Recipe - Kashmiri Mutton Rogan Josh

Kashmiri Mutton Rogan Josh is a traditional and flavorsome dish originating from the beautiful valley of Kashmir in India. This aromatic and rich curry is made with succulent mutton pieces cooked in a blend of aromatic spices, yogurt, and saffron-infused gravy. Not only does it satisfy your taste buds, but it also offers several health benefits due to the inclusion of wholesome ingredients. In this article, we will take you through the preparation and cooking process of this delectable dish while highlighting its nutritional advantages.

Preparation time: Approximately 30 minutes
Cooking time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people

Ingredients

1 kg mutton, cut into pieces
4 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee (clarified butter)
2 large onions, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 teaspoons red chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground fennel seeds
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed
4 cloves
2 bay leaves
1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
A pinch of saffron strands, soaked in warm milk
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Method

- Heat oil or ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the mutton pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides.
- In a separate bowl, mix red chili powder, turmeric powder, ground fennel seeds, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, crushed cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaves.
- Add this spice mixture to the pan, stirring well to coat the mutton evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low and add whisked yogurt to the pan, stirring continuously for a few minutes.
- Cover the pan and simmer the mutton for about 1 hour or until it becomes tender.
- Once the mutton is cooked, add the saffron strands soaked in milk, stirring gently.
- Season with salt according to your taste and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Health Benefits:

Protein-rich: Mutton is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
Iron and zinc: Mutton contains iron and zinc, which are vital for maintaining healthy blood circulation and boosting the immune system.
Anti-inflammatory spices: The blend of spices used in Kashmiri Rogan Josh, such as ginger, turmeric, and cinnamon, possess anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in reducing inflammation in the body.
Antioxidants: Saffron, a key ingredient in Rogan Josh, is rich in antioxidants that protect the body against cell damage caused by free radicals.
Probiotics: Yogurt, another ingredient in this dish, provides probiotics that promote gut health and digestion.