Masala Gosht (Lamb Chop Curry)
Description: Dive into the bold and flavorful world of Masala Gosht, a luscious Lamb Chop Curry that packs a medium heat. With tender lamb chops cooked in a medley of aromatic spices and a rich tomato-yoghurt base, this dish is a perfect blend of traditional flavors and modern-day comfort. Ideal for any meal, Masala Gosht serves 6 and is a hearty dish that’s sure to impress!
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Serves: 6
Views: 96,424
Rating: 3.3/5 (112 votes)
Dietary Info: Gluten-Free
Ingredients Table:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rapeseed oil | 1 tbsp |
| Lamb chops (trimmed) | 800g – 1kg |
| Large onions, peeled and roughly diced | 2 |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 3cm piece |
| Garlic cloves, peeled | 6 |
| Chilli powder | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Cumin seeds, crushed | 1 heaped tsp |
| Coriander seeds, crushed | 2 tsp |
| Kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 2 tsp |
| Salt (or to taste) | 1 tsp |
| Plum tomatoes | 200g |
| Greek yoghurt (beaten) | 145ml |
| Fresh coriander, chopped | Large handful |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
| Green chillies, sliced | 2 |
Allergen Information:
- Contains Dairy: Greek yoghurt is used in this recipe, making it unsuitable for individuals who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy.
- No Gluten: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those following a gluten-free diet.
Dietary Preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Enjoy the full flavors of this dish without any gluten concerns. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Non-Vegetarian: This recipe contains lamb, making it suitable for meat eaters.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Onions
Start by blitzing the onions in a blender until they’re finely chopped. The smoother the blend, the more flavorful the base will be.
Step 2: Cooking the Onions
Heat the rapeseed oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook them for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften. Reduce the heat and let the onions cook further until they begin to brown. If they start sticking to the pan, don’t hesitate to add a small splash of water and continue cooking for approximately 20 minutes. The goal is to let the onions caramelize, building a rich flavor base.
Step 3: Add Ginger, Garlic, and Green Chilies
In the meantime, blitz the ginger, garlic, and green chillies in a blender. Once the onions have browned beautifully, add this aromatic mixture to the pan. Stir and cook for another 5-6 minutes until the garlic softens and turns fragrant.
Step 4: Searing the Lamb Chops
Add the lamb chops to the pan, searing each side until browned. This step is crucial as it helps lock in the flavors, ensuring the lamb absorbs all the spices during the cooking process.
Step 5: Tomato Blend
Using a stick blender, blitz the plum tomatoes until smooth, and then add them to the pan. This will form the flavorful curry base.
Step 6: Spices and Seasoning
In a pestle and mortar, crush the cumin and coriander seeds until aromatic, then stir them into the pan along with the turmeric, chilli powder, Kasoori methi, and salt. These spices are what give Masala Gosht its signature flavor. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, and once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low.
Step 7: Simmer the Curry
Cover the pan with a lid and let the curry simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the lamb to absorb all the spices and become tender.
Step 8: Add the Greek Yoghurt
Gradually add the beaten Greek yoghurt, a tablespoon at a time, stirring in between each addition to ensure it blends well into the sauce. Continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing the lamb to become tender and the curry to thicken to your desired consistency.
Step 9: Adjust the Gravy
If you prefer a more gravy-like consistency, feel free to add a little hot water to the curry at this stage. Stir in the garam masala and give it one final mix.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander over the dish to add a burst of freshness and color. Serve your Masala Gosht with steamed basmati rice, naan, or any bread of your choice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Advice:
- For a richer flavor: You can substitute rapeseed oil with ghee for a more authentic taste.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier dish, add extra green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers: Masala Gosht tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For tender lamb: Slow cooking is key! Letting the lamb cook on a low simmer allows it to become incredibly tender and flavorful.
Conclusion:
Masala Gosht is a mouthwatering dish that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this lamb chop curry offers a satisfying balance of spices and rich flavors. With its gluten-free nature, it’s suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. The process might take some time, but the end result is worth every minute spent. Enjoy the aromatic experience that is Masala Gosht—each bite is a journey into the heart of flavorful Indian cuisine.
