Rajasthani Laal Maas: Mutton in Red Spicy Gravy
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of Rajasthan with this exquisite recipe for Laal Maas, a mutton dish enveloped in a fiery, aromatic red gravy. Known for its vibrant color and robust flavors, this dish not only embodies the essence of Rajasthani cuisine but also serves as a centerpiece for special occasions and festive celebrations. Whether paired with soft Phulkas, fluffy steamed rice, or the traditional Baati, this dish promises to be a showstopper at your dinner table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kashmiri dry red chillies (soaked in water) | 10 (soaked for at least 20 minutes) |
| Mutton (cut into 1-inch pieces) | 500 grams |
| Curd (Dahi / Yogurt) | 1/2 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 2 teaspoons |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger garlic paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Ghee (clarified butter) | As required |
| Brown cardamom (Badi Elaichi) | 2 |
| Green cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 3 |
| Cinnamon stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Cloves (Laung) | 3 |
| Bay leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 3 |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh coriander leaves (Dhania) | Few sprigs |
| Charcoal pieces | 3 |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 grams |
| Fat | 35 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 5 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | Varies with salt |
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 10 minutes |
| Cooking | 40 minutes |
| Total | 50 minutes |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Red Chili Paste:
Begin by adding water to a heavy-bottomed pan. Introduce the soaked Kashmiri dry red chillies along with cumin seeds, brown and green cardamoms, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf into the water. Allow the mixture to boil, and once the red chillies soften, turn off the flame. After it cools slightly, retain the water and blend the ingredients into a fine paste using a mixer grinder. -
-
Marinate the Mutton:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mutton pieces, yogurt, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, one tablespoon of ginger garlic paste, and the prepared red chili paste. Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly, then cover the bowl and refrigerate for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld. -
Sauté the Onions:
Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn light brown. Incorporate the remaining ginger garlic paste and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma. -
Cook the Mutton:
Add the marinated mutton to the pan with the sautéed onions. Increase the heat and sauté for about two to three minutes to sear the meat. Then, add salt to taste and the reserved water from boiling the red chillies. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you prefer a thinner gravy, feel free to add more water as needed. -
Infuse with Charcoal:
Once the mutton is tender and cooked through, light a piece of charcoal and place it in a small metal bowl. Set this bowl in the center of the pan, add a few cloves to the charcoal, drizzle some ghee over it, and quickly cover the pan with a lid to trap the smoky aroma. Let it sit for two to three minutes. -
Finish the Dish:
After the resting time, remove the charcoal bowl from the pan. Return the curry to the heat and sprinkle in the garam masala powder, giving it a quick stir to combine the flavors. -
Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the fragrant Laal Maas to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with Phulkas, steamed rice, or Baati, allowing your guests to indulge in the authentic taste of Rajasthan.
This Rajasthani Laal Maas recipe not only highlights the robust flavors of traditional Indian spices but also showcases the culinary heritage of Rajasthan, making it a delightful addition to your dinner repertoire. Enjoy the vibrant spices and tender mutton that bring this dish to life, making it perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations.
