Hyderabadi Laziz Lamb Handi Recipe
A quintessential royal dish hailing from Hyderabad, Hyderabadi Laziz Lamb Handi is a true culinary masterpiece that reflects the richness of Indian cuisine. This hearty and flavorsome lamb preparation uses tender lamb ribs simmered with a symphony of aromatic spices, luscious cream, tangy tomatoes, caramelized onions, and pure ghee, cooked patiently in a traditional handi. The slow-cooking process in a handi enhances the dish’s depth of flavor while rendering the lamb irresistibly succulent, melting in your mouth with every bite. If you are someone who enjoys a touch of heat, this recipe allows you to elevate the spice levels by adding extra red chilies. Serve this decadent lamb curry with Tawa Paratha or Jeera Rice for an indulgent weekend lunch or dinner that will leave your family and guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of ingredients needed for the Hyderabadi Laziz Lamb Handi:
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lamb Ribs | 700 grams |
| Ghee | 3 teaspoons |
| Curd (Yogurt) | 5 teaspoons |
| Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder | 4 teaspoons |
| Ginger Paste | 5 teaspoons |
| Garlic | 10 cloves (paste) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (sliced) | 6 medium |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato Paste | 2 teaspoons |
| Fresh Tomatoes | 3 (chopped) |
| Fresh Cream | 3 teaspoons |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 1/2 cups |
| Coriander Leaves | Few sprigs (chopped) |
Preparation Time
- Marination Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~ 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sodium | ~ 500 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on serving size and ingredients used.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare the delectable Hyderabadi Laziz Lamb Handi:
1. Marinate the Lamb
- In a large bowl, combine the lamb ribs with a generous sprinkle of salt, Kashmiri red chili powder, half the quantity of ginger paste, and the curd (yogurt).
- Mix well to ensure the lamb is coated evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Cook the Lamb Initially
- Heat a traditional handi or a heavy-bottomed copper vessel on medium-high flame.
- Add ghee and sauté the garlic paste for about 1 minute until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the marinated lamb ribs to the handi and cook for 5 minutes on high flame, stirring occasionally. This process will sear the meat and lock in its juices.
- Once browned, remove the lamb ribs and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Onion and Spice Base
- In the same handi, add oil and the sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they turn golden and begin to caramelize, which should take about 7–10 minutes.
- Add the remaining ginger paste and continue frying for another minute.
- Stir in red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder, ensuring that the spices are well combined with the onions.
- Add the tomato paste and the chopped tomatoes. Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes on medium heat until the tomatoes break down completely and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
4. Simmer the Lamb
- Return the seared lamb ribs to the handi and mix them well with the spice-onion base.
- Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water and season with additional salt as needed.
- Cover the handi with a tight-fitting lid and let the lamb simmer on low heat for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the lamb for tenderness. If it requires more time, continue to cook until the meat becomes tender and falls off the bone easily.
5. Adjust the Gravy
- Once the lamb is cooked through, check the consistency of the gravy. If there is excess liquid, increase the flame to medium-high and let the gravy thicken until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finish with Aromatics and Cream
- Stir in garam masala powder, lemon juice, and fresh cream to give the dish a rich and luxurious finish.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Serve
- Your Hyderabadi Laziz Lamb Handi is now ready to be served. Pair it with freshly made Tawa Paratha or fragrant Jeera Rice to fully savor the richness of this dish.
Chef’s Tips
- Handi Cooking: Cooking in a handi imparts a rustic, smoky flavor that cannot be replicated in regular pots. If you don’t have a handi, use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for similar results.
- Marination: Allowing the lamb to marinate longer (up to 2 hours) enhances tenderness and flavor.
- Spice Level: To increase the heat, add green chilies or extra red chili powder during the cooking process.
- Gravy Thickness: Adjust the consistency of the gravy according to preference. For a drier version, reduce the liquid further.
Serving Suggestions
- Tawa Paratha: This flaky and buttery Indian flatbread perfectly complements the rich and spicy gravy.
- Jeera Rice: Simple cumin-flavored basmati rice provides a light and fragrant accompaniment that balances the dish.
- Naan: Soft, oven-baked naan is another classic pairing with Laziz Lamb Handi.
Final Thoughts
The Hyderabadi Laziz Lamb Handi is a celebration of flavors, textures, and tradition, making it an ideal dish for festive occasions, special gatherings, or indulgent family meals. Each tender bite of lamb, soaked in the aromatic spices and creamy gravy, transports you to the regal kitchens of Hyderabad. This recipe ensures not just a meal but a rich culinary experience that satisfies the soul.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to an authentic Indian feast, this dish, paired with Tawa Paratha or Jeera Rice, is guaranteed to be the star of the table. So, roll up your sleeves, slow-cook the lamb, and relish the taste of royal indulgence!
