Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt is a richly flavored dish that brings the warmth of Indian cuisine into your home. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, this recipe showcases tender lamb infused with aromatic spices and a creamy yogurt sauce. The unique blend of Kashmiri chili gives this dish its vibrant color and a mild heat that appeals to many palates.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible.
- Tender Meat: Slow cooking ensures the lamb becomes incredibly tender and juicy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, naan, or even as a filling for wraps.
- Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Creating the perfect Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt requires some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or heavy pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or heavy pot: Ideal for slow cooking, providing even heat distribution for tender meat.
- Sharp knife: Ensures quick and precise cutting of ingredients, making prep time efficient.

Ingredients
For the Lamb Dish
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 green cardamom pods
How to Make Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by preparing your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
– Cut the lamb into chunks if not already done.
– Slice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In your Dutch oven, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat.
– Add the sliced onion and sauté until golden brown.
– Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Brown the Lamb
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add lamb chunks to the pot in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Brown all sides of the lamb pieces for about 5–7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Spices and Yogurt
- Lower the heat back to medium. Sprinkle in Kashmiri chili powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom pods.
- Mix well to coat the lamb evenly.
- Gradually add the whisked yogurt while stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
Step 5: Slow Cook
- Cover your pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 2–3 hours until lamb is tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking; add water if necessary to maintain moisture.
Enjoy your Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt alongside rice or bread for a delightful meal!
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Serving your Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt can elevate the experience, making it a delight for both the eyes and the palate. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.
Classic Rice
- Serve with basmati rice for a classic pairing that absorbs the rich flavors of the curry.
Naan Bread
- Warm naan bread is perfect for scooping up the lamb and sauce, adding a comforting texture.
Fresh Salad
- A simple cucumber and tomato salad provides a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the dish.
Raita
- Pair with yogurt-based raita to cool down the heat from the Kashmiri chili, enhancing every bite.
Pickles
- Indian pickles add an extra punch of flavor, balancing well with the slow-cooked lamb.
Chutney
- A side of mint or coriander chutney offers a zesty kick that complements the richness of the curry.
How to Perfect Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail and some helpful techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your lamb rogan josh turns out beautifully.
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Choose quality meat – Select fresh lamb shoulder for tender chunks that will melt in your mouth after slow cooking.
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Marinate overnight – Letting the lamb marinate in yogurt and spices overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
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Control heat levels – Cook on low heat to allow flavors to meld, ensuring a deeply aromatic dish without tough meat.
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Use whole spices – Incorporate whole cardamom pods for a more robust flavor profile; strain them before serving if desired.
Best Side Dishes for Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
To round out your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt.
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Jeera Rice – Fragrant cumin-flavored rice that complements the rich lamb curry perfectly.
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Aloo Gobi – A spiced potato and cauliflower dish adds variety without overshadowing the main course.
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Palak Paneer – Creamy spinach with paneer provides a rich contrast in texture and flavor.
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Chickpea Salad – A light salad made of chickpeas, herbs, and lemon adds freshness to each bite.
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Vegetable Biryani – This aromatic rice dish filled with vegetables creates an exquisite harmony alongside lamb rogan josh.
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Methi Thepla – These spiced flatbreads infused with fenugreek offer a unique twist that pairs well with rich curries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slow-cooked dishes can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes when making Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt and tips on how to avoid them.
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Skipping the marinating step: Not allowing the lamb to marinate in yogurt and spices can lead to less flavor. Always let the meat rest in the marinade for at least 1 hour or overnight for better results.
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Overcrowding the cooking pot: Filling the pot too full can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for the lamb chunks to cook evenly; consider cooking in batches if necessary.
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Neglecting to sear the meat: Searing adds depth of flavor through caramelization. Take a few extra minutes to brown the lamb before adding it to your slow cooker.
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Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using old spices can dull your dish’s flavors. Always check that your spices, especially Kashmiri chili powder, are fresh for optimal taste.
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Not adjusting seasoning later: If you skip tasting and adjusting toward the end, you might miss out on balancing flavors. Before serving, always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on low-medium in a pan, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this recipe to help you make it perfectly.
Can I use other meats in Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt?
Yes! You can substitute lamb with beef or chicken, but adjust cooking times accordingly since they may vary.
How spicy is Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt?
Kashmiri chili provides a mild heat but a rich color. You can increase spiciness by adding more chili powder if desired.
What sides pair well with Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt?
Serve it with rice, naan, or a refreshing cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
How long does it take to prepare Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt?
Total preparation time is around 15-20 minutes, while slow cooking takes about 6-8 hours depending on your cooker settings.
Final Thoughts
This Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt is not only flavorful but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spice levels to suit your taste. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings—give it a try!
Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt
Indulge in the rich flavors of Slow-Cooked Lamb Rogan Josh with Kashmiri Chili and Yogurt, a dish that brings the essence of Indian cuisine right to your dining table. This aromatic lamb curry features tender chunks of meat slow-cooked to perfection, infused with a vibrant blend of spices including earthy cumin and fragrant cardamom. The addition of Kashmiri chili imparts a mild heat and stunning color to the dish, while the creamy yogurt sauce adds a luscious finish. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this recipe is both impressive and easy to prepare.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 large onion, finely sliced
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 green cardamom pods
Instructions
- Start by preparing all ingredients: cut lamb into chunks, slice onion, mince garlic, and grate ginger.
- In a Dutch oven, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until golden brown, then add garlic and ginger for another minute.
- Increase heat to medium-high and brown the lamb in batches for about 5–7 minutes on all sides.
- Reduce heat to medium and add Kashmiri chili powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom pods; mix well.
- Gradually stir in whisked yogurt until well combined.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours until lamb is tender; stir occasionally and add water if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 92mg
