A warm bowl of lamb curry brings comfort as few other dishes can. Jamie Oliver’s style keeps things simple while packing the curry with deep, rich flavour. Tender lamb pieces slow-cook in a fragrant blend of spices, tomatoes, garlic, and ginger, creating a meal that feels homely yet special. This recipe is easy to follow and turns everyday ingredients into something full of aroma, taste, and satisfying warmth.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Brings authentic, rich flavour – The spice blend creates a depth of flavour that develops beautifully as it cooks.
Uses simple and accessible ingredients – You don’t need anything fancy to achieve restaurant-quality curry.
Perfect for weekend cooking – Slow cooking the lamb makes it tender, juicy, and full of character.
Versatile serving options – Pairs well with rice, naan, roti, or even mashed potatoes.
Great for leftovers – The flavours get even better the next day as the spices settle and mature.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Curry?

Jamie Oliver Lamb Curry is a simple, hearty lamb dish cooked with onions, tomatoes, spices, garlic, and ginger. The lamb simmers until tender and coated in a thick, aromatic curry sauce that’s full of bold and comforting flavours.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

Jamie Oliver Lamb Curry Ingredients

800g lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
2 onions, finely chopped
3 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garam masala
1–2 green chillies, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup water or stock
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh coriander for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Curry Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, golden, and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Stir in the garlic, ginger, and chilies. Cook for 1–2 minutes to release their aroma and deepen the flavor base.

Step 3: Cook the Spices

Sprinkle curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and garam masala over the mixture. Toast the spices briefly to bring out their natural oils.

Step 4: Add the Lamb Pieces

Place the lamb chunks into the pot, coating them in the spice mixture. Brown each side lightly to seal in flavor.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Liquid

Add chopped tomatoes and water or stock. Stir well until everything mixes into a rich base.

Step 6: Slow Simmer the Curry

Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is soft and tender.

Step 7: Adjust and Garnish

Taste, adjust salt or spices, and simmer uncovered if you want a thicker sauce. Garnish with fresh coriander.

What to Serve Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Curry

Serve it with warm basmati rice – The fluffy rice balances the richness of the curry.
Pair it with homemade naan – Soft naan soaks up the curry sauce perfectly.
Try it with roti or chapati – A lighter option for everyday meals.
Enjoy with mashed potatoes – The creamy mash complements the spicy curry well.
Add a fresh side salad – Cucumber, onion, and lemon help cut through the richness.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Curry

Choose lamb shoulder – It becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
Toast your spices – This unlocks a richer, deeper flavor in the curry.
Simmer low and slow – This is the secret to melt-in-the-mouth lamb.
Add a splash of yogurt – It gives the curry a creamy, balanced finish.
Rest the curry before serving – Allowing it to sit for 10 minutes enhances the overall flavor.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Lamb Curry

Make it creamy – Stir in coconut milk during the last 20 minutes.
Create a spicy version – Add extra chilies or a spoon of chilli paste.
Try a tomato-free curry – Replace tomatoes with yogurt or coconut milk.
Use mutton instead of lamb – Takes longer to cook but offers deeper flavor.
Add vegetables – Potatoes, peas, or carrots turn it into a complete one-pot meal.

How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Lamb Curry?

Let the curry cool fully before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The flavor often becomes even better as the spices settle overnight.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Curry Recipe Leftovers?

Warm gently on the stovetop – Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens.
Use the microwave in short bursts – Heat in intervals to avoid drying out the lamb.
Reheat in the oven – Cover with foil and warm at a low temperature until hot throughout.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 430
Protein: 32g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fibre: 3g
Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

How do I make lamb soft and tender for curry?

Lamb becomes tender when cooked low and slow for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Using lamb shoulder helps because it has more fat and connective tissue, which softens during long simmering. Keeping the pot covered and maintaining low heat ensures the meat stays juicy instead of drying out.

Can I use coconut milk in Jamie Oliver Lamb Curry?

Yes, coconut milk can be used to make a creamier and milder curry. Add it during the final 20 minutes of cooking so it blends smoothly with the spices without curdling. This variation works well if you prefer a richer sauce.

What is the best cut of lamb for curry?

Lamb shoulder is the ideal cut because it becomes tender with slow cooking. It has enough fat to stay moist and absorbs spices better than leaner cuts. You can also use leg of lamb, but it may require a bit more cooking time to soften fully.

Can I make this lamb curry ahead of time?

Lamb curry tastes even better when made ahead because the spices deepen overnight. Store it in an airtight container, refrigerate, and reheat gently the next day. The flavors blend beautifully as it rests, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Lamb Curry brings rich flavor and simple cooking together in a way that suits any home kitchen. It’s warm, satisfying, and easy to adapt to your taste. Try it once, and it may become a regular comfort dish in your weekly meals.