Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh is a flavorful, aromatic curry that combines tender lamb with a rich, spiced tomato-based sauce. Originating from Kashmiri cuisine, Rogan Josh is known for its bold flavors and vibrant color. This dish is perfect for curry lovers and can be enjoyed with rice, naan, or your favorite sides for a comforting, hearty meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Tender, Flavorful Lamb: The slow-cooked lamb becomes tender and absorbs the spices beautifully.
- Bold Spices: A mix of spices adds depth and authenticity to the curry.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Great for Gatherings: Impress guests with this classic, aromatic curry.
What is Lamb Rogan Josh?
Lamb Rogan Josh is a traditional Kashmiri curry made with lamb, yogurt, and a blend of spices, slow-cooked to create a flavorful sauce. This dish is known for its deep color and rich taste, often spiced with cloves, cardamom, and Kashmiri chili powder.
Other Jamie Oliver Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Prawn and Pea
- Jamie Oliver Chicken And Cannellini Beans
- Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Juicy Charred Chicken
Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh Ingredients
- 800g lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- 200g natural yogurt
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander, for garnish
Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or Kashmiri chili powder for authenticity)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 4 cloves
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh
1. Prepare the Spice Mix
- In a small bowl, mix the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika (or Kashmiri chili powder), and garam masala. Set aside.
2. Sear the Lamb
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chunks in batches, searing on all sides until browned. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Ginger
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and golden. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Spices
- Add the prepared spice mix, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to bloom the spices and release their aromas.
5. Add Tomato Paste and Chopped Tomatoes
- Stir in the tomato paste, then add the canned chopped tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the Lamb and Simmer
- Return the seared lamb to the pot, stirring well to coat it with the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick. Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors are well combined.
7. Finish with Yogurt
- Once the lamb is tender, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the yogurt for a creamy, slightly tangy finish. Adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the Lamb Rogan Josh with fresh coriander and serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti.
What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh
- Basmati Rice: Fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up the rich curry sauce.
- Naan Bread: Warm, soft naan is ideal for scooping up the curry.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt and cucumber raita balances the spice.
- Pickles or Chutney: Add a tangy contrast with mango chutney or lime pickle.
- Fresh Salad: Serve with a side of chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and onions for freshness.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh
- Choose the Right Cut: Lamb shoulder or leg works best for slow cooking and becomes tender as it absorbs the spices.
- Bloom the Spices: Cooking the spices in oil before adding liquids releases their flavors fully.
- Control the Spice Level: Add green chilies or adjust the paprika for desired heat.
- Stir in Yogurt Carefully: Remove the pot from heat before adding yogurt to prevent it from curdling.
- Simmer Slowly: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and makes the lamb tender.
Variations of Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh
- Vegetarian Rogan Josh: Substitute lamb with vegetables like potatoes, cauliflower, and peas.
- Chicken Rogan Josh: Use boneless chicken thighs instead of lamb for a quicker cooking option.
- Creamy Coconut Twist: Replace yogurt with coconut milk for a dairy-free, creamy curry.
- Spicy Rogan Josh: Increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of red chili powder for extra heat.
- Herb-Infused Rogan Josh: Add fresh mint or cilantro for a refreshing herbal twist.
How to Store Leftover Jamie Oliver Lamb, Rogan Josh?
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later: Lamb Rogan Josh freezes well. Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Lamb, Rogan Josh?
- Stovetop Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of water if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.
- Microwave Option: For individual portions, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of lamb in Rogan Josh?
Yes, Rogan Josh can be made with chicken, beef, or even vegetables as a substitute for lamb. Chicken thighs work well for a quicker version, while beef will need similar slow-cooking for tenderness.
How do I prevent yogurt from curdling in Lamb Rogan Josh?
To prevent curdling, remove the curry from the heat before adding yogurt, then stir it in slowly. Using room-temperature yogurt can also help reduce the chance of curdling.
What spices can I substitute if I don’t have garam masala?
If you don’t have garam masala, use a combination of ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and a pinch of clove or allspice to achieve a similar flavor.
Can I make Lamb Rogan Josh in a slow cooker?
Yes, Lamb Rogan Josh can be made in a slow cooker. Sear the lamb and sauté the onions and spices first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh is a flavorful, aromatic dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with family and friends. With tender lamb, warming spices, and a rich sauce, this curry is a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold, comforting flavors. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
PrintJamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Lamb Rogan Josh is a traditional Kashmiri curry made with lamb, yogurt, and a blend of spices, slow-cooked to create a flavorful sauce. This dish is known for its deep color and rich taste, often spiced with cloves, cardamom, and Kashmiri chili powder.
Ingredients
- 800g lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
- 1–2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- 200g natural yogurt
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh coriander, for garnish
Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (or Kashmiri chili powder for authenticity)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
- 4 cloves
Instructions
1. Prepare the Spice Mix
-
- In a small bowl, mix the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, paprika (or Kashmiri chili powder), and garam masala. Set aside.
2. Sear the Lamb
-
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chunks in batches, searing on all sides until browned. Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions, Garlic, and Ginger
-
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened and golden. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Spices
-
- Add the prepared spice mix, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to bloom the spices and release their aromas.
5. Add Tomato Paste and Chopped Tomatoes
-
- Stir in the tomato paste, then add the canned chopped tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Add the Lamb and Simmer
-
- Return the seared lamb to the pot, stirring well to coat it with the sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a splash of water if the sauce seems too thick. Cover and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the flavors are well combined.
7. Finish with Yogurt
-
- Once the lamb is tender, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the yogurt for a creamy, slightly tangy finish. Adjust seasoning if needed.
8. Garnish and Serve
-
- Garnish the Lamb Rogan Josh with fresh coriander and serve hot with basmati rice, naan, or roti.