Indulge in the rich flavors of tender lamb shanks cooked in a fragrant blend of spices with this mouthwatering Rogan Josh recipe. This traditional Kashmiri dish is known for its aromatic spices and deep red color. The slow-cooked lamb shanks in a thick gravy will melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress your guests with a hearty and flavorsome dish. Serve it with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 lamb shanks
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat oil in a large oven-safe dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the lamb shanks and sear them until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the onions with the spices.
- Return the lamb shanks to the pot and pour in the diced tomatoes and broth. Stir in the tomato paste and season with salt to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Let the lamb shanks cook in the oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily.
- Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven and stir in the yogurt. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve the Rogan Josh lamb shanks hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Interesting Facts
Rogan Josh is a classic dish from the Kashmiri cuisine in India.
Traditionally, this dish is made with goat meat, but lamb shanks make a delicious alternative.
The word 'Rogan' means oil or ghee, while 'Josh' means hot or passionate, referring to the deep red color and spiciness of the dish.
This slow-cooked dish allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a rich and aromatic curry.