How to Make a Delicious Punjabi Mutton Curry

Looking to spice up your dinner with a rich, flavorful Punjabi mutton curry? This hearty recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family meal. Let's dive into the detailed steps and tips to make the best Punjabi mutton curry in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

1 kg mutton bone-in pieces 1 cup yogurt 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste 2 teaspoons red chili powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 tablespoon coriander powder Salt to taste 2 tablespoons lemon juice

For the Curry:

3 tablespoons oil (mustard oil or vegetable oil) 2 large onions, finely sliced 2-3 green chilies, slit 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 2 tomatoes, pureed 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1-2 bay leaves 4-5 green cardamom pods 4-5 cloves 1-inch cinnamon stick 1 cup water or as needed Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Mutton

Begin by preparing the marinate. In a large bowl, mix the mutton with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, salt, and lemon juice. Stir well and cover the mixture. Marinate the mutton for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight in the refrigerator. This step allows the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing its flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Curry

Once the mutton is marinated, heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, green cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a minute until they release their fragrance. Next, add the sliced onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Incorporate the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears. Stir in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Mutton

Now, add the marinated mutton to the pot, making sure it's well coated in the spices. Cook on high heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mutton is browned. Pour in water (or as needed), bring to a boil, and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the mutton is tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Final Touches

To finish, check the seasoning and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for an extra burst of flavor. Your Punjabi mutton curry is now ready to serve!

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Punjabi mutton curry with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for any meal.

Tips

For Extra Flavor: Stir a teaspoon of garam masala towards the end of cooking for an authentic touch. Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a thicker curry, cook it uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce the liquid.

With these simple steps, you can create a truly delightful Punjabi mutton curry. Enjoy the rich flavors and aromas in your own kitchen, and impress your family and friends with your cooking skills. Happy cooking!