Kashmiri Rogan Josh – Aromatic Mutton Curry

 Kashmiri Rogan Josh – Aromatic Mutton Curry

Kashmiri Rogan Josh is a famous dish from Kashmiri cuisine made with tender mutton cooked slowly in a fragrant blend of spices. The curry is known for its rich color, aromatic flavor and warming spices.

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan or roti.

Ingredients

- 750 g mutton, bone-in

- 4 tablespoons mustard oil or cooking oil

- 1 large onion, finely sliced

- 1 tablespoon ginger paste

- 1 tablespoon garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 2 bay leaves

- 1-inch cinnamon stick

- 4 green cardamoms

- 3 cloves

- 2 black cardamoms

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 2 teaspoons Kashmiri red chilli powder

- 1 teaspoon fennel powder

- 1 teaspoon ginger powder

- ½ teaspoon cumin powder

- Salt to taste

- 2½ cups hot water

- Fresh coriander, for garnish

Method

1. Prepare the Mutton

Wash the mutton and drain it well.

Pat it dry and keep it aside.

2. Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot.

Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cinnamon, green cardamom, black cardamom and cloves.

Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.

3. Brown the Mutton

Add the mutton pieces and cook over medium-high heat.

Stir frequently and cook until the meat develops a light golden-brown color.

4. Add the Aromatics

Add ginger paste and garlic paste.

Cook for 2–3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Add turmeric, Kashmiri chilli powder, fennel powder, ginger powder, cumin powder and salt.

Mix well.

5. Slow Cook

Pour in the hot water and bring the curry to a boil.

Reduce the heat, cover and cook for about 45–60 minutes, or until the mutton becomes tender.

Stir occasionally and add a little more hot water if required.

6. Finish the Curry

Once the mutton is completely cooked and the gravy becomes rich and aromatic, check the seasoning.

Simmer uncovered for another 5–10 minutes if you want a thicker gravy.

Garnish with fresh coriander.

Serving Suggestions

Kashmiri Rogan Josh tastes delicious with:

- Steamed basmati rice

- Kashmiri pulao

- Naan

- Roti

- Jeera rice

Tips

- Use bone-in mutton for a richer curry.

- Cook the meat slowly for tender and flavorful results.

- Kashmiri chilli powder provides color with moderate heat.

- Avoid adding too much water at once; the gravy should remain rich.

- Allow the curry to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Final Thoughts

Kashmiri Rogan Josh is a deeply aromatic mutton curry that showcases the distinctive spices and cooking traditions of Kashmir.

Serve it hot with steamed rice or naan for a hearty Indian meal.