Name: Mutton Curry Recipe: Rich and Spicy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 200 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs mutton (goat or lamb); 2 medium onions (chopped); 2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1- inch piece of ginger (grated); 2 medium tomatoes (pureed); 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tsp ground coriander; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp turmeric powder; 1 tsp red chili powder; 1 tsp garam masala; 1/2 tsp kosher salt; 2 cups water or mutton broth; 2 green cardamom pods; 1 cinnamon stick; 2 cloves; 1 bay leaf; Optional: Chopped cilantro (slivered almonds); Suggested Pairings: Basmati rice (mango lassi)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Mutton Curry is a classic Indian main dish, perfect for family dinners, festive gatherings, or spicy comfort meals. This rich, aromatic curry, featuring tender mutton in a bold, spice-infused gravy, delivers a warm, satisfying flavor with a luscious, thick texture. Presented in a white ceramic bowl, optionally garnished with chopped cilantro or slivered almonds, this Mutton Curry recipe offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple, stovetop version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings bold warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Mutton Curry:

2 lbs mutton (goat or lamb, cut into 1.5-inch pieces)
2 medium onions, finely chopped
2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 medium tomatoes, pureed (or 1 cup canned tomato puree)
1 cup plain yogurt, whisked
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp kosher salt
2 cups water or mutton broth
2 green cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick (2-inch)
2 cloves
1 bay leaf

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped cilantro, slivered almonds
Suggested Accompaniments: Basmati rice, naan, cucumber raita
Suggested Pairings: Mango lassi, chai tea
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic bowl
Suggested Equipment: Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, blender (for tomatoes), wooden spoon, cutting board, knife, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Marinate Mutton: In a bowl, combine mutton with yogurt, turmeric, and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix well and marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight in the fridge for best results).
Cook Aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add onions and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden brown. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in coriander, cumin, chili powder, and remaining salt. Cook for 1 minute. Add tomato puree and cook for 5–7 minutes until the oil separates.
Cook Mutton: Add marinated mutton (with yogurt) to the pot. Stir well to coat with spices. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mutton browns slightly.
Simmer: Add water or broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until mutton is tender. Add more water if needed to maintain a thick gravy.
Finish and Adjust: Stir in garam masala. Taste and adjust with salt, chili powder, or garam masala for balanced flavor.
Serve: Remove whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, bay leaf). Transfer the Mutton Curry to a white ceramic bowl. Optionally garnish with chopped cilantro or slivered almonds. Serve with basmati rice, naan, cucumber raita, mango lassi, or chai tea.

Tips for Better Mutton Curry

Marinate mutton overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Taste the curry before serving to balance spicy, tangy, and savory flavors; adjust cautiously.
Cook onions until golden for a rich, sweet base.
Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
Present in a white ceramic bowl to highlight the rich gravy and vibrant garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance; refrigerate and reheat gently to enhance flavors.
For tender mutton, simmer and check doneness with a fork.
Enhance aesthetic: Garnish with cilantro for freshness or almonds for a nutty crunch.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Mutton Curry: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth is gluten-free certified.
Dairy-Free Mutton Curry: Replace yogurt with coconut milk; use oil instead of ghee.
Spicy Mutton Curry: Increase chili powder to 2 tsp or add 2 slit green chilies during cooking.
Mild Mutton Curry: Reduce chili powder to 1/2 tsp and omit cayenne.
Coconut Mutton Curry: Add 1 cup of coconut milk with the water for a creamier texture.
Vegetarian Mutton Curry: Replace mutton with jackfruit or mushrooms; adjust cooking time to 30–40 minutes.
Kashmiri Mutton Curry: Add 1 tsp fennel powder and 1/4 tsp saffron threads for a fragrant twist.
Instant Pot Mutton Curry: After sautéing in the Instant Pot, pressure cook on high for 25 minutes with a natural release.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in a saucepan or microwave, stirring occasionally.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve texture.
Serve hot for the best rich, aromatic flavor.
Use as a main dish with rice or bread for a complete meal.
Pair with mango lassi or chai tea to complement the spicy, bold flavors.
Present in a white ceramic bowl with garnishes for an appetizing, vibrant charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 6 servings (1 cup each, without garnishes):

Calories: 380 kcal
Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 460mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 30g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 20% Daily Value
Calcium: 8% Daily Value
Iron: 20% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (dairy-free options may reduce cholesterol). Moderate in calories; enjoy with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Mutton Curry recipe delivers a rich, spicy main dish perfect for any occasion. It transforms simple ingredients into an Indian classic. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The tender mutton and aromatic gravy delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its crowd-pleasing boldness.