🥘 What Is Rogan Josh, and Why You’ll Love It
Ever had one of those meals that hits you with bold flavor in the first bite and leaves you warm and happy by the last spoonful? That’s Rogan Josh for you. Hailing from the beautiful region of Kashmir, Rogan Josh brings together tender lamb and a luxurious blend of aromatic spices and yogurt—each bite feels like pure indulgence.
It’s like a cozy blanket of flavor wrapped around juicy meat — total soul food.
This dish doesn’t just taste great; it looks amazing too. That rich, red hue comes from Kashmiri chili—not too spicy, but full of color and taste.
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need (And Their Budget)
Here’s everything to toss into your pot for a traditional Rogan Josh:
| Ingredient | Amount | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Lamb (boneless cubes) | 1 lb (450g) | $7.00 |
| Yogurt (plain) | 1/2 cup | $0.60 |
| Onion (finely sliced) | 2 medium | $0.80 |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | $0.20 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp | $0.30 |
| Kashmiri red chili powder | 1 tbsp | $0.20 |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp | $0.10 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | $0.10 |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp | $0.15 |
| Ground turmeric | 1/2 tsp | $0.05 |
| Salt | To taste | $0.05 |
| Vegetable oil | 3 tbsp | $0.30 |
| Water or broth | 1 cup | $0.10 |
| Total Cost Estimate (Serves 4) | $10.95 | |
🔪 How to Make Rogan Josh at Home
Step 1: Marinate the Meat
In a spacious bowl, combine the yogurt, half of the ginger-garlic paste, a pinch of salt, and a hint of turmeric. Add the lamb and allow it to marinate for 30 to 60 minutes—the longer it sits, the richer the flavor.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and Gently fry until golden and soft. Stir in the rest of the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, coriander, and just a pinch of garam masala to kick up the flavor. Stir until the kitchen smells like magic.
When the spices bloom in oil, that’s the real start of any great curry.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Toss in the marinated lamb and let it brown on all sides. Then, pour in some water or broth, bring it to a boil, drop the heat, and let it gently simmer for around 45 minutes—until the lamb is fall-apart tender and packed with flavor.
Step 5: Finish Strong
Sprinkle in the rest of the garam masala. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste, adjust salt, and you’re done!
📝 Pro Tips for the Best Rogan Josh
- Don’t rush the simmer: The slower it cooks, the better it gets.
- Want it creamier? “Top it off with a dollop of cream to add that perfect touch of richness.”
- No lamb? Use chicken or tofu for a twist.
- Best enjoyed with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or soft roti on the side.
🧊 Leftovers & Storage
This curry actually tastes better the next day! Pop leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for 3–4 days or in the freezer for up to a month.
Want to geek out on the origin of Rogan Josh? Read this article on Indian culinary history.
Craving more curry? Don’t miss our – Authentic Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani)
