Name: Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil (or low-calorie spray for slimming version); 2 large onions, finely diced; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garam masala; 1 tsp mild chilli powder; 1 tsp sweet paprika; ½ tsp turmeric; ⅛ tsp ground cloves; 5 cardamom pods, lightly crushed; 1 bay leaf; 1 cinnamon stick; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger; 900 g (2 pounds) diced lamb, visible fat removed; 2 tbsp tomato paste (purée); 400 g (14 oz) tinned tomatoes (or fresh diced tomatoes if preferred); 500 ml (2 cups) hot chicken stock or water (use 250 ml/1 cup in slow cooker & Instant Pot versions); 5 tbsp natural yogurt (0% fat for slimming version); 2 tbsp fresh coriander (cilantro) to garnish; Salt and pepper to season; Pinch chilli flakes (optional); 3 fresh tomatoes, sliced to serve (optional); 1 small red onion; ½ cucumber, seeds removed; 4 vine tomatoes, seeded and finely diced; 1 red chilli, seeded and finely diced; 2 tbsp fresh coriander (cilantro), finely chopped; 1 lime, juice only; Salt and pepper to season

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If you have ever dreamed of creating a hearty, flavorful curry that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe is going to become your go-to. This classic Indian dish combines tender lamb simmered in a rich and aromatic blend of spices, tomatoes, and yogurt, delivering layers of robust flavor that will make your kitchen smell irresistible. Whether you’re a curry aficionado or just starting your journey into Indian cuisine, I promise this recipe strikes the perfect balance between authentic taste and straightforward cooking. Get ready to wow your taste buds and impress your friends with this ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows different ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center-left, there is a white bowl filled with raw cubed red meat. Above it, an opened can of bright red diced tomatoes and a smaller opened can of dark red tomato paste are placed side by side. To the top right, there is a white bowl containing chopped white onions. Below it, a small white bowl holds minced garlic and ginger with a green bay leaf resting on top. Next to it, another white bowl contains assorted ground spices in warm colors like red, brown, and yellow. In the middle, there is a small white dish with two cinnamon sticks and green cardamom pods. Towards the bottom left, a white bowl contains plain white yogurt or cream. Near the bottom right corner, three fresh red tomatoes still attached to their green vine lie on the surface. The setup is clean and organized for cooking preparation, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

You don’t need a long list of hard-to-find items to whip up this Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe. Each ingredient plays a special role in building the complex flavors and textures that make this curry so memorable. From the gently caramelized onions that create a base sweetness to the warm spices that make every bite sing, these essentials are what bring the dish to life.

2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil or low calorie spray: Provides the fat needed to sauté and flavor the dish, with ghee adding a rich, nutty undertone.
2 large onions, finely diced: Slowly cooked to soften and sweeten, forming the perfect curry foundation.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing the spices and acidity.
1 tsp Garam Masala: A fragrant spice blend giving deep warmth and complexity.
1 tsp mild chilli powder: Adds subtle heat without overpowering the palate.
1 tsp sweet paprika: Brings a smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
½ tsp turmeric: Adds earthy notes and a lovely golden hue.
⅛ tsp ground cloves: Infuses the curry with its distinctive aromatic richness.
5 cardamom pods, lightly crushed: These pods release a sweet, floral essence that feels exotic and inviting.
1 bay leaf: Adds a faint herbal aroma that complements the meaty flavors.
1 cinnamon stick: Imparts gentle warmth and a subtle sweetness.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Builds pungency and depth with every bite.
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger: Brightens the curry with fresh zing and balances the spices.
900 g (2 pounds) diced lamb, visible fat removed: Tender, lean lamb ensures a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
2 tbsp tomato paste (purée): Concentrated tomato flavor giving richness and color.
400 g (14oz) tinned tomatoes: Provide body, moisture, and a natural tanginess to the sauce.
500 ml (2 cups) hot chicken stock or water: Helps to simmer and tenderize the lamb while enriching the curry.
5 tbsp natural yogurt 0% fat: Adds creaminess and a gentle tang, mellowing out the spices.
2 tbsp fresh coriander (cilantro) to garnish: Fresh and bright contrast to the rich curry.
Salt and pepper to season: To taste, boosting all the other flavors.
Pinch chilli flakes (optional): For those who like a bit of extra heat.
3 fresh tomatoes, sliced to serve (optional): Adds fresh juiciness and color on the side.

How to Make Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe

Step 1: Gently Cook the Onions

Start by heating your ghee or chosen oil in a large shallow casserole dish. Add the finely diced onions, keeping the heat low so they soften and become sweet without browning. It takes about 5 to 7 minutes, but patience here is key; those perfectly softened onions lay the groundwork for the entire curry’s flavor.

Step 2: Add Spices and Aromatics

Next up, stir in your salt along with all the vibrant spices: Garam Masala, mild chili powder, paprika, turmeric, ground cloves, cardamom pods, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick. Toss in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger too. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with an irresistible aromatic warmth that signals magic is happening.

Step 3: Brown the Lamb

Add the diced lamb into the pot and stir it thoroughly, coating every piece with the fragrant spice mixture. This not only flavors the meat but seals in juices to keep it tender during the slow cooking process. The lamb is really where the heart of this dish lies.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Simmer

Stir in the tomato paste and canned tomatoes, blending them through the lamb. Pour in the hot chicken stock or water and bring the entire pot to a rolling simmer. Then reduce the heat, cover with a lid, and let it gently bubble away for 60 to 90 minutes. This slow simmering tenderizes each chunk of lamb and thickens the sauce into that classic rogan josh consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Yogurt and Seasoning

When the lamb is perfectly tender and sauce thickened, stir in the natural yogurt slowly, letting it melt into the sauce for that creamy texture. Take out the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, and cardamom pods, then taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili flakes if you want a little more kick. The yogurt cools the heat and adds a lovely tang balancing the spices.

How to Serve Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe

A metal pan full of thick red curry with chunks of meat and tomato slices on top, garnished with chopped green herbs. A piece of flatbread rests on the edge of the curry. A woman's hands hold the pan and a spoon with a dark handle, one hand steadying the pan and the other ready to scoop. The pan sits on a black round tray, surrounded by a bowl of bright yellow rice with a brown cinnamon stick on the side and a white bowl filled with colorful chopped salad made of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions. A clear glass of water is nearby, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshness is a wonderful counterpoint to the rich curry, so sprinkle plenty of chopped coriander leaves on top. Adding sliced fresh tomatoes or a dollop of yogurt on the side brings brightness and a refreshing note that makes this dish feel truly complete.

Side Dishes

Serve your lamb rogan josh with fluffy basmati rice that soaks up every drop of the luscious sauce. Traditional naan or flatbread is also a must-have to scoop and savor every bit. A simple kachumber salad—crisp cucumber, red onion, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime—adds crunch and acidity that pairs beautifully with the warm spices.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to elevate your serving style, consider layering the lamb curry over a bed of saffron-infused rice or garnishing with toasted nuts like cashews or almonds for extra texture and richness. For a festive touch, serve in individual mini-casseroles or rustic bowls lined with fresh coriander leaves for a pop of color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and enjoy within three days for optimal freshness and safety.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze portions of this curry for up to three months. For the best results, omit the yogurt before freezing, as it can separate and lose its creaminess when thawed. Cool the curry completely, then pack it tightly into freezer-safe containers or bags.

Reheating

When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove or microwave until piping hot throughout. After reheating, stir in fresh yogurt to restore the lush creaminess and serve as if freshly made.

FAQs

Can I substitute the lamb in this recipe?

Definitely! While lamb is traditional and offers a unique flavor, you can swap it for chicken thighs, beef, or even pork depending on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure tenderness.

How long does the rogan josh keep in the fridge?

This curry keeps really well and can be safely stored for up to three days. In fact, the flavors often taste deeper and more harmonious after resting overnight.

Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Yes! Both methods work wonderfully. For the slow cooker, sauté the onions and spices first, then transfer everything and cook low and slow for 6 to 8 hours. For the Instant Pot, sauté the ingredients, then pressure cook on high for about 20 minutes.

Can I make a lighter version of this dish?

Absolutely. Use lean lamb leg steaks with visible fat removed, substitute the ghee with vegetable oil or a low-calorie spray, and opt for 0% fat yogurt. This will keep the dish flavorful but lighter in calories.

What should I do if I want more heat in my curry?

Add more mild chili powder during cooking or sprinkle chili flakes when serving. You can also add a finely chopped fresh chili into the spice mix for an extra spicy kick. Just remember to adjust slowly so you don’t overpower the delicate balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe is a brilliant example of how traditional flavors and simple cooking techniques create a dish that feels both special and accessible. With its tender meat, luscious sauce, and lively spices, it’s a meal that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.