Authentic Indian Mutton Curry

Ingredients

• Oil (3 tablespoons)
• Onions (2 medium, finely chopped)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Ginger (1 inch, grated)
• Green chilies (2, slit lengthwise)
• Mutton (1.5 pounds, cut into pieces)
• Tomatoes (2 medium, pureed)
• Yogurt (1 cup, whisked)
• Turmeric powder (1 teaspoon)
• Red chili powder (1 teaspoon (adjust to taste))
• Coriander powder (1 tablespoon)
• Cumin powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (to taste)
• Garam masala (1 teaspoon)
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
2. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies to the pot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant.
3. Introduce the mutton pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the mutton is well-seared to lock in the flavors.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the yogurt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt until smooth. This will be the base of your rich sauce.
5. Pour the yogurt mixture over the browned mutton and mix well, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
6. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the spices to permeate the meat, then add the tomato puree and stir to combine thoroughly.
7. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the curry simmer gently for 1 hour, or until the mutton is tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Once the mutton is tender, sprinkle garam masala over the curry and mix gently to incorporate.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
10. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete meal.