This rich, flavour-packed curry has been a Kiwi fave for generations, and it’s not for the faint-hearted or the bland-palated.
Originating from the heavenly valleys of Kashmir, Rogan Josh made its way into the hearts and kitchens of New Zealand. Its history is as rich as its sauce, with roots tracing back to the Mughals, Persians, and even the Kashmiri Pandits. But let’s cut to the chase – what’s got everyone from Cape Reinga to the Bluff slurping and sighing in culinary delight?
The Secret’s in the Spice
Rogan Josh is a masterful blend of aromatic spices and tender meat, usually lamb, that simmers slowly in a pot of magic. The recipe calls for cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and the showstopper – Kashmiri chilli, giving it that signature red hue without blowing your head off with heat. It’s a riot of flavours, a symphony of spice, and a dance of delight on your taste buds.
The Kiwi twist
But here’s the thing – Kiwis, known for their love of a good curry, have embraced Rogan Josh with a twist. From the hipster cafes of Ponsonby to the snug pubs in the Southland flats, cooks and takeways are putting their unique spin on this classic dish. Some add a dollop of cream for richness, others throw in a splash of local ale – the creativity is endless.
It’s not just delicious; it’s great for your health too. The spices in Rogan Josh aren’t just there for the kick; they’re packed with health benefits. Turmeric with its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon for your heart, and let’s not forget the yoghurt, making it a gut-friendly delight. It’s a guilt-free pleasure.
The beauty of Rogan Josh is its versatility. Fancy a cosy night in? Rogan Josh. Dinner party to impress? Rogan Josh. Trying to woo a special someone with your culinary skills? You guessed it – Rogan Josh. It’s the Swiss Army knife of curries, suitable for every occasion.
Recipe for Rogan Josh
Ingredients:
- 500g lamb or beef, cut into chunks
- 3 tbsp
- 2 bay leaves, 5-6 cloves, 3-4 green cardamom pods, 2 black cardamom pods, 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of galic, minced
- 2-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tsp coriander powder, 2 tsp cumin powder, 2 tsp paprika, 1-2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (for colour and mild heat), 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 large tomato, finely chopped or pureed
- 1 cup of yoghurt, beaten
- Water as needed
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp of Garam Masala
- Fresh Coriander for garnish
Method:
- Prepare the Meat: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the whole spices (bay leaves, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon) and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Sauté the Onions: Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown.
- Add Ginger and Garlic: Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add Ground Spices: Mix in coriander, cumin, paprika, Kashmiri chili, and turmeric powders. Cook the spices for a couple of minutes, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Cook the Meat: Add the meat chunks to the pot. Cook until all sides of the meat are well browned.
- Add Tomato and Yogurt: Stir in the chopped or pureed tomato. Cook for a few minutes until the tomatoes are softened. Reduce the heat, then gradually add the beaten yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent it from curdling.
- Simmer: Add enough water to cover the meat. Season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the meat is tender (this may take 1-2 hours depending on the cut of the meat).
- Finish with Garam Masala: Once the meat is tender and the gravy has reached the desired consistency, sprinkle garam masala over the curry and stir.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh coriander. Serve hot with rice or Indian breads like naan or roti.
Tips:
- Meat Choice: Rogan Josh is traditionally made with lamb, but beef or even chicken can be used.
- Yogurt: Make sure the yogurt is at room temperature and beat it well to ensure a smooth gravy.
- Cooking Time: Cooking time can vary significantly based on the type and cut of meat. Using a pressure cooker can speed up the process.
- Authenticity: Traditional Rogan Josh may use specific ingredients like asafoetida (hing) or dried ginger powder (sonth). These can be added for more authenticity.
Enjoy your homemade Rogan Josh!
