Dinner

Rogan Josh: Spiced Lamb Curry with Yogurt and Aromatic Spices Recipe

Name: Rogan Josh: Spiced Lamb Curry with Yogurt and Aromatic Spices Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 2 onions, quartered; 4 tbsp sunflower oil; 4 garlic cloves, finely crushed; Thumb-size piece fresh root ginger, peeled and very finely grated; 2 tbsp Madras curry paste; 2 tsp paprika; 1 cinnamon stick; 6 green cardamom pods, bashed to break the shells; 4 cloves; 2 bay leaves; 1 tbsp tomato purée; 1 kg lean leg of lamb, cut into generous cubes; 150 ml Greek yogurt; Chopped coriander, to garnish

ByJake Silas November 12, 2025November 12, 2025

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Introduction

Rogan josh is a fragrant and hearty Indian lamb curry known for its rich spices and tender meat. This comforting dish combines warm spices with creamy yogurt for a depth of flavor that’s perfect for a cozy meal.

A white bowl filled with a layer of fluffy white rice as the base, topped with several pieces of brown, thick curry-coated meat chunks scattered unevenly. Small green herbs are sprinkled on top of the meat, adding a touch of color. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a purple and white striped cloth underneath. A silver fork lies next to the bowl, with a clear glass of water blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 onions, quartered
4 tbsp sunflower oil
4 garlic cloves, finely crushed
Thumb-size piece fresh root ginger, peeled and very finely grated
2 tbsp Madras curry paste
2 tsp paprika
1 cinnamon stick
6 green cardamom pods, bashed to break the shells
4 cloves
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp tomato purée
1kg lean leg of lamb, cut into generous cubes
150ml Greek yogurt
Chopped coriander, to garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Place the quartered onions into a food processor and pulse until very finely chopped.
Step 2: Heat the sunflower oil in a large heavy-based pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, cover with a lid, and fry gently, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden.
Step 3: Stir in the crushed garlic and grated ginger, frying for an additional 5 minutes to build flavor.
Step 4: Add the Madras curry paste, paprika, cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, bay leaves, and tomato purée. Stir well over the heat for about 30 seconds to release the spices’ aromas.
Step 5: Add the lamb pieces and pour in 300ml water. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 6: Stir in the Greek yogurt, then cover the pan and gently simmer for 40 to 60 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 7: Remove from heat, discard the whole spices if desired, and serve the rogan josh garnished with chopped coriander alongside plain basmati or pilau rice.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, marinate the lamb in yogurt and spices for a few hours before cooking.
Use lamb shoulder instead of leg for a fattier, more tender result.
If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of Madras curry paste or omit the paprika.
Serve with naan bread or garlic rice for added variety.

Storage

Store any leftover rogan josh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice, topped with several chunks of brown curry-coated meat that have a thick, textured sauce covering them. Small green herb leaves are scattered over the meat, adding a touch of color. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a purple and white striped cloth beneath it. A shiny silver fork rests on the cloth near the bowl, and a clear glass of water is slightly visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make rogan josh in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the onions and spices on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the lamb is tender.

Is Greek yogurt essential for this recipe?

Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang to the curry but you can substitute with regular plain yogurt or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option. Just add gently to prevent curdling.