Step 1: Marinate the Mutton
- Prepare Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
- Marinate Mutton:
- Add the mutton pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base
- Heat Oil:
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, heat the oil over medium heat.
- Add Whole Spices:
- Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a few seconds until the spices release their aroma.
- Sauté Onions:
- Add the finely chopped onions and cook until they turn golden brown, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add Ginger-Garlic Paste and Green Chilies:
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Cook Tomatoes:
- Add the pureed tomatoes to the pot and cook until the oil begins to separate from the mixture, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Mutton
- Add Dry Spices:
- Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the spices from burning.
- Add Marinated Mutton:
- Add the marinated mutton pieces to the pot. Cook on high heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown the mutton.
- Add Water:
- Add water to the pot, ensuring the mutton is well-covered. Season with salt to taste.
- Cook Mutton:
- If using a pressure cooker, cover and cook for 4-5 whistles or until the mutton is tender. If using a pot, cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the mutton is tender, stirring occasionally and adding more water if needed.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Add Garam Masala:
- Once the mutton is cooked, stir in the garam masala and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the mutton curry hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender mutton with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Mutton Curry
- Quality of Mutton: Use fresh, high-quality mutton for the best flavor and texture.
- Marination Time: Marinate the mutton for at least 2 hours, but overnight marination yields the best results.
- Cooking Time: Ensure the mutton is cooked until tender. Pressure cooking is faster, but slow cooking in a pot enhances the flavors.
- Adjust Spices: Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preference.
- Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding more or less water as needed.
Conclusion
This mutton curry recipe is a true delight for meat lovers. The tender mutton pieces cooked in a rich and aromatic gravy make for a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful mutton curry with your loved ones!