Lamb Karahi (mutton karahi)

Lamb Karahi recipe features tender lamb, rich tomato base, aromatic spices, fresh aromatics, creamy yogurt topped with crunchy cilantro.

Lamb Karahi stands out as a beloved classic, cherished in both Pakistani and North Indian households.

This dish is named after the traditional wok-like pan it’s cooked. It is a symphony of tender lamb, a rich tomato-based sauce, and an orchestra of spices that dance together in perfect harmony.

Imagine succulent pieces of lamb, marinated to perfection in a blend of yogurt, ginger, garlic, and a medley of aromatic spices.

Picture them sizzling in a karahi, their edges caramelizing as they release their out of this world aroma.

Then comes the vibrant burst of tomatoes, their acidity balanced by the creamy yogurt and the warmth of chilies.

As the sauce simmers and thickens, the flavors meld together, creating an amazing masterpiece that’s both comforting and exciting.

But Lamb Karahi is more than just a dish. it’s an experience.

It’s the warmth of gathering around a table with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter as you enjoy each bite.

It’s the satisfaction of recreating a cherished family recipe, passed down through generations.

It’s the joy of exploring new cultures through the language of food.

In this blog post, I invite you to a cooking adventure.

I’ll guide you through each step of creating an authentic Lamb Karahi, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques. I’ll share tips and tricks to ensure your dish bursts with flavor and tenderness.

Get ready to awaken your senses and discover the magic of Lamb Karahi, a dish that stole the heart and soul of South Asian cuisine.

Is lamb karahi spicy?

Lamb karahi can be spicy, but the level of spiciness can vary depending on the recipe and individual preferences.

Typically, lamb karahi is made with a blend of spices that includes chili powder, paprika, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. The amount of chili powder used will determine the level of heat. Some recipes may also include fresh chilies, which can add additional spiciness.

If you are sensitive to spice, you can request a milder version of lamb karahi or adjust the amount of chili powder used in the recipe.

What is lamb karahi made of?

Lamb karahi or mutton karahi is typically made of lamb, tomatoes, onions, yogurt, ginger, garlic, chilies, coriander leaves and other spices which are used in any Indian or Pakistani dishes.

What do you serve lamb karahi with?

Lamb karahi is typically served with Naan bread, Roti or Rice.

Naan is fluffy flatbread which is perfect for scooping the delicious lamb pieces. Roti is another flatbread which is thinner than naan.

Moreover you can also add different accompaniments with mutton karahi like raita, salad, chutneys and pickled onions.

Raita is a side dip which is prepared with yogurt. It helps to cool down the spiciness or karahi.

A very simple and basic salad made of chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumber and cabbage. It adds extra crunch and freshness to every bite.

Adding chutneys to add a tangy flavor is also a popular choice among local people. Mostly mango chutney or mint chutneys are used.

What is origin of Lamb Karahi?

Lamb karahi is a popular dish in South Asia. Its origins traced back to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region in present-day Pakistan.

The dish derives its name from the karahi which is a heavy, wok-like cooking vessel traditionally made of cast iron or clay.

While the exact history is unclear, the dish likely emerged from the Pashtun communities in the region.

Its simple preparation using readily available ingredients like lamb, tomatoes, and spices made it a practical and flavorful meal for other communities.

Today, lamb karahi is enjoyed throughout Pakistan and has also gained popularity in other parts of the world.

It is considered a staple dish in Pakistani cuisine and is often served at special occasions and gatherings.

Lamb Karahi Ingredients:

• 1 kg lamb shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3-4 medium tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 large onion, finely sliced
• 1/4 cup ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger
• 7-8 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• 1 tbsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
• Salt to taste

How to make Lamb karahi?

• In a bowl combine lamb, ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
• Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Add a pinch of baking soda to the marinated lamb. This would help to tenderize the meat and reduce cooking time.
• Heat oil or ghee in a karahi or any pan which have a heavy bottom medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced onions and fry until they turn golden brown.
• Add a pinch of sugar to the onions while frying for faster caramelization and a richer colour.
• Add the marinated lamb and cook it until browned on all sides.
• Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and release their juices. They would form a thick gravy.
• If you are using canned tomatoes, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.
• Add chopped ginger and garam masala powder also called warming spices. They are a mixture of many spices and you can get them from store in a pack.
• Mix well chopped ginger and warming spices and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and cooked through.
• Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti or rice.

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Lamb Karahi (mutton karahi)

Shereen Khan

Lamb Karahi recipe features tender lamb, rich tomato base, aromatic spices, fresh aromatics, creamy yogurt topped with crunchy cilantro.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Marination Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian, Pakistani

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 kg Lamb shoulder cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3-4 tomatoes roughly chopped
• 2 green chilies slit lengthwise
• 1 onion large
• ¼ cup ginger-garlic paste
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• ¼ cup coriander leaves chopped
• ¼ cup fresh ginger chopped
• 7-8 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• 1 tbsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• ½ tsp garam masala warming spices
• salt to taste

Instructions

 

• In a bowl combine lamb, ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
• Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Add a pinch of baking soda to the marinated lamb. This would help to tenderize the meat and reduce cooking time.
• Heat oil or ghee in a karahi or any pan which have a heavy bottom on medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced onions and fry until they turn golden brown.
• Add a pinch of sugar to the onions while frying for faster caramelization and a richer color.
• Add the marinated lamb and cook it until browned on all sides.
• Reduce heat to medium, add the chopped tomatoes and green chilies. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and release their juices. They would form a thick gravy.
• If you are using canned tomatoes, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity.
• Add chopped ginger and garam masala powder also called warming spices. They are a mixture of many spices and you can get them from the store in a pack.
• Mix well chopped ginger and warming spices and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lamb is tender and cooked through.
• Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Keyword Lamb Karahi, Mutton karahi

Final Words: Lamb Karahi (Mutton Karahi)

Your Lamb Karahi Adventure is Waiting!

Here is your guide to creating an unforgettable Lamb Karahi experience.

With its tender lamb, vibrant and aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking list.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the aromatic spices, and embark on a flavor-filled journey to South Asia.

Are You Ready to try your hand at Lamb Karahi?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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