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!
