The Most Aromatic Lamb Curry Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Aromatic spices dance through this hearty lamb curry, promising a culinary adventure that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India.

Fragrant herbs and tender meat create a symphony of flavors waiting to unfold.

Slow-cooked perfection emerges from a carefully balanced blend of traditional seasonings.

Rich, warming notes promise comfort in every single bite.

Generations of family recipes inspire this mouthwatering dish that connects cultures through incredible taste.

Deep layers of complexity make each spoonful an exciting exploration of authentic cuisine.

You’ll want to gather around the table and savor every incredible moment of this delicious journey.

What To Serve With James Martin Lamb Curry

• Pair Spicy Curry with Cooling Raita: Whip up a refreshing yogurt-based raita with cucumber, mint, and a pinch of cumin to balance the lamb curry's intense heat and spices.
• Complement with Crisp White Wine: Select a Riesling or Gewürztraminer with slight sweetness and acidity to cut through the rich, spicy curry and enhance its complex flavor profile.
• Match with Fragrant Basmati Rice: Choose long-grain basmati rice cooked with whole spices like cardamom and cloves to provide a delicate, aromatic base that perfectly absorbs the curry's robust sauce.

Best Storage Advice For James Martin Lamb Curry

• Store leftover lamb curry in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent flavor absorption.
• Transfer cooled curry to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal completely, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
• Place curry in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

FAQs About James Martin Lamb Curry

• What makes this lamb curry unique?

The combination of slow-cooked lamb with complex spice marinade and charred aromatics creates deep, layered flavors that distinguish this curry from traditional recipes.

• Can I use a different type of meat?

While lamb is recommended, you can substitute with goat or beef, adjusting cooking times to ensure meat becomes tender and absorbs the marinade.

• How spicy is this curry?

The heat level depends on the chili used. For milder version, remove chili seeds or use fewer chilies; for extra heat, keep seeds or add more fresh chili.

• Do I need special equipment to make this curry?

No special equipment is needed – a standard large pot, blender or food processor, and basic kitchen tools will work perfectly for preparing this delicious curry.

Why James Martin Lamb Curry Is Rich And Comforting

• Unleash Intense Flavor: Marinating lamb overnight infuses deep, complex spices that transform ordinary meat into a taste sensation.
• Conquer Slow-Cooking Magic: Extended simmering breaks down tough lamb fibers, creating meltingly tender meat that falls apart with minimal effort.
• Elevate Home Cooking: This restaurant-quality curry brings sophisticated international cuisine directly to your kitchen, impressing family and guests without complex techniques.
• Customize Your Comfort: Flexible toppings and serving options allow personalization, making this curry adaptable for different preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need For James Martin Lamb Curry

• Lamb: A tender and flavorful meat that forms the base of this hearty curry.
• Stock: A rich liquid that helps tenderize the lamb and develop deep flavors.
• Coconut Milk: Adds a creamy, smooth texture and subtle sweetness to the curry.

• Onion, Garlic, Chilli: Provide a robust and spicy flavor foundation for the curry.
• Lime: Brings a bright, tangy element to balance the rich meat.
• Thyme, Cinnamon: Contribute warm and earthy undertones to the dish.

• Tomatoes, Sugar: Create a balanced sweet and acidic sauce.
• Zest: Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness to the final curry.
• Oil: Used for cooking and helping to develop flavors during the cooking process.

Directions For James Martin Lamb Curry

Step 1: Craft Aromatic Marinade

• Fresh onions
• Garlic cloves
• Fiery chili peppers
• Fragrant olive oil
• Zesty lime juice

Pulse the ingredients until they form a smooth, vibrant mixture that will infuse the lamb with incredible depth.

Step 2: Marinate and Infuse

Generously coat the lamb pieces with the marinade, ensuring every surface is covered. Wrap securely and let the meat luxuriate in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate and tenderize.

Step 3: Sear and Simmer Lamb

Heat a heavy-bottomed pot and brown the marinated lamb pieces until they develop a rich, golden crust. Pour in savory stock and let the meat gently simmer, transforming into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness over two hours.

Step 4: Char and Crush Aromatics

Grill additional onions and chili peppers until they develop smoky char marks. Crush these roasted vegetables to release their intense, caramelized essence.

Step 5: Build Complex Flavor Base

• Ripe tomatoes
• Subtle sugar
• Fresh thyme
• Warm cinnamon
• Bright citrus zest

Let these ingredients meld together for 30 minutes, creating a rich, multilayered sauce.

Step 6: Finish with Creamy Coconut

Pour in luxurious coconut milk and the grilled vegetable mixture. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and harmonize.

Step 7: Final Touch and Serve

Taste the curry and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve the fragrant lamb curry over fluffy rice, garnished with your favorite toppings for a truly memorable meal.

Tips To Master James Martin Lamb Curry

• Marinate Wisely: Let lamb soak in spices overnight to develop deep, rich flavors that penetrate every fiber of the meat.
• Control Cooking Heat: Maintain a gentle simmer to keep lamb tender and prevent tough, chewy texture during the long cooking process.
• Balance Spice Levels: Adjust chili and spices gradually, tasting as you go to create a perfect harmony of heat and flavor without overwhelming the palate.
• Layer Ingredients Strategically: Add ingredients in stages to build complex flavor profiles, allowing each component to contribute its unique taste and aroma.
• Enhance Texture Contrast: Char onions and chili before adding to create smoky undertones and add interesting textural elements to the curry.

Try These Twists On James Martin Lamb Curry

• Vegetarian Curry Swap: Replace lamb with firm tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for a plant-based protein option that absorbs spices beautifully.
• Slow Cooker Method: Transfer marinated protein to slow cooker instead of stovetop, cooking on low for 6-8 hours for tender, hands-off preparation.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining rich, complex flavor profile.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Reduce or eliminate chili for mild version, or add extra green chilies and cayenne for intense heat seekers wanting more kick.

Lamb Curry Recipe

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4.7 from 40 reviews

• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours (excluding overnight marinating)
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy Indian Lamb Curry brings robust flavors from traditional cooking methods, promising a culinary journey through aromatic spices and tender meat. Rich layers of taste will transport you to authentic kitchens across India, inviting warmth and delicious comfort in every savory bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1.65 pounds (750 grams) lamb shoulder, cubed

Spices and Herbs:

• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon hot chilli powder
• 2 teaspoons allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 4 sprigs thyme
• 12 cinnamon stick

Supporting Ingredients:

• 2 onions (1 diced, 1 in wedges)
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 scotch bonnets, finely chopped
• 1 lime, juiced (plus wedges to serve)
• 250 milliliters (8.45 fluid ounces) rapeseed oil
• 1 tin chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 600 milliliters (20.29 fluid ounces) stock
• 1 tin coconut milk
• Coriander, rice, and plantain crisps to serve

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Instructions

1. Create a vibrant marinade by pulverizing aromatic spices, onion, garlic, chili, oil, and lime in a food processor until smooth and well-integrated.
2. Thoroughly massage the marinade into lamb pieces, ensuring complete coverage, then refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
3. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot and sear lamb pieces until golden brown, developing rich caramelized edges that enhance flavor complexity.
4. Pour rich stock over browned lamb, reducing heat to low and allowing meat to gently simmer for approximately 2 hours until tender and nearly falling apart.
5. While lamb simmers, char remaining onion and chili over open flame or under broiler, creating smoky undertones, then finely mash to release intense flavors.
6. Introduce charred vegetable mixture into the pot along with diced tomatoes, a touch of sugar, fresh thyme, ground cinnamon, and bright citrus zest.
7. Continue simmering sauce for 30 minutes, allowing ingredients to meld and concentrate flavors.
8. Pour creamy coconut milk into the curry, stirring gently to incorporate, then fold in previously grilled vegetable mixture.
9. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing sauce to thicken and develop deeper, more complex flavor profile.
10. Taste and adjust seasonings, ensuring perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory notes.
11. Serve steaming hot over fragrant rice, garnished with fresh herbs and optional toppings for added texture and visual appeal.

Notes

• Marinate lamb overnight to enhance flavor absorption and tenderize meat deeply.
• Select fatty lamb cuts like shoulder or leg for richer, more succulent curry texture.
• Reduce cooking time by using pressure cooker or instant pot for quicker meal preparation.
• Swap lamb with chicken or tofu for alternative protein options that suit different dietary preferences.

• Prep Time: Overnight marinating (considered as inactive prep)
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 1025 kcal
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Fat: 90 g
• Saturated Fat: 20 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 65 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 45 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg