Mutton Korma is a traditional South Asian aromatic, creamy, rich dish. Now this delectable curry is made by slow-cooking tender chunks of mutton in an aromatic spice mixture along with yogurt and nuts to create a royal dish that has throughout the years graced many tables. Be it a festive occasion, a family get-together, or a weekend indulgence, mutton korma never disappoints. In this blog, we will walk you through an authentic recipe to make this delicious dish at your home.
What is Mutton Korma?
The world of Mutton Korma traces its roots to the slow-cooked curries of the Mughlai kitchens before they transcended geography as an eye-soothing curry of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi cuisines. The dish is distinguished by its ample gravy, which consists of yogurt, ghee, and a bouquet of whole and ground spices. Traditionally the meat is braised in a rich sauce that allows it to soak up the very deep flavours of the spices.
Ingredients
A genuine mutton korma recipe requires the following things:
For the Mutton Marinade:
500 grams mutton (bone-in, cut into medium size pieces)
1 cup thick yogurt
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
For the Korma Gravy:
2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
2 large onions (thinly sliced)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
2-3 green cardamoms
2-3 cloves
1 teaspoon garam masala
1-inch cinnamon stick
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
½ cup heavy cream (1/2 cup coconut milk for vegans or the lactose intolerant)
1/4 cup cashew or almond paste (optional, for extra richness)
1/2 cup water (more if needed)
Chopped fresh coriander and fried onions to garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Mutton
Combine mutton pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is better). This tends to tenderize the meat and infuse flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a deep pan, heat ghee or oil on medium heat. Add onion slices and fry till golden brown. Set aside half the fried onions for garnish later. Add cumin seeds, cardamoms, cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaf. Cook for a few seconds more until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Mutton
Next, add the marinated mutton to the pan and cook on medium flame until the meat turns brown and spices start releasing aroma. Add coriander powder, garam masala, and pepper powder. Mix well. Add the cashew or almond paste (if using) and stir to combine. Add water if necessary, put the lid on the pan, and let the mutton cook on low flame for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the meat is tender. Stir occasionally and add more water as needed to keep it from sticking.
Step 4: Final Touches
When the mutton is tender, taste for seasoning and adjust as needed. Top with fresh coriander and fried onions. Serve hot with naan, paratha, or steamed rice.
Best Tips for Making Mutton Korma Perfect
My day: Slow is the way to go: Cook it low and slow — giving it time to build powerful flavors and tenderize the meat.
Get on with fresh and whole spices: Whole species account for a genuine and fragrant dimensionality to the dish.
Take your time to fry the onions: Caramelized onions contribute a natural sweetness and depth to the gravy.
Yogurt adds creaminess: Be sure to whisk the yogurt before you get it into the gravy so it won’t curdle.
If you want more flavor: You can add saffron-soaked milk or a spoonful of cream, for an even more regal finish.
Health Benefits of Mutton Korma
Although mutton korma is classified as a rich dish, it has a number of health benefits:
Great for muscle health: Mutton is rich in protein which aids in muscle building and repairing.
Croquettes are rich in basic vitamins and minerals: For example, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, essential for health.
Enhance immunity: Korma has spices like garlic, cinnamon, and black pepper, which boast antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Conclusion
‘Mutton Korma’ As the name suggests brings the royal taste to your table. Be it a special occasion or a moment when you want to treat yourself to a delectable meal at home, this recipe creates memorable moments. It is one of the all-time favorite dishes of tender meat, aromatic spices, and rich, creamy gravy.
Try out this mutton korma really authentic recipe, and share your experience and other tips in the comments. Happy cooking!
