Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry
If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s bursting with flavor and warmth, look no further than Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry. This beloved dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its rich combination of spices and the delightful sweetness of onions. “Dopiaza” translates to “two onions,” which perfectly encapsulates the heart of this curry, as it features both caramelized and sautéed onions.
This recipe brings together tender lamb, aromatic spices, and creamy yogurt to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this curry is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this authentic dish right in your kitchen.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavor from the blend of spices and lamb.
- Perfect balance of sweetness and heat from the onions and spices.
- Easy to follow, step-by-step instructions.
- Great for meal prep – it tastes even better the next day!
- Customizable to your spice preference.
- Ideal for serving with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice.
The Essentials
- 4 large onions: Essential for the base and flavor; caramelized and sautéed.
- Thumb-sized piece of fresh root ginger: Adds a fragrant warmth to the curry.
- 8 garlic cloves: Provides a robust depth of flavor.
- 2.2 lb lamb: Choose a cut like shoulder or leg for tender results.
- 3 tbsp ghee or a flavorless oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
- Spices: Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne for the perfect spice blend.
- 2 cups vegetable stock: For simmering the curry.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste: To enhance the color and flavor.
- ½ cup plain yogurt or coconut cream: For creaminess and tang.
- 1 tsp garam masala: The finishing touch for a fragrant aroma.
- Fresh lemon: For brightness and acidity.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Gear Checklist
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering the curry evenly.
- Sharp knife: For chopping onions and meat easily.
- Cutting board: Essential for food prep.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring and mixing.
- Serving dishes: For presenting your beautiful curry.
Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by finely chopping the 4 large onions, ginger, and garlic. Set aside. Cut the lamb into bite-sized pieces if not pre-cut.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your curry.
Step 3: Add Ginger and Garlic
Add the minced ginger and garlic to the pot, stirring well. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate the Lamb
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lamb pieces to the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Spice It Up
Once the lamb is browned, add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to coat the meat in the spices.
Step 6: Add Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the hot water and vegetable stock, followed by the tomato paste. Stir everything together, ensuring the tomato paste is well incorporated.
Step 7: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
Step 8: Finish the Curry
Once the lamb is tender, stir in the plain yogurt or coconut cream and garam masala. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the curry. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Smart Substitutions
- Use chicken or beef instead of lamb for a different protein.
- Swap ghee for olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Replace plain yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or sour cream for a creamier texture.
- Use vegetable broth instead of stock if you prefer a lighter flavor.
Cook’s Notes
This Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry is deeply flavorful, and the longer it simmers, the better it tastes. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. Also, it’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or even couscous.
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preference.
- For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of cream at the end.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will develop even further, making it a delightful dish to enjoy the next day.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure to cool completely before freezing.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Popular Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the lamb with chickpeas or paneer for a delicious vegetarian version of this curry.
What do I serve with Lamb Dopiaza Curry?
This curry pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber raita for a refreshing contrast.
How spicy is this curry?
The spice level can be adjusted to your liking by varying the amount of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, you can skip it altogether.
Can I use pre-ground spices?
While fresh spices are always recommended, you can use pre-ground spices if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure they are fresh for the best flavor.
Weekend Projects
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Explore her delicious desserts for a sweet ending to your meal.
- Pinch of Yum – Check out their collection for more comforting Indian dishes.
- Minimalist Baker – Find quick and easy recipes that complement your curry perfectly.
Save & Share
If you enjoyed this Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry, don’t forget to save the recipe for later and share it with your friends and family! It’s a dish that’s sure to bring everyone to the table.
This delightful curry not only satisfies your taste buds but also warms your soul. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry stands out as a dish worth celebrating. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a culinary journey to India right from your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Authentic Indian Lamb Dopiaza Curry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by finely chopping the onions, ginger, and garlic. Set aside. Cut the lamb into bite-sized pieces if not pre-cut.
- In a large pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Add the minced ginger and garlic to the pot, stirring well. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the lamb pieces to the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the lamb is browned, add the ground spices: cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne. Stir well to coat the meat.
- Pour in the hot water and vegetable stock, followed by the tomato paste. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender.
- Once the lamb is tender, stir in the yogurt or coconut cream and garam masala. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the curry, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your preference.
- For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of cream at the end.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
