Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh is a delicious, flavorful, and aromatic Indian-inspired curry dish, made famous by the British television duo, Dave Myers and Simon King, collectively known as the Hairy Bikers. Their version of Lamb Rogan Josh takes the traditional Kashmiri curry and adds their own touch of love and expertise.

It’s a perfect blend of tender lamb chunks simmered in a spiced and creamy sauce. What makes this recipe stand out is the careful balance between bold spices, a rich, deep flavor profile, and the addition of ingredients like yogurt and tomatoes to achieve a smooth, velvety sauce. This dish is hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, offering a culinary experience that combines warmth, heat, and the earthy essence of lamb.

Rogan Josh is a popular curry in India, originally from Kashmir. The name "Rogan" means "red," and "Josh" refers to the dish’s rich, spicy flavor.

In this version, the lamb is cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the spices used bring a mild heat to the dish without overpowering the natural flavors. The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh recipe is a crowd-pleaser and brings the rich flavors of Kashmiri cuisine to your dinner table, but with a simplicity that is accessible even to beginner cooks.

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh, you will need the following ingredients:

For The Marinade

• 1 kg of lamb shoulder, trimmed and cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons of yogurt (preferably full-fat)
• 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric
• 1 tablespoon of ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder (adjust according to your spice tolerance)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For The Curry

• 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or ghee
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 3-4 tablespoons of tomato paste
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• 1 star anise
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1-2 cups of water or stock (adjust based on the consistency you prefer)
• Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped for garnish
• Optional: A splash of cream or a dollop of yogurt for extra richness

Equipment Needed

To prepare this flavorful Lamb Rogan Josh, you will need the following kitchen equipment:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven – To cook the lamb and curry sauce together slowly, allowing the meat to become tender and the flavors to blend.
2. Sharp Knife – To chop the lamb and vegetables neatly and efficiently.
3. Chopping Board – To safely chop your ingredients.
4. Large Spoon or Spatula – To stir the curry as it cooks, ensuring that it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
5. Grater – For the ginger, and optionally for the garlic if you want to mince it finely.
6. Blender or Food Processor – For pureeing the tomatoes if you don’t want to use store-bought puree.
7. Serving Dishes – To serve the dish to your guests or family members.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh

Step 1: Marinate The Lamb

Start by marinating the lamb to infuse it with all those wonderful spices. In a bowl, combine the yogurt, ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Add the lamb cubes and mix well until the lamb is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and allow the lamb to marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but ideally overnight to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 2: Prepare The Curry Base

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them until golden brown and soft, around 8-10 minutes. This caramelizes the onions, which adds depth to the curry’s flavor.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, star anise, and bay leaves. Stir the mixture to release the fragrant spices.

Step 4: Build The Spice Paste

Add the ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, and garam masala to the pot. Stir everything together to coat the onions, garlic, and ginger in the spices, and cook for another 1-2 minutes. This helps to release the essential oils from the spices, bringing out their full flavor.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes And Cook

Stir in the tomato paste and pureed tomatoes. Allow this to simmer for 5-10 minutes, letting the tomatoes break down and the flavors combine. You should have a thick, rich base at this point.

Step 6: Add The Marinated Lamb

Add the marinated lamb cubes to the pot and stir to coat the lamb in the spice mixture. Allow the lamb to sear on all sides for 5-10 minutes. This step seals in the juices and adds even more flavor to the meat.

Step 7: Simmer The Curry

Once the lamb is seared, add water or stock to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.

5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally, and check for seasoning, adding salt or more spices if needed.

Step 8: Garnish And Serve

Once the lamb is cooked and tender, remove the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and bay leaves. Garnish the dish with fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves. For extra richness, you can stir in a little cream or yogurt.

Serve the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh hot with basmati rice or naan bread for a truly satisfying meal.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Use Bone-In Lamb: If you want to make the dish even more flavorful, consider using bone-in lamb. The bones add depth and richness to the sauce as they cook.
2. Marinate Longer: While 1 hour is sufficient, marinating the lamb overnight will allow the spices to penetrate deeper into the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.
3. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder or use a mild paprika instead of the hot variety. For a more fiery curry, increase the amount of chili powder or add some fresh chopped chilies.
4. Make it Ahead: This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
5. Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh coriander (cilantro) is essential for garnish, as it adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy curry.

The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh is a flavorful and satisfying dish that brings the vibrant and aromatic spices of Indian cuisine right to your kitchen. With tender lamb, a rich, spiced sauce, and a balanced mix of ingredients, it’s a perfect dish for a special family dinner or a dinner party.

By following the step-by-step guide and utilizing a few handy tips and tricks, you’ll be able to master this dish and delight your taste buds with each bite. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!.

Simple Twists On Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe

The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh is a delicious and hearty dish, perfect for those who love aromatic, flavorful curries. While their recipe is already rich with spices and depth, there are always ways to infuse your own twist and personal touch to make it even more exciting. Here are some simple yet flavorful twists you can add to the original recipe:

1. Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess: A traditional Rogan Josh doesn’t include coconut milk, but adding a splash of it towards the end of the cooking process gives the curry a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness. This addition works wonderfully to balance out the heat from the spices, making the dish smoother and more indulgent.
2. Roast the Spices: Before adding them to the dish, try dry roasting the whole spices (like cumin, coriander, and cardamom) in a hot pan. This simple step enhances their flavor, releasing oils and intensifying their aromas. Roasting spices is a trick used by many chefs to create a deeper, more complex flavor profile in the curry.
3. Infuse with Fresh Herbs: A handful of fresh coriander leaves added at the end of cooking gives the curry a burst of freshness. Some people even like to add a bit of mint for a refreshing twist. You can also try adding basil for an Italian fusion or curry leaves to stay closer to the Indian influence.
4. Incorporate Dried Fruits: For a slightly sweeter touch, you can add raisins or dried apricots. The sweetness of the fruit contrasts nicely with the spices, bringing balance and a rich texture to the curry. This is especially common in many Persian-inspired Rogan Josh variations.
5. Use Greek Yogurt: While many recipes for Rogan Josh use cream, substituting with Greek yogurt can make the dish lighter while still retaining that creamy texture. It also adds a tangy note, which contrasts beautifully with the deep, spicy flavors of the lamb.
6. Experiment with Vegetables: For a more substantial dish, you can add vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes. These not only add color and texture but also absorb the flavorful curry sauce, making every bite richer and more satisfying.
7. Try Different Meats: While lamb is traditional, don’t hesitate to swap it out for other meats. Beef, chicken, or even paneer can work well. If you opt for chicken, consider using boneless thighs for a tender texture, or if you go with beef, braised short ribs would give a lovely richness.

These twists can help you personalize the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh recipe, adding variety and catering to your taste preferences while still maintaining the soul of this comforting dish.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Leftovers from a hearty dish like Lamb Rogan Josh can be a real treat for the next day, but proper storage is key to maintaining both flavor and safety. Here’s how to store your leftovers efficiently:

1. Cool Down Quickly: Before refrigerating your leftovers, ensure that the curry cools down quickly to prevent bacterial growth. You can speed up the cooling process by transferring the curry to a shallow container, allowing heat to escape more efficiently.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store your leftovers in airtight containers. This not only prevents odors from seeping into other foods in your fridge but also helps retain the curry’s flavor. Ideally, use containers that are both freezer-safe and microwave-safe, so you can reheat the meal later without hassle.
3. Refrigeration: If you plan on eating the leftovers within 3-4 days, store them in the fridge. Ensure the temperature of the fridge is below 40°F (4°C) to safely store food. For extra protection, label the containers with the date so you know exactly when you stored the leftovers.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For leftovers you won’t be consuming in the next few days, freezing is a great option. Once cooled and placed in an airtight container or freezer bag, lamb curry can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a saucepan over low heat.
5. Reheating: When reheating your curry, always ensure it is heated to a high temperature (at least 165°F or 74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. Stir the curry occasionally as it reheats to ensure an even temperature. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, but adding a splash of water or stock helps prevent it from becoming too thick and dry.
6. Avoid Multiple Reheats: Only reheat leftovers once. Repeated heating and cooling can lead to foodborne illness, and the flavor of the curry may degrade each time it is reheated. So, try to portion your leftovers into individual servings to reheat only the amount you’ll need.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your Lamb Rogan Josh tastes just as good the second time around as it did the first!

What To Eat With Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh?

Lamb Rogan Josh is a robust, flavorful dish, and pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal. Here are a few side dishes and accompaniments that will complement the rich flavors of the curry:

1. Basmati Rice: The classic choice. Basmati rice is light, fluffy, and aromatic, which makes it a perfect partner for a heavy, spicy curry like Lamb Rogan Josh. You could also try turmeric rice, which adds an additional layer of flavor with a slight golden color.
2. Naan Bread: Naan is a staple in Indian cuisine and pairs wonderfully with curries. It’s perfect for scooping up the curry sauce, and the soft, pillowy texture complements the richness of the Lamb Rogan Josh. You can go for traditional plain naan or try variations like garlic naan or cheese naan for a delicious twist.
3. Raita: A yogurt-based side dish, raita helps balance the heat of a spicy curry. It often includes cucumber, mint, and spices like cumin and coriander. Its cool, refreshing taste contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the Rogan Josh.
4. Chapati or Paratha: If you’re looking for something lighter than naan, chapatis are a great option. These whole wheat flatbreads are slightly chewy and less indulgent, allowing the flavors of the curry to shine. Parathas, on the other hand, are flakier and richer, making them a more indulgent option.
5. Pickles: Indian pickles (achaar) provide a tangy, spicy contrast to the curry. A small side of mango pickle or lime pickle can add an exciting burst of flavor, giving the dish an extra dimension.
6. Sautéed Vegetables: A simple vegetable side dish, like sautéed spinach or a medley of roasted vegetables, provides a fresh, healthy counterpoint to the richness of the curry. The slight bitterness of spinach pairs particularly well with the robust flavors of Rogan Josh.
7. Papadums: For some crunch, serve crispy papadums on the side. These thin, crispy wafers are a common Indian accompaniment and provide a satisfying contrast in texture to the tender lamb in the curry.
8. Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy flavors of mango chutney offer a delicious contrast to the spiciness of the Lamb Rogan Josh, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Conclusion

Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh is a wonderfully flavorful dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes. Whether you’re looking to add a creamy element like coconut milk or experimenting with different types of meat, there’s always a new way to enjoy this classic curry.

By following proper storage guidelines, you can savor your leftovers just as much as the original meal, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Pairing the dish with classic sides like basmati rice and naan or adventurous additions like raita and pickles can further enhance your curry experience, making it a meal to remember.

FAQs

What Makes The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe Unique?

The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh stands out due to its balanced blend of rich spices and tender lamb. The recipe uses a combination of traditional Indian ingredients like cinnamon, cumin, and garam masala, paired with a slow-cooked method that allows the flavors to deeply infuse the lamb. The Hairy Bikers also add their own twist by using yogurt and tomatoes to create a smooth, aromatic sauce that’s not overly spicy but full of flavor.

Can I Substitute Lamb With Another Meat In The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lamb with other meats like chicken or beef, though the cooking time may vary depending on the meat you choose. Chicken will cook faster than lamb, so adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure the meat is tender. While lamb is the traditional choice for Rogan Josh, using a different meat will still allow you to enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of the dish.

How Do I Make The Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh Recipe Less Spicy?

To reduce the spiciness of the Hairy Bikers’ Lamb Rogan Josh, you can adjust the amount of chili used in the recipe. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply use less fresh chili or substitute it with a milder variety like bell pepper.

Additionally, using more yogurt and tomatoes in the sauce can help tone down the heat while maintaining the dish’s flavor profile. Keep tasting the sauce as you go to ensure the spiciness suits your preference.