Mutton Korma is one of the most famous Mughlai dishes, loved for its rich, aromatic, and spicy flavors. Originating from the royal kitchens of Delhi, this dish has a history dating back centuries. The slow-cooked mutton, infused with a variety of whole spices, yogurt, and nuts, makes for a deliciously indulgent meal. In this article, we will walk you through an authentic Delhi-style Mutton Korma recipe, ensuring a balance of taste, texture, and tradition.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients:
For Marination:
- 1 kg mutton (bone-in, cut into medium pieces)
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger paste
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
For the Gravy:
- 3 large onions (thinly sliced)
- 4 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 2 tablespoons cashew nuts or almonds (soaked and blended into a paste)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (soaked and blended into a paste)
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 4 green cardamoms
- 2 black cardamoms
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon saffron strands (soaked in warm milk)
- ½ cup fresh cream (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Marinating the Mutton
Marination plays a crucial role in making the mutton tender and flavorful. In a large bowl, mix the mutton pieces with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cover and let it rest for at least 2-4 hours or overnight for the best results.
Step 2: Frying the Onions
Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-bottomed pan and add the sliced onions. Fry them on medium heat until they turn golden brown. Remove half of the fried onions and keep them aside for garnish.
Step 3: Cooking the Mutton
To the remaining fried onions, add the whole spices – green cardamoms, black cardamoms, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Stir for a few seconds until aromatic.
Now, add the marinated mutton to the pan and cook on medium-high heat until it turns brown. This step enhances the flavors and locks in the juices of the meat.
Step 4: Adding the Nutty Paste
Add the blended cashew or almond paste along with poppy seed paste. Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the masala starts releasing oil.
Step 5: Spicing It Up
Mix in coriander powder, cumin powder, and black pepper powder. Stir for a couple of minutes and then add a little water to prevent burning.
Step 6: Slow Cooking
Pour 2 cups of warm water into the pan and cover it with a lid. Allow the mutton to simmer on low heat for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking process helps in developing deep flavors.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once the mutton is tender, add the saffron-soaked milk and fresh cream. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
Garnish with the reserved fried onions and fresh coriander leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Delhi-style Mutton Korma pairs best with:
- Naan or Roti
- Steamed Basmati Rice
- Sheermal or Roomali Roti
Accompany it with a side of fresh cucumber raita or onion salad for a complete meal experience.
Tips for the Perfect Mutton Korma
- Marination Time – The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the mutton will be.
- Quality of Meat – Always use fresh, bone-in mutton for the best taste.
- Slow Cooking – Allowing the korma to cook on low heat enhances the depth of flavors.
- Balancing Spices – Adjust the spice levels according to your preference, but don't skip garam masala and black pepper for that authentic taste.
- Consistency of Gravy – If you prefer a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water; for a thinner consistency, add more water while cooking.
Conclusion
Delhi-style Mutton Korma is a dish that brings together royal flavors and rich textures. With its deep, aromatic spices and slow-cooked mutton, this dish remains a favorite for festive occasions and special gatherings. By following this detailed recipe, you can recreate an authentic taste of Delhi right in your kitchen. Enjoy your homemade spicy Mutton Korma with family and friends!
Happy Cooking!
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