Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow-Cooked Lamb Shank Rogan Josh?
It is a rich, aromatic Indian classic featuring tender lamb shanks slow-cooked in a sauce of spices, yogurt, and saffron.
What specific cut of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses four lamb shanks, each weighing approximately 500 grams.
Why are the lamb shanks cooked with the bone in?
Cooking the shanks with the bone in allows deep, savory flavors to infuse into the sauce as it simmers.
Which spices are included in the spice blend?
The spice blend consists of chili powder, ground coriander, ground ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
Why do the lamb shanks need to be dusted in flour?
Plain flour is used to dust the lamb shanks before searing to help develop a crust and eventually thicken the Rogan Josh sauce.
How should the yogurt be prepared for the sauce?
The 300 ml of plain Greek yogurt should be blended with hot lamb stock before being added to the dish.
What is the role of saffron in this dish?
Saffron strands are used to infuse the dish with a unique aromatic flavor and a rich, golden hue.
When should the tomatoes be added?
The tomatoes, cut into wedges, are added towards the end of the cooking process.
What is the best side dish to serve with this lamb recipe?
It is highly recommended to pair this dish with a simple pilau rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
How do you prepare the onions for the base?
One large onion should be thinly sliced and cooked until it reaches a golden brown color.
Do I need to crack the cardamom pods?
Yes, the four cardamom pods should be cracked before being added to ensure their flavor is fully released into the sauce.
What type of oil is used for searing?
Two tablespoons of vegetable oil are used to sear the spiced lamb shanks.
How much chili powder is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of chili powder to give the dish its characteristic spice level.
Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?
Yes, this recipe specifically uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger mixed with the other dry spices.
What kind of yogurt works best?
Plain Greek yogurt is recommended for its thick consistency and tangy flavor profile.
How much lamb stock is required?
You will need 450 ml of hot lamb stock to create the braising liquid.
How should the tomatoes be cut?
The four tomatoes should be cut into six wedges each before being added to the pot.
Is there nutmeg in Rogan Josh?
In this specific delight version, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg is used to add warmth and depth to the spice profile.
What is the texture of the lamb after cooking?
The lamb is slow-cooked until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Can this recipe be considered comfort food?
Yes, due to its hearty nature and rich sauce, it is classified as a classic comfort food dish.
Is this a gourmet dish?
Yes, the use of saffron and the slow-cooking technique for whole lamb shanks gives it a gourmet quality.
How many lamb shanks does this recipe serve?
The recipe is designed for four lamb shanks, typically serving four people.
Is the sauce thick or thin?
The sauce is rich and thick, thanks to the reduction during slow cooking and the inclusion of Greek yogurt and flour.
What is the preparation for the lamb shanks before cooking?
The shanks are dusted with flour, brushed with a spice mixture, and then seared in oil.
Can I substitute the lamb stock?
While lamb stock provides the best flavor, beef stock can be used as a substitute if lamb stock is unavailable.
What category of cuisine does this recipe fall into?
This recipe is a staple of Indian cuisine, specifically a version of the popular Kashmiri dish, Rogan Josh.
Are the onions cooked with the meat?
The onions are typically sliced and cooked until golden separately or before the long simmering process to build the base flavor.
How do I ensure the yogurt doesn't curdle?
By blending the yogurt with hot stock before adding it to the pan, you temper the yogurt and help prevent it from curdling.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Yes, with 500g lamb shanks as the main ingredient, it is a very protein-rich meal.
Is this a main dish or a side?
This is a hearty main dish designed to be the centerpiece of a meal.