Rogan Josh

There’s something about a pot of slowly simmered Rogan Josh that feels like pure culinary magic — rich, spiced, and deeply aromatic, with tender chunks of meat that fall apart at the touch of a fork. Originally from Kashmir and influenced by Persian cuisine, Rogan Josh has become a beloved Indian restaurant classic around the world.

My version brings together traditional technique and bold flavor in a way that’s achievable in a home kitchen. We’re using warming spices, creamy yogurt, and a slow-cooking method to get that deep red color and signature spice-layered depth, no specialty ingredients or overnight marinades needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Tender meat simmered slowly in spices and yogurt

• Complex but approachable flavor — no need to make your own garam masala

• Tomato + onion base gives it richness and body

• Customizable spice level for mild or spicy preferences

• Restaurant-style depth, made at home in one pot

What to Serve With Rogan Josh:

• Steamed basmati or jeera rice

• Homemade naan or roti

• Cucumber raita or mint chutney for contrast

• Pickled onions or lemon wedges on the side

Storage & Meal Prep:

• Fridge: Keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months

• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce

Final Thoughts:

Rogan Josh is one of those dishes that invites you to slow down — both in the cooking and the eating. The layers of spice, the tender meat, the rich red gravy… it’s deeply satisfying and surprisingly simple to pull off once you know the method.

Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or building your weeknight curry rotation, this homemade rogan josh hits all the right notes: bold, balanced, and deeply comforting.

Yield: 4-6 servings

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Indian Rogan Josh

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 2 HourTotal time: 2 H & 15 M

There’s something about a pot of slowly simmered Rogan Josh that feels like pure culinary magic — rich, spiced, and deeply aromatic, with tender chunks of meat that fall apart at the touch of a fork. Originally from Kashmir and influenced by Persian cuisine, Rogan Josh has become a beloved Indian restaurant classic around the world.

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Ingredients

For the Curry

• 2 tbsp oil (mustard oil or neutral oil like avocado)
• 1½ lbs (700g) lamb shoulder or stewing beef, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, finely sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup plain yogurt (room temp)
• 1 cup water or low-sodium broth (plus more as needed)
• Salt to taste
• Chopped cilantro, to garnish

For the Spice Blend

• 1 tsp cumin
• 1½ tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne (optional, for heat)
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp garam masala
• Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or Kashmiri chili powder for color

Instructions

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Sear the lamb or beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, lower the heat to medium. Add sliced onions and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown. Add garlic and ginger and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
3. Stir in all ground spices and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and thickened slightly.
4. Lower the heat and slowly whisk in the yogurt, 1 tablespoon at a time, to prevent curdling. Stir continuously until incorporated into the onion-spice mixture.
5. Return the seared meat to the pot. Add 1 cup water or broth. Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until meat is tender and sauce is thickened.
6. Optional: Uncover for the last 15–20 minutes for a richer, thicker gravy.
7. Finish with garam masala and freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Notes

No lamb? Use beef stew meat, boneless chicken thighs, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian version

Want it creamier? Add a splash of cream or cashew paste at the end

Too spicy? Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt when serving to mellow the heat

Don’t rush it — slow simmering is key to that classic rogan josh texture and flavor

Nutrition Facts

Calories

267

Sugar

4 g

Protein

25 g

Fat

15 g

Carbs

10 g

Sat. Fat

3 g

Cholesterol

73 mg

Fiber

2 g

Net carbs

8 g

Sodium

196 mg

Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.