If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’ve probably heard of butter chicken, a popular dish made with succulent pieces of chicken in a creamy tomato-based sauce. ( read more information about Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce)

But have you ever tried makhani lamb? This delicious and flavorful dish is similar to butter chicken but uses tender pieces of lamb instead of chicken.

Today, we’ll explore the history of makhani lamb, how it’s prepared, and why it’s a must-try dish for any food lover.

The History of Makhani Lamb

Makhani lamb has its roots in the Mughlai cuisine of India. The Mughal Empire ruled India from the 16th to the 19th century and left a significant influence on Indian cuisine. Mughlai cuisine is known for its rich and aromatic flavors, and it often includes ingredients such as nuts, saffron, and cream.

Makhani lamb is a relatively new addition to the Mughlai cuisine. The dish is said to have originated in the Indian state of Punjab, where it was created as a variation of butter chicken.

The chefs in Punjab replaced the chicken with lamb to make a richer and more decadent dish. Today, makhani lamb is a popular dish in North Indian restaurants around the world.

Ingredients and Preparation of Lamb Makhani Recipe

Lamb makhani curry recipe is a flavorful and aromatic dish that requires a few key ingredients to make. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 lb. boneless lamb, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp. butter
• 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp. ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp. cumin seeds
• 1 tsp. coriander powder
• 1 tsp. garam masala
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

To prepare makhani lamb, follow these steps:

1. Heat the butter and vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onions and ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the onions turn translucent.
4. Add the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Add the coriander powder, garam masala, salt, and pepper and mix well.
6. Add the lamb pieces and stir until they are well coated with the sauce.
7. Cover the pan and let the lamb cook for 20-25 minutes or until it’s tender.
8. Add the heavy cream and mix well.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.

Why You Should Try Makhani Lamb

Makhani lamb is a dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Here are some reasons why you should give it a try:

1. Rich and flavorful: Makhani lamb is a dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of spices, tomato puree, and cream creates a rich and decadent sauce that perfectly complements the tender pieces of lamb.
2. Unique: While butter chicken is a popular dish, makhani lamb is a unique and delicious alternative. The lamb adds a depth of flavor that chicken can’t match, and the dish is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
3. Easy to make: Although makhani lamb may sound complicated, it’s actually quite easy to make. With a few key ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can easily whip up this flavorful dish at home.

4. Versatile: Makhani lamb can be served with rice or naan bread, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in different ways.
5. Nutritious: Lamb is a good source of protein, and the dish also contains spices and vegetables that are beneficial to your health.
6. Cultural significance: Makhani lamb is a dish that has a rich cultural history in India. By trying it, you can learn more about the country’s cuisine and heritage.

Tips for Making the Perfect Makhani Lamb

While makhani lamb (lamb bhuna) is easy to make, there are a few tips you can follow to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly:

1. Use good quality lamb: The quality of the lamb you use will affect the taste of the dish. Look for fresh, tender lamb for the best results.
2. Use fresh spices: Fresh spices will give your lamb korma a more vibrant flavor than pre-packaged spices.
3. Don’t skimp on the cream: The cream is what gives makhani lamb its rich and creamy texture, so don’t be afraid to use a generous amount.
4. Let the lamb cook slowly: Slow-cooking the lamb will make it more tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

Makhani lamb is a delicious and unique dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Its rich history and flavorful ingredients make it a must-try for anyone who loves Indian cuisine.

By following the simple recipe and tips outlined in this article, you can easily make this dish at home and enjoy a taste of India in your own kitchen.

FAQs

1. Is lamb vindaloo spicy?

Makhani lamb is a mild dish, but it does contain spices such as cumin and coriander that give it a flavorful kick.

2. Can I use chicken instead of lamb in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for lamb in this recipe to make butter chicken.

3. Can I make makhani lamb in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make makhani lamb in a slow cooker by following the same recipe and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

4. Is lamb karahi gluten-free?

Yes, makhani lamb is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients.

5. Can I freeze makhani lamb?

Yes, you can freeze makhani lamb for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

6. What can I serve with makhani lamb?

Makhani lamb is typically served with rice or naan bread, but you can also serve it with other Indian side dishes such as samosas or pakoras.

7. Can I make makhani lamb ahead of time?

Yes, you can make makhani lamb ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

8. How long will leftover makhani lamb keep in the refrigerator?

Leftover makhani lamb will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.