Description

Step into the culinary world of Hyderabad with this delicious and aromatic Hyderabadi Mutton Curry. This dish is a true celebration of flavors, combining tender, juicy mutton with a rich and spicy gravy that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this curry brings the authentic taste of Hyderabad right to your table. The slow-cooked mutton, infused with a blend of spices and herbs, creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Serve it with rice, naan, or roti, and you have a meal that will leave everyone craving more.

Ingredients

• 500g mutton (bone-in, cut into pieces)
• 2 onions (finely chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (pureed)
• 2-3 green chilies (slit)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup yogurt (beaten)
• 2-3 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2-3 cloves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
• Salt to taste
• Water (as needed)

Preparation Method

Marinate the Mutton:

In a large bowl, mix the mutton pieces with yogurt, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the mutton is well coated, then cover and marinate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.
Prepare the Masala:

Heat oil or ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and bay leaf. Sauté these whole spices until they release their fragrant aromas, which will form the base of your curry.
Add the finely chopped onions to the pot and cook until they turn golden brown. This step is crucial as it adds sweetness and depth to the curry.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing the raw smell to disappear and the flavors to meld. Then, add the slit green chilies and cook for an additional minute.
Cook the Mutton:

Add the marinated mutton to the pot and sear on high heat until the pieces are browned on all sides. This seals in the juices and enhances the flavor of the meat.
Once the mutton is browned, sprinkle in the red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the mutton is well-coated with the spices.
Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala. This step indicates that the tomatoes are well-cooked and the flavors have deepened.
Simmer the Curry:

Add enough water to cover the mutton pieces, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mutton simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and succulent. Stir occasionally and add more water as needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Finish and Serve:

Once the mutton is fully cooked and tender, stir in the garam masala powder. Let the curry simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the garam masala to infuse the dish with its warm, complex flavors.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice just before serving. The acidity will brighten up the rich, savory notes of the curry, balancing the flavors beautifully. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a dollop of butter at the end of cooking.

Conclusion: This Hyderabadi Mutton Curry is a masterpiece of flavors, combining the rich, spicy, and aromatic elements that define Hyderabadi cuisine. The slow-cooked mutton, marinated in yogurt and spices, ensures each bite is tender and packed with flavor. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a comforting, homemade meal, this curry is sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite Indian bread or rice, and savor the delicious taste of Hyderabad in every bite. Enjoy!