Lamb Curry Recipes (Traditional & Easy)

This easy, step-by-step recipe yields tender lamb simmered in a spiced, aromatic yogurt gravy perfect for pairing with garlic naan and fluffy basmati rice.

If you love rich, comforting Indian dishes, this creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner. It is a deeply aromatic dish where tender pieces of lamb are slow-cooked to perfection. This authentic creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe relies on a beautiful blend of whole spices and ground cardamom to create a signature warming flavor.

Whether you are hosting a dinner party or cooking a cozy weekend meal, serving this spectacular creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe will easily impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients You Will Need

To get the best results from this creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe, we highly recommend using high-quality bone-in lamb shoulder or leg, as the marrow adds immense depth to the gravy.

• Lamb: 2 lbs lamb shoulder, cut into 1.5-inch chunks.

• Ghee or Oil: 3 tablespoons (ghee adds a traditional, nutty richness).

• Aromatics: 2 large red onions (finely chopped), 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste.

• Whole Spices: 2 bay leaves, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 green cardamom pods, 3 cloves.

• Ground Spices: 2 teaspoons ground cardamom, 1 teaspoon kashmiri chili powder, 1 teaspoon coriander, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric.

• The Creamy Base: 1 cup full-fat plain yogurt (whisked), 1/2 cup heavy cream.

• Finishers: Fresh cilantro, a pinch of garam masala, and a splash of lemon juice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to master this classic creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe right in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Sear the Lamb

Heat the ghee in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the lamb pieces until they develop a beautiful brown crust on all sides. This step is crucial for sealing in the juices. Remove the lamb and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, turn the heat down to medium. Add the whole spices (bay leaves, cinnamon, whole cardamom, and cloves) and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the finely chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn a deep golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Step 3: Bloom the Spices

Lower the heat and stir in the ground cardamom, kashmiri chili powder, coriander, turmeric, and a teaspoon of salt. Let the spices toast in the oil for about 1 minute to release their essential oils.

Step 4: Simmer and Tenderize

Return the seared lamb and any resting juices back to the pot. Toss well to coat the meat in the spice mixture. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the whisked yogurt to prevent it from curdling. Pour in 1 cup of warm water, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let this delicious creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lamb is incredibly tender.

Step 5: Finish with Cream

Once the meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender, stir in the heavy cream and a pinch of garam masala. Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes until the gravy thickens to your liking. Taste and adjust the salt as needed.

How to Serve Your Masterpiece

Garnish your freshly cooked creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe with a generous handful of chopped fresh cilantro and a delicate extra swirl of heavy cream.

We highly recommend serving this flavorful creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe alongside a steaming bed of fragrant basmati rice and warm, buttery garlic naan bread to scoop up every last drop of the luscious gravy. You can also pair this creamy cardamom lamb curry recipe with a cool cucumber raita to balance the warm, spiced notes of the cardamom. Enjoy!