Mutton gravy prepared in the Pakistani style is a sumptuous dish that exemplifies the rich and aromatic flavors of the region’s cuisine. This dish typically consists of tender mutton pieces cooked in a flavorful and spicy gravy. Here’s a simple yet detailed description:
The preparation begins with marinating the mutton pieces in a mixture of yogurt, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This not only imparts a delightful tenderness to the meat but also infuses it with a delightful depth of flavor.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or pressure cooker, you’ll heat up either cooking oil or ghee (clarified butter). Ghee is favored for its rich and nutty taste, but oil works well too.
The next step involves adding cumin seeds to the hot oil or ghee, allowing them to sizzle and release their aromatic essence. This simple step is essential to building the foundational flavors of the dish.
Finely chopped onions are then sautéed in the pan until they reach a beautiful golden-brown hue, a process that takes about 10-12 minutes. This caramelization of onions contributes to the dish’s deep and savory undertones.
Once the onions are perfectly browned, it’s time to introduce a medley of spices: coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. These spices are stirred in, creating a fragrant and spicy base for the gravy. The spices are allowed to cook for a few minutes until they release their captivating aroma.
Next, finely chopped tomatoes are added to the mix. These tomatoes soften and blend with the spiced onion mixture, creating a luscious and slightly tangy backdrop for the mutton.
The marinated mutton is then added to the pan, and it’s stirred to coat the meat with the fragrant masala. As the mutton cooks, it changes color and begins to absorb the rich flavors of the spices and other ingredients.
The final touch is the addition of green chilies and a sprinkle of garam masala for that distinctive, spicy kick and aromatic finish. The dish simmers until the mutton becomes tender and the flavors meld together harmoniously.
Garnish your Pakistani-style mutton gravy with fresh coriander leaves, which add a burst of freshness and color to the dish. This flavorful mutton gravy is typically served with steamed rice or naan bread, making it a favorite in Pakistani households and a testament to the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the region.
