Dashain, the grandest and most significant festival in Nepal, is synonymous with family gatherings and lavish feasts. During this special occasion, the aroma of scrumptious dishes wafts through the air, but one dish that truly stands out is mutton curry. This rich and aromatic curry is a must-have on the Dashain menu. If you’re looking to prepare this delectable dish for your loved ones, we’ve got the perfect recipe for you.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams of mutton (bone-in pieces)
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, pureed
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4-5 cloves
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• Salt to taste
• Cooking oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marination: Start by marinating the mutton pieces with yogurt, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight, in the refrigerator.
2. Heat the Pan: Heat some oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan. Add the bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, and green cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute until they release their aroma.
3. Add Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
4. Add Ginger and Garlic: Toss in the minced ginger and garlic, and sauté for a few more minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Spices: Add the cumin seeds, coriander powder, cumin powder, and red chili powder. Stir well and cook for a couple of minutes until the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
6. Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates. Stir occasionally.
7. Mutton: Add the marinated mutton pieces and sear them until they turn brown. This step helps seal in the flavors.
8. Add Water: Pour enough water to cover the mutton. Season with salt and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the mutton is tender. This may take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the meat’s quality.
9. Finishing Touch: Once the mutton is tender and the curry has thickened, garnish it with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice.

This Mutton Curry recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and a Dashain favorite. The tender mutton infused with a medley of aromatic spices and creamy tomato gravy is sure to leave your family and friends asking for seconds. Celebrate Dashain with this mouthwatering delight and enjoy the festivities to the fullest!

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