A rich and deeply spiced Lamb Curry is the kind of dish that transforms any evening into something special. With melt-in-your-mouth lamb simmered in a velvety sauce of tomatoes, onions, and aromatic spices, it’s a hearty and comforting recipe that fills your kitchen with the most tantalizing aromas.


This dish is rooted in traditional Indian flavors, bringing a warming depth thanks to slow cooking. Whether you’re new to curries or a longtime fan, this Lamb Curry promises a robust experience with every bite. Perfect for a cozy night in or to impress at a dinner party.
What Kind of Lamb Should I Use?
For a tender and flavorful curry, use lamb shoulder or leg, cut into chunks. These cuts have enough fat and connective tissue to become beautifully soft after slow cooking. Boneless or bone-in both work—bone-in adds even more richness to the sauce.
Ingredients for the Lamb Curry
Lamb: The star of the dish. Opt for shoulder or leg cuts that break down and become tender with long cooking.
Onions: Caramelized onions build the flavor base of the curry and add natural sweetness.
Garlic and Ginger: Essential for that authentic curry depth—they bring aroma and sharp heat.
Tomatoes: Crushed or fresh tomatoes add tang, color, and body to the sauce.
Yogurt: Helps tenderize the lamb and gives the sauce a creamy consistency.
Spices (Turmeric, Cumin, Coriander, Garam Masala, Chili Powder): These create the bold curry profile, each spice adding warmth and complexity.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves add a final fresh touch and color contrast.
Oil or Ghee: Used to sauté and deepen flavor through slow cooking.
Salt: Essential to balance all the spices and enhance overall taste.
How To Make the Lamb Curry
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
Heat oil or ghee in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown—this could take 10-15 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s key to rich flavor.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Add turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Stir and let the spices bloom for about a minute.
Step 4: Add the Lamb
Add the lamb pieces and sear on all sides until lightly browned. This step locks in flavor.
Step 5: Tomato & Simmering
Pour in crushed tomatoes and a splash of water. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the lamb is fork-tender.
Step 6: Final Touches
Stir in the yogurt and garam masala. Let simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

How to Serve and Store Lamb Curry
Serve your Lamb Curry piping hot with basmati rice, warm naan, or roti to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce. A drizzle of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the richness beautifully.
To store, cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavor deepens over time, making leftovers even better. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—perfect for make-ahead meals.
What to Serve With Lamb Curry?
Fragrant Basmati Rice
Fluffy, long-grain basmati rice makes a neutral base that lets the curry flavors shine.
Garlic Naan
Warm, buttery naan is perfect for scooping up every drop of the rich curry sauce.
Cooling Cucumber Raita
Yogurt-based raita with cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to the heat of the curry.
Mango Chutney
A spoonful on the side adds sweetness and a tangy balance.
Sautéed Spinach with Garlic
A quick, healthy veggie option that doesn’t compete with the bold curry flavors.
Want More Dinner Ideas?
If you love this Lamb Curry, you’ll probably enjoy these comforting and flavorful dinner recipes too:
- Try this creamy and savory Cheeseburger Soup for a hearty American twist.
- This cozy Easy Shepherd’s Pie is another must-try comfort food.
- Looking for something lighter but satisfying? Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet is a weeknight favorite.
- Spice things up with Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce.
- Or go classic with a Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings dish that’s full of old-school comfort.
Save This Pin For Later
Pin this rich and aromatic Lamb Curry to your favorite recipe board, so you can return when you’re ready to cook up something unforgettable.
Tried your own twist? Maybe you added coconut milk or extra chili? Let us know in the comments!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite recipe is just a click away.
Lamb Curry
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Ready to bring big flavor to your dinner table? This Lamb Curry recipe is a rich, hearty dish featuring tender lamb slow-cooked in a deeply spiced tomato-based sauce. It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you want to impress with something aromatic and satisfying. With bold Indian-inspired spices, creamy yogurt, and a slow-simmered depth, this easy dinner idea pairs wonderfully with rice, naan, or a side of raita. Whether you’re looking for comfort food ideas or new dinner inspiration, this curry hits all the right notes for meat lovers and curry fans alike.
Ingredients
500g lamb shoulder or leg, cubed
2 tablespoons oil or ghee
2 large onions, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 cup crushed tomatoes
0.5 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
0.5 cup water (optional for thinning sauce)
Instructions
1. Heat oil or ghee in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until golden brown (10–15 mins).
2. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Stir to bloom spices.
4. Add lamb pieces and sear until browned on all sides.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and water. Simmer on low for 1.5–2 hours until lamb is tender.
6. Stir in yogurt and garam masala. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end.
Bone-in lamb will deepen the flavor even more if you don’t mind a bit of extra prep.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: lamb curry, Indian curry, dinner ideas, easy recipe, comfort food
