Secret Rogan Josh Recipe: Better than any Restaurant

Step 1 (Smoking Oil): Heat mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pot until it smokes. Turn off the heat and let it cool for 2 minutes (this removes the pungent smell).

Step 2 (Searing Meat): Turn on the heat again. Add whole spices (cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf) and hing. Add the meat pieces and sear on high heat for 5-7 minutes until they turn brown.

Step 3 (The Color): Add the Kashmiri chili powder paste (diluted in water). This prevents the chili from burning. Sauté for 2 minutes until the oil turns a deep red.

Step 4 (Yogurt Base): Lower the heat. Slowly add the whisked yogurt while stirring continuously to prevent it from curdling. Cook until the oil separates.

Step 5 (Aromatic Spices): Add fennel powder and dry ginger powder. Mix well. Add 1.5 cups of warm water and salt.

Step 6 (The Slow Cook): Cover and cook on low heat for 45-60 minutes until the meat is tender and falls off the bone. Do not use a pressure cooker if you want the authentic texture.

Step 7 (Final Touch): If using saffron, dissolve it in a spoon of warm water and add it at the end. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 8 (Serving): Serve hot with plain steamed Basmati rice (Kashmiri style).