Fragrant Curry

This gorgeous fragrant lamb curry takes a wee bit of time, but the result is absolutely worth it. Like all curries, the taste develops better with time, so don’t be afraid to make it a day in advance if you have guests coming over.

Serves 4–6

For the toasted spice rub

• 3 tbsp fennel seeds
• 3 tbsp cumin seeds
• 3 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2½ tsp fenugreek seeds
• 2½ tsp black peppercorns

Lightly toast all the ingredients, then grind in a mortar and pestle or small food processor. Use about half the spice mix to coat the lamb. Store the remaining mix in an airtight jar for another curry.

For the curry

• 1 clove
• ½ cinnamon stick
• 2 cardamom pods
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ tbsp butter
• 1 × 400 g tin chopped tomatoes
• 250 ml stock
• 1.2 kg diced lamb
• 1 small handful chopped mint
• 1 small handful chopped coriander
• 250 ml natural yoghurt
• Lime juice, to taste

Method

Preheat your oven to 170C. In a large casserole pan, melt the butter and fry the spice mixtures until it goes golden, stirring regularly. Add the tomatoes and the stock or water. Bring to the boil, cover with kitchen foil and place in the oven for 1 1/2 hours to intensify the flavours.

Remove the foil and continue to simmer on the stove until it thickens. This is your basic curry sauce.

Fry the lamb in a little olive oil until golden, then add to the curry sauce and simmer for around 1 hour or until tender.

Feel free to vary the curry by using diced chicken, prawns or paneer, or vegetables like silver beet, spinach, peas, cauliflower, fried aubergine, boiled potatoes, chickpeas or lentils.

Sprinkle with chopped coriander and mint and stir in the yoghurt. Season to taste and add a good squeeze of lime juice.