How to Make a Traditional On-the-Bone Lamb Curry

Introduction

When you want a dish that’s bold, hearty, and layered with deep, warming spices, this Easy On-the-Bone Lamb Curryis exactly what to make. Featuring tender chunks of bone-in lamb simmered low and slow in a rich tomato-yogurt base, it’s the kind of curry that fills your kitchen with intoxicating aroma and your bowl with pure comfort.

This recipe honors the tradition of slow cooking while keeping the method simple enough for a weekend dinner or special gathering. Bonus: it’s even better the next day.


Why I Love This Recipe

This lamb curry is:

  • Comforting and hearty, with melt-in-your-mouth meat
  • Infused with classic Indian spices and depth from yogurt and broth
  • one-pot meal that simmers to perfection with little hands-on time
  • Easily adaptable with the option of adding potatoes for extra body
  • Perfect for meal prep and freezer-friendly

It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to sop up every drop with warm naan or a mound of fluffy basmati rice.


Ingredients

For the Curry:

  • 2 lbs (900g) lamb on the bone, cut into chunks 🥩
  • 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or ghee)
  • 2 onions, chopped 🧅
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
  • 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped 🍅
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 2 potatoes, cubed (optional) 🥔

Spices:

  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1½ tsp garam masala
  • 1½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste) 🌶️
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste 🧂

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Sauté the Base

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until golden and fragrant—about 5–7 minutes.

2️⃣ Brown the Lamb

Add bone-in lamb pieces and season with salt and pepper.
Sear the meat until browned on all sides—5–8 minutes.

3️⃣ Spice & Simmer

Stir in:

  • Chopped tomatoes
  • All spices
  • Yogurt

Mix well, scraping the bottom to release all flavor.
Let cook for 5 minutes, then add water or broth and stir.

4️⃣ Slow Cook

Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5–2 hours, until the lamb is fork-tender.
If using potatoes, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

💡 Tip: Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if it gets too thick.

5️⃣ Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot with steamed rice or naan, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.


Tips for Success

💡 Use bone-in cuts like lamb shoulder or neck for max flavor
💡 For a richer texture, use Greek yogurt and cook uncovered at the end to reduce
💡 Make it ahead—the flavors deepen overnight
💡 Want it spicier? Add a whole green chili or extra chili powder


Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair this curry with:

  • Basmati or jasmine rice
  • Garlic naan or roti
  • A simple cucumber raita
  • Pickled onions or mango chutney

Pair with:


Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freeze for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge
  • Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed

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Final Thoughts

This Easy On-the-Bone Lamb Curry is deeply satisfying, boldly flavored, and soul-warming in every way. Whether you’re new to curry or a seasoned spice-lover, this recipe delivers cozy depth and authentic flavor with very little fuss.

Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your curry night creation! Follow for more one-pot meals, slow-cooked classics, and globally inspired comfort food made easy.