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Transport your taste buds to the heart of Bihar with this Bihari Mutton Curry, a rich and aromatic dish featuring tender mutton slow-cooked with whole garlic pods and bold spices. The smoky mustard oil, caramelized onions, and soft, flavorful garlic create a curry that’s both rustic and unforgettable. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend meal, this authentic recipe pairs beautifully with steamed rice, litti, or paratha. Let’s dive into this soul-warming dish that’s sure to impress! #recipeshare

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

For Marination

• 500g mutton (with bone, cut into medium pieces)
• 2 tbsp mustard oil
• ½ cup thick, fresh curd (yogurt)
• 1 small whole garlic pod (peeled, cloves left whole)
• 1-inch piece ginger, crushed
• 4 green chillies, slit
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• Salt, to taste

For Curry

• 3–4 tbsp mustard oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 black cardamom
• 2 green cardamoms
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 small tomato, finely chopped (optional, for slight tanginess)
• 1–1.5 cups hot water (adjust for desired gravy thickness)
• ½ tsp garam masala

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl (for marination)
• Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Marinate the Mutton:

• In a large bowl, combine mutton with curd, mustard oil, whole garlic cloves, crushed ginger, slit green chillies, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt.
• Mix thoroughly with your hands to ensure the mutton is evenly coated. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator (overnight for deeper flavor).

1. Prepare the Curry Base:

• Heat 3–4 tbsp mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over high heat until it reaches its smoking point. Reduce heat slightly and let it cool for a moment, then reheat to medium.
• Add bay leaf, black cardamom, green cardamoms, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Let them sizzle for 10–15 seconds to release their aroma.
• Add sliced onions and fry on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown (about 10–15 minutes).

1. Cook the Mutton:

• Add the marinated mutton along with all its marinade to the pot.
• Sear (bhuno) on medium heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the mixture. This step is key for rich flavor.

1. Simmer the Curry:

• (Optional) If using a tomato, add the finely chopped tomato now and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
• Pour in 1–1.5 cups hot water, depending on your preferred gravy thickness.
• Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the mutton is tender and the gravy thickens. The garlic cloves should be soft and infused with flavor.

1. Finish and Serve:

• Sprinkle garam masala over the curry, stir well, and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes. The oil should float on top, indicating a well-cooked curry.
• Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Serve hot with steamed rice, litti, or plain paratha for an authentic Bihari experience.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 600mg (varies based on salt and ingredients)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tips for the Best Bihari Mutton Curry

• Mustard Oil is Key: Its pungent, smoky flavor is essential for authenticity. If unavailable, substitute with ghee or vegetable oil, but the taste will differ slightly.
• Marinate Longer: Overnight marination tenderizes the mutton and enhances flavor absorption.
• Low and Slow: Slow-cooking ensures tender mutton and soft, flavorful garlic pods. Don’t rush this step.
• Adjust Spice: Reduce green chillies or red chilli powder for a milder curry, or add more for extra heat.
• Whole Garlic Pods: Keep the garlic cloves whole to infuse the curry with a subtle, sweet flavor without overpowering it.
• Prevent Sticking: Stir occasionally during simmering and add a splash of water if the curry thickens too much.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the gravy, or microwave for 2–3 minutes.
• Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Traditional: Serve with steamed basmati rice, litti (Bihari stuffed dough balls), or plain paratha for an authentic meal.
• Sides: Pair with a cooling cucumber raita or a simple kachumber salad (onion, tomato, cucumber) to balance the spices.
• Modern Twist: Enjoy with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Why You Hawkins This Recipe

• Authentic Bihari Flavors: The smoky mustard oil, whole garlic pods, and slow-cooked spices create a true taste of Bihar.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Perfect for meat lovers and special occasions.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking process make it approachable for home cooks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress guests and family alike.

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Tags: Bihari Mutton Curry, Indian Recipes, Mutton Recipes, Spicy Curry, Slow-Cooked Curry, Authentic Indian Food

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