Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry is a rich and aromatic dish that combines tender lamb with a medley of spices for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners, this curry is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in meat that melts in your mouth. Ready in under two hours, this dish is a flavorful journey into the heart of Indian-inspired cuisine.
What is Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry?
Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry is a traditional Indian-style dish made by simmering lamb in a richly spiced gravy. Featuring layers of flavors from fresh herbs, warm spices, and creamy yogurt, it’s a comforting and hearty curry that pairs beautifully with rice or bread.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Authentic Flavors: A blend of Indian spices delivers depth and complexity.
- Slow-Cooked Perfection: Tender, juicy lamb infused with rich flavors.
- Versatile Pairing: Perfect with rice, naan, or a side of vegetables.
- Great for Entertaining: A standout dish for family meals or dinner parties.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
Ingredients Needed for Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry
- Lamb shoulder: 1 kg, cut into chunks
- Onions: 2 large, finely sliced
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Ginger: 2-inch piece, grated
- Tomatoes: 3 large, chopped
- Plain yogurt: 200ml, for richness
- Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons, for frying
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1 tablespoon
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Bay leaves: 2, for aroma
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh coriander: A handful, chopped for garnish
- Water or lamb stock: 400ml, for cooking
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and chopping board
- Grater
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
Instructions to Make Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry
- Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaves, cooking until fragrant.
- Cook the onions: Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until aromatic.
- Incorporate the spices: Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for a minute to release their flavors.
- Add tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened and the oil begins to separate.
- Brown the lamb: Add the lamb chunks and stir to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the lamb starts to brown.
- Add yogurt and stock: Stir in the yogurt gradually, then pour in the water or lamb stock. Mix well and season with salt.
- Simmer the curry: Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander on top before serving hot with rice or naan.

What to Serve With Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry
- Steamed Basmati Rice: A classic pairing that complements the curry perfectly.
- Naan Bread: Ideal for scooping up the rich, flavorful gravy.
- Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side dish to balance the spices.
- Pickles and Chutneys: Add a tangy and sweet contrast.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Lamb Curry
- Use lamb shoulder: It’s the best cut for tender and juicy results.
- Cook onions thoroughly: Golden onions form the flavorful base of the curry.
- Adjust spices to taste: Customize the spice level by modifying chili powder.
- Don’t rush the simmering: Slow cooking allows the lamb to absorb the spices.
- Fresh herbs are key: Garnish with coriander for a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Make it ahead: The flavors intensify when the curry is reheated the next day.
What are Variations of Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry?
- Add potatoes: Include chunks of potatoes for a hearty one-pot meal.
- Use coconut milk: Replace yogurt with coconut milk for a creamier texture.
- Incorporate spinach: Add fresh spinach leaves for a nutritious twist.
- Make it spicy: Add extra chili powder or fresh green chilies for more heat.
How Do I Store Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry?
- Refrigerate in an airtight container: Store for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for later: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
How Do I Reheat Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry?
- On the stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- In the microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring halfway through.
- Add a splash of water: If the curry thickens, add a little water or stock to loosen the gravy.
How Can I Make Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry Healthier?
- Use less oil: Reduce the amount of oil in the recipe.
- Opt for leaner lamb: Trim excess fat from the lamb shoulder.
- Add vegetables: Include carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Serve with brown rice: Swap basmati rice for a fiber-rich option.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry
Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry is a traditional Indian-style dish made by simmering lamb in a richly spiced gravy. Featuring layers of flavors from fresh herbs, warm spices, and creamy yogurt, it’s a comforting and hearty curry that pairs beautifully with rice or bread.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 120
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow-cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- Lamb shoulder: 1 kg, cut into chunks
- Onions: 2 large, finely sliced
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced
- Ginger: 2-inch piece, grated
- Tomatoes: 3 large, chopped
- Plain yogurt: 200ml, for richness
- Vegetable oil: 3 tablespoons, for frying
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1 tablespoon
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
- Red chili powder: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Bay leaves: 2, for aroma
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh coriander: A handful, chopped for garnish
- Water or lamb stock: 400ml, for cooking
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaves, cooking until fragrant.
- Cook the onions: Add the sliced onions and sauté until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until aromatic.
- Incorporate the spices: Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, garam masala, and chili powder. Cook for a minute to release their flavors.
- Add tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened and the oil begins to separate.
- Brown the lamb: Add the lamb chunks and stir to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the lamb starts to brown.
- Add yogurt and stock: Stir in the yogurt gradually, then pour in the water or lamb stock. Mix well and season with salt.
- Simmer the curry: Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the lamb is tender.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander on top before serving hot with rice or naan.
Final Words
Rick Stein’s Lamb Curry is a hearty, aromatic dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. With its tender lamb, richly spiced gravy, and vibrant garnishes, this curry is sure to become a favorite. Serve with rice or naan and enjoy a taste of authentic Indian-inspired cuisine!