Lamb Dalcha (Indian Lamb Lentil Based Stew)

Ingredients

• 500 g lamb bones (or meat of choice)
• 3 tbsp oil (divided)
• 3 tbsp curry powder
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 1 cup yellow or orange lentils (washed & boiled in 1 lt of water for 20-45 mins depending on type)
• 2 lt water
• 1 tbsp tamarind paste
• 2 tsp salt (to taste)
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon
• 2 cloves
• 10 curry leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   --- Steps ---

2. 2

   Blend aromatics into a fine puree & set aside.

3. 3

   Heat a large pot on medium high & add 1 tbsp of oil.

4. 4

   When hot, add lamb bones & sear for 10 mins till sides are browned.

5. 5

   Add water & boil for 1 hr.

6. 6

   In a separate pot on medium high heat, add 2 tbsp of oil followed by whole spices.

7. 7

   Fry for 1 min then add blended aromatics & fry for 2 mins.

8. 8

   Add sliced onions, fry for 2 mins, add curry powder & fry for 2 mins.

9. 9

   Add the lamb bones & stock, bring to a boil.

10. 10

    Add potatoes & carrots, bring to a boil.

11. 11

    Add eggplant & lentils, bring to a boil.

12. 12

    Add tamarind paste, salt, beans, tomatoes, chillies & plums, bring to a boil.

13. 13

    Taste to adjust seasoning & cook till vegetables are tender (but not mushy)

14. 14

    Transfer to a large serving bowl, along with rice or bread of choice.