Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh is a rich, aromatic curry made with tender lamb simmered in a tomato-yoghurt base and infused with warming spices. It’s bold, comforting, and perfect for anyone who loves deep Indian-style flavours with soft, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
This Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh recipe serves 4–6 people and takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the lamb cut. Below is a complete guide to help you build flavour, toast the spices correctly, and achieve the deep, signature colour and aroma of a classic Rogan Josh.

What Makes This Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh Worth Making

Deep, rich flavour – Layers of spices create an authentic curry taste.
Slow-cooked tenderness – Lamb becomes soft, juicy, and full of flavour.
Restaurant-style curry at home – Big flavours without complicated steps.
Customisable heat level – Easy to make mild, medium, or hot.
Perfect for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh?

Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked Indian-style lamb curry made with onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, yoghurt, and aromatic spices. It’s simmered until the lamb turns tender and the sauce develops a deep red colour typical of traditional Rogan Josh.

Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh Ingredients List

800g lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
3 tablespoons oil or ghee
2 onions, finely sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 tablespoons tomato purée
1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
½ cup plain yoghurt (room temperature)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
½–1 teaspoon chilli powder (to taste)
1 cinnamon stick
3–4 cardamom pods
400ml lamb or chicken stock
Salt and pepper
Fresh coriander for garnish
Optional: 1 tablespoon butter for richness

How to Prepare Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh – Simple Steps

1. Brown the Lamb

Heat the oil in a large pot and brown the lamb on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Onions

Add more oil if needed and cook the onions until golden and soft.

3. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices

Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, chilli powder, cinnamon stick, and cardamom. Cook for 30 seconds to release aroma.

4. Stir in Tomato Purée

Add tomato purée and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavour.

5. Add Tomatoes and Yoghurt

Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Add yogurt gradually while stirring so it doesn’t split.

6. Return the Lamb to the Pot

Place the browned lamb back in and mix well.

7. Add Stock and Simmer

Pour in stock, season with salt and pepper, cover, and simmer for 1½–2 hours until the lamb is completely tender.

8. Finish and Serve

Stir in garam masala at the end. Garnish with fresh coriander. Serve hot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh

Adding yoghurt too quickly can cause it to split.
Not browning the lamb reduces flavour depth.
Using lean lamb leads to dry and tough meat.
Rushing the simmering time prevents proper tenderness.
Adding spices without sautéing makes the curry taste raw.

Delicious Side Dishes to Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh

Basmati rice – A fragrant and simple pairing.
Garlic naan – Perfect for scooping up the curry.
Paratha – Adds buttery layers to the meal.
Cucumber raita – Helps cool the spices.
Onion salad – Adds fresh crunch.

Expert Tips to Get Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh Just Right

Toast the spices well – Essential for authentic flavour.
Use lamb shoulder – Stays juicy during long cooking.
Simmer low and slow – This gives the curry its deep flavour.
Add garam masala at the end – Keeps its aroma fresh.
Rest the curry before serving – The sauce thickens and flavour improves.

How to Add More Flavour to Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh

Add Kashmiri chilli powder – Enhances colour without adding too much heat.
Use bone-in lamb – Gives a stronger flavour.
Add roasted garlic – Brings sweetness and depth.
Use ghee instead of oil – Adds richness.
Finish with butter – Creates a silkier sauce.

How to Adjust Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh for Kids

Reduce chilli powder, use mild paprika, and blend a portion of the sauce for a smoother texture.

Best Way to Store Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh Leftovers

Cool fully first
Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days
Freeze for 2 months without losing texture or flavour

Best Ways to Reheat Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh Leftovers

Stovetop: Reheat slowly on low heat.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Add a splash of stock: Helps loosen the sauce if it thickens.

Nutritional Value (Per Serving)

Calories: ~420
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 22g
Fibre: 4g

FAQs

What cut of lamb is best for Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh?

Lamb shoulder is the best cut for Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh because it becomes tender during slow cooking and absorbs the spices well. Lamb leg or bone-in pieces also work if you prefer a richer flavour.

How do I stop yoghurt from splitting in Lamb Rogan Josh?

To prevent yoghurt from splitting, keep it at room temperature, whisk it before adding, and stir it into the curry slowly over low heat. Avoid adding it when the pot is boiling, as high heat causes curdling.

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s Lamb Rogan Josh without tomatoes?

Yes, you can reduce or skip tomatoes by increasing yoghurt, adding more stock, or using a small amount of coconut milk. The curry will be milder and creamier, but still flavourful.

Does Lamb Rogan Josh taste better the next day?

Yes, Lamb Rogan Josh tastes even better the next day because the spices deepen and the sauce thickens overnight. Reheating gently helps the flavours blend beautifully.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver Lamb Rogan Josh is a bold, aromatic curry that showcases tender lamb, warming spices, and a rich, slow-cooked sauce. It’s a perfect dish for anyone who enjoys comfort food with big flavour and an authentic touch.

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