Welcome to the delightful world of Mutton Rezala! This delicious dish hails from the cuisines of India and Bangladesh, particularly popular in Bengali cooking. Mutton Rezala is not just a meal; it’s a journey through history and culture. This dish is known for its rich and creamy gravy, aromatic spices, and tender pieces of mutton that melt in your mouth.
Historically, Mutton Rezala was served at royal feasts and special occasions, making it a symbol of hospitality and celebration. Today, it remains a favorite for family gatherings and festive celebrations. The reason behind its popularity lies in the layers of flavor, warmth, and comfort it brings to the table. So, let’s dive in and learn how to create this wonderful dish right at home!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Mutton (bone-in is best) | 1 kg |
| Onions (sliced) | 2 large |
| Ginger-garlic paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Yogurt (plain) | 1 cup |
| Garam masala | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Green cardamom | 4-5 pods |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 inch |
| Cloves | 4-5 |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Cooking oil or ghee | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish) | 1/4 cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the mutton: Start by washing the mutton pieces thoroughly. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
- Marinate: In a large bowl, mix the mutton with yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the fridge for better flavor.
- Sauté onions: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the cooking oil or ghee. Add the sliced onions and fry until they turn golden brown. This may take about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally!
- Add spices: Increase the heat to medium-high, and add green cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Cook the mutton: Add the marinated mutton to the pan. Stir well to coat the meat with the onion and spices. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the mutton to sear.
- Simmer: Pour in enough water to cover the mutton. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the mutton is tender. Stir occasionally and add water if it looks dry.
- Finish: Once the mutton is cooked, check the seasoning and adjust salt if needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot: Enjoy Mutton Rezala with steamed basmati rice or naan!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 25 g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g | 3% |
| Fats | 25 g | 38% |
| Fiber | 1 g | 4% |
| Sugar | 2 g | 2% |
Tips and Tricks
- Marinate longer: For the richest flavor, let the mutton marinate overnight.
- Use ghee: Cooking with ghee instead of oil will give a more traditional taste.
- Adjust spiciness: Modify the amount of red chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
- Don’t rush cooking: Slow cooking is key to tender mutton and rich flavors.
FAQs
What type of mutton should I use for Mutton Rezala?
It’s best to use bone-in mutton for this recipe, as it tends to be more flavorful and gives a rich broth.
Can I make Mutton Rezala in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time. Cook for about 20-25 minutes after the first whistle.
Is Mutton Rezala spicy?
You can control the level of spices by adjusting the amount of red chili powder you use. It can be flavorful without being too spicy!
What can I serve with Mutton Rezala?
Mutton Rezala pairs well with steamed basmati rice, naan, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of salad or raita.
Can I use other meats instead of mutton?
Yes, you can use chicken or beef as alternatives, but cooking times may vary.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze Mutton Rezala?
Yes, Mutton Rezala freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
What spices are essential for Mutton Rezala?
The essential spices include garam masala, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves—these create the unique flavor profile of the dish.
How can I make Mutton Rezala more flavorful?
Using fresh spices and letting the meat marinate overnight will enhance the flavors significantly!
Is Mutton Rezala suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! It is a popular choice for festivals, weddings, and family gatherings.
Can I add vegetables to Mutton Rezala?
While traditional Mutton Rezala does not include vegetables, you can add peas or potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
With its rich flavors and aromatic spices, Mutton Rezala is a dish that brings warmth to any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a family dinner, this recipe will surely impress everyone at your table. Go ahead, give it a try, and savor each bite of this culinary delight!
