How to Make Bengali Style Kosha Mangsho (Mutton Curry) at Home

Bengali cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, and one of the most beloved among them is Kosha Mangsho, a traditional mutton curry that is slow-cooked to perfection. This iconic dish is a staple in Bengali households and is often served during special occasions and festivals. With its tender mutton pieces simmered in a fragrant and spicy gravy, Kosha Mangsho is a true delight for the senses. Follow this authentic recipe to recreate the magic of Bengali cuisine in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams mutton, cut into pieces
• 3 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 3-4 green chilies, slit
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 4-5 cloves
• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 tablespoons mustard oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Mutton:

• In a large bowl, combine the mutton pieces with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt.
• Mix well to ensure that the mutton pieces are evenly coated with the spices.
• Cover the bowl and let the mutton marinate for at least 1-2 hours, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Masala Paste:

• Heat a pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of mustard oil.
• Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown and caramelized.
• Remove the onions from the pan and allow them to cool slightly.
• Once cooled, transfer the onions to a blender along with the tomatoes, green chilies, and a splash of water.
• Blend until you get a smooth masala paste. Set aside for later use.

3. Cook the Mutton:

• Heat the remaining mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or pressure cooker over medium heat.
• Add the bay leaves, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick to the pan and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
• Add the marinated mutton pieces to the pan and cook until they are browned on all sides, stirring occasionally.
• Once the mutton is browned, add the prepared masala paste to the pan and mix well to combine.
• Cook the masala and mutton together for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala and the raw smell disappears.
• If using a pressure cooker, add 1-2 cups of water at this stage, depending on the desired consistency of the curry. If using a regular pan, add enough water to cover the mutton pieces.
• Close the pressure cooker lid and cook the mutton on medium heat for about 4-5 whistles, or until the mutton is tender and cooked through. If using a regular pan, cover with a lid and simmer the curry until the mutton is tender, stirring occasionally.

4. Finish and Serve:

• Once the mutton is cooked, open the pressure cooker lid and check for seasoning. Adjust salt and spice levels if necessary.
• Sprinkle garam masala powder over the curry and give it a final stir.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and remove from heat.
• Serve hot with steamed rice, pulao, or paratha, and enjoy the delicious flavors of this authentic Bengali delicacy.

Tips:

• For best results, use freshly ground whole spices for a more intense flavor.
• Slow-cooking the mutton curry enhances the flavors and tenderizes the meat, so be patient and allow it to cook on low heat.
• Adjust the spiciness of the curry according to your taste preferences by adding more or fewer green chilies and red chili powder.
• Leftover Kosha Mangsho tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, so feel free to make a large batch and enjoy it over multiple meals.

Conclusion:

Kosha Mangsho is a quintessential Bengali dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the region. With its tender mutton pieces simmered in a spicy and aromatic gravy, it is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow this authentic recipe, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of Bengali cuisine right in your own home.