Mutton Gassi
A rich and aromatic Mangalorean curry featuring tender mutton pieces simmered in a fiery, tangy coconut-based gravy. This authentic recipe balances spice from roasted red chilies with the creaminess of coconut and a hint of tamarind.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 60 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Pressure Cook the Mutton
- b.In a pressure cooker, combine the mutton pieces, 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder, 1 tsp of salt, and 2 cups of water.
- c.Mix everything well. Secure the lid and pressure cook on medium heat for 5-6 whistles, or for about 20-25 minutes, until the mutton is tender and cooked through.
- d.Allow the pressure to release naturally. Once safe to open, set aside the cooked mutton along with its stock.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Gassi Masala Paste
- b.Heat a small pan over low heat. Dry roast the dried red chillies, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, black peppercorns, and fenugreek seeds for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant. Transfer to a plate to cool.
- c.In the same pan, add 1 tbsp of coconut oil. Add the chopped ginger, garlic, and one of the chopped onions. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the onion turns translucent and light brown.
- d.In a high-speed blender, combine the roasted spices, the sautéed onion mixture, grated coconut, and the remaining 1/2 tsp of turmeric powder.
- e.Squeeze the soaked tamarind to extract its pulp and add the pulp to the blender. Add about 1/2 cup of water.
- f.Blend everything to a very smooth, fine paste. Add a little more water if necessary to achieve a smooth consistency.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Curry Base
- b.Heat the remaining 2 tbsp of coconut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or kadai over medium heat.
- c.Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamom pods, and curry leaves. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the spices release their aroma.
- d.Add the remaining chopped onion and sauté for 6-7 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- e.Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and mushy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer the Curry
- b.Add the ground gassi masala paste to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the masala is well-cooked and oil begins to separate at the edges.
- c.Add the pressure-cooked mutton along with all of its stock to the pot. Add the remaining 1/2 tsp of salt (or to taste) and mix well.
- d.If the gravy is too thick, add up to 1/2 cup of warm water to reach your desired consistency. Bring the curry to a gentle boil.
- e.Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This allows the mutton to absorb the flavors of the masala.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat and garnish the curry with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Let the Mutton Gassi rest for at least 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld completely.
- d.Serve hot with traditional accompaniments like neer dosa, kori rotti, steamed rice, or appam.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor and vibrant red color, use Byadgi or Kashmiri red chilies.
- 2Roasting the spices on low heat is crucial to release their essential oils without burning them, which would make the curry bitter.
- 3Grind the masala paste as finely as possible for a smooth, creamy gravy.
- 4Using coconut oil enhances the traditional Mangalorean taste of the dish.
- 5The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to mature and deepen.
- 6Marinating the mutton with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, and salt for at least 30 minutes before cooking makes it more flavorful and tender.
- 7For a richer gravy, you can use thin coconut milk instead of water when grinding the masala.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace mutton with 400g of mushrooms, 2 cups of boiled chickpeas, or mixed vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Adjust cooking time accordingly, as vegetables cook much faster.
Chicken GassiChicken Gassi
Substitute mutton with 500g of bone-in chicken pieces. Reduce the pressure cooking time to 2-3 whistles (about 10-12 minutes).
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the number of dried red chillies to 12-15 or add a slit green chili along with the tomatoes for extra heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Mutton is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.
Boosts Immunity
The spices used, such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, and black pepper, are known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect the body against infections.
Source of Iron
This dish provides a good amount of heme iron from the mutton, which is easily absorbed by the body and helps in preventing anemia and boosting energy levels.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Mutton Gassi contains approximately 450-550 calories, depending on the fat content of the mutton and the amount of oil used.
