Is Mutton Handi healthy?

Mutton Handi is a rich, indulgent dish. While mutton is a great source of protein, iron, and Vitamin B12, the dish is also high in saturated fats from ghee and cream. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, especially on special occasions.

Can I make this with chicken instead of mutton?

Yes, absolutely. You can use bone-in chicken. Follow the same recipe but reduce the slow-cooking time in Step 5 to about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

My gravy is not thick enough. What should I do?

If the gravy is too thin after adding the cashew paste, you can simmer it uncovered on low heat for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired consistency. The gravy will also thicken as it cools.

Can I cook Mutton Handi in a pressure cooker?

Yes, a pressure cooker can significantly reduce the cooking time. After completing Step 4, add the water, close the lid, and pressure cook on medium heat for 5-6 whistles (about 20-25 minutes). Let the pressure release naturally before proceeding with Step 6.

What can I serve with Mutton Handi?

Mutton Handi pairs beautifully with Indian breads like Garlic Naan, Tandoori Roti, or Lachha Paratha. It also goes well with steamed Basmati rice or Jeera Rice.

Home / Recipes / mughlai / Mutton Handi

mughlaiMediumnon vegetariangluten freesoy freelow carb

Mutton Handi

POPULARITY

0.0/5

TASTE SCORE

9/10

Tender, fall-off-the-bone mutton pieces simmered in a rich, creamy, and aromatic gravy. This classic Mughlai dish, traditionally cooked in an earthen pot (handi), is a luxurious treat perfect for special occasions.

PREP

25m

COOK

90m

SERVES

1.25 CUP

540 cal

SERVINGS

INSTRUCTIONS

7 steps. 90 minutes total.

7 STEPS

1
Step 1
- a.Marinate the Mutton
- b.In a large bowl, combine the mutton pieces, whisked curd, ginger garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and 1 tsp of salt.
- c.Mix thoroughly to ensure each piece of mutton is evenly coated.
- d.Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 2 hours at room temperature, or for best results, refrigerate overnight. If refrigerated, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Cashew Paste
- b.Drain the soaked cashew nuts.
- c.Transfer them to a small blender with 2-3 tablespoons of water.
- d.Blend to a very smooth, creamy paste. Scrape down the sides as needed. Set aside.
3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Onions
- b.Heat ghee in a handi or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- c.Add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, green cardamoms, and cloves. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until they release their aroma.
- d.Add the sliced onions and fry, stirring frequently, for 12-15 minutes until they are uniformly deep golden brown. This step is crucial for the flavor and color of the gravy.
4
Step 4
- a.Cook the Mutton and Masala
- b.Add the marinated mutton to the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear the mutton for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's browned on all sides.
- c.Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the coriander powder, cumin powder, and slit green chilies. Sauté for 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.
- d.Pour in the tomato puree and the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt. Mix well and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring, until the masala thickens and oil begins to separate at the edges.
5
Step 5
- a.Slow Cook the Curry
- b.Add 1.5 cups of warm water and stir to combine, scraping the bottom of the pot.
- c.Bring the curry to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to the lowest setting.
- d.Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for 60-75 minutes, or until the mutton is fork-tender. Stir every 15-20 minutes to prevent it from sticking.
6
Step 6
- a.Finish and Thicken the Gravy
- b.Once the mutton is tender, stir in the prepared cashew paste. Cook for another 5 minutes on low heat, stirring continuously, as the gravy thickens.
- c.Sprinkle in the garam masala and crushed kasuri methi. Mix well.
- d.Turn off the heat completely. Wait for a minute, then stir in the fresh cream for a rich, velvety finish. Do not boil after adding cream to prevent curdling.
7
Step 7
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Let the Mutton Handi rest for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- d.Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

PRO TIPS

What to keep in mind.

6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.

1
For the most tender mutton, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.
2
The secret to a rich, flavorful gravy is patiently browning the onions until they are deep golden. Do not rush this step.
3
Using bone-in mutton pieces adds significantly more depth and flavor to the gravy compared to boneless.
4
To save time, you can cook the mutton in a pressure cooker for 5-6 whistles after Step 4, then proceed with Step 6.
5
Always add the fresh cream after turning off the heat to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
6
If the gravy becomes too thick during simmering, add a splash of hot water to reach your desired consistency.

RECIPE VARIATIONS

Adapt it for your goals.

Protein Swap

Replace mutton with bone-in chicken pieces. Reduce the simmering time to 25-30 minutes as chicken cooks much faster.

Spicier Version

Increase the amount of red chili powder to 1.5 tsp and add 1-2 more slit green chilies for extra heat.

Nut Free

Nut-Free

For a nut-free version, you can substitute the cashew paste with 1/4 cup of thick, full-fat yogurt or 2 tablespoons of roasted gram flour (besan) mixed with water to form a paste.

Richer Gravy

For an even more decadent gravy, substitute 1/4 cup of the water with milk when simmering the mutton.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why this is on our healthy list.

muscle

Excellent Source of Protein

Mutton is a high-quality protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and overall body function.

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Rich in Iron

This dish provides a significant amount of heme iron from mutton, which is easily absorbed by the body and helps prevent anemia and boost energy levels.

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Immunity-Boosting Spices

The use of spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cloves provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that can help support a healthy immune system.

brain

Provides Healthy Fats

Ghee and cashew nuts contribute healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats, which are important for brain health and cellular function when consumed in moderation.

QUESTIONS?

Frequently asked questions

One serving of Mutton Handi (approximately 420g) contains around 550-650 calories, depending on the fat content of the mutton and the amount of ghee used.

PAIRS WELL WITH

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Mutton Handi

For 4 servings

7 steps. 90 minutes total.

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 5

Step 6

Step 7