Afghan Lamb and Chickpea Curry
Ghormeh Nakhod
A hearty and flavorful curry featuring tender lamb, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is a comforting staple in Afghan cuisine, often served with rice.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb shoulder(cut into 2-inch cubes)
- 400 g Chickpeas(canned, drained and rinsed, or 1 cup dried, soaked overnight and cooked)
- 2 large Onions(finely chopped)
- 800 g Tomatoes(crushed or pureed)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger(grated)
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoons Coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam masala
- 3 tablespoons Vegetable oil or Ghee
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 cups Water or Lamb broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat oil or ghee in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb cubes on all sides. Remove lamb and set aside.
- 2
Add chopped onions to the pot and sauté until softened and lightly golden. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- 4
Return the browned lamb to the pot. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Pour in water or lamb broth, ensuring the lamb is mostly submerged.
- 5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the lamb is tender.
- 6
Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- 7
Stir in garam masala. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- 8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro before serving hot with rice or naan.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use lamb broth instead of water.
- ✓If using dried chickpeas, ensure they are fully cooked before adding to the curry.
- ✓Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- ✓This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced potatoes or carrots along with the chickpeas for a heartier stew.
- A pinch of red chili flakes can be added for a touch of heat.
- For a smoother sauce, blend a portion of the cooked chickpeas and return to the pot.