Dhabe Da Meat is a classic dish that reminds me of road trips across Punjab, where small roadside restaurants (dhabas) serve some of the best mutton curry you’ll ever taste. This homestyle version captures those same bold flavors using basic ingredients and simple cooking methods. The meat turns out tender and juicy, while the gravy is packed with the warmth of Indian spices.
About the Recipe
This recipe takes the mystery out of making restaurant-style mutton curry. The meat is first marinated in yogurt and spices, making it tender and flavorful. Then it’s cooked with onions, tomatoes, and whole spices until the gravy thickens just right. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas and makes everyone ask, “When’s dinner ready?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the gravy has just the right balance of spices. The recipe is forgiving – you don’t need exact measurements to get great results. It’s also a one-pot dish, so cleanup is easy. The leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors develop further. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with your cooking skills.
Dhabe Da Meat
Cooking Tips
– Cut the meat pieces evenly for consistent cooking
– Don’t rush the onion browning stage – it builds flavor
– Let the meat marinate longer if you have time
– Keep stirring gently to prevent the gravy from sticking
– Add a splash more water if the gravy gets too thick
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 4-5 people. Total prep and cooking time: 2 hours (including marination). Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed.
Similar Recipes
- Railway Mutton Curry
- Bhuna Gosht
- Mutton Rogan Josh
- Dhaba Style Chicken Curry
Nutrient Benefits
Mutton is rich in protein, iron, and vitamin B12. The yogurt adds calcium and probiotics, while the spices offer antioxidant properties. Ginger and garlic provide immune-boosting compounds. The dish is naturally gluten-free and can be part of a balanced diet.
Dhabe Da Meat
Ingredients
- 250 gms Mutton (chopped into bite sized pieces) chopped into bite sized pieces
- 1/2 cup Yogurt
- 1/2 tsp Red Chilli Powder
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1/2 tsp Cumin Powder
- 1/2 tsp Coriander Powder
- 3 tbsp Oil
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 2 Cloves
- 2 Green Cardamoms
- 1/2 cup Onion (chopped)
- 3/4 tbsp Ginger (chopped)
- 1/2 tbsp Garlic (chopped)
- 1/2 tbsp Coriander Leaves
- 1 Tomato (chopped)
- 2 Green Chillies (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Garam Masala Powder
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder and salt.
- Add the mutton pieces and mix well.
- Keep aside to marinate for an hour.
- Heat oil in a pan over moderate flame.
- Add bay leaf, cloves and cardamoms.
- Stir-fry for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onions and fry until golden brown.
- Add the ginger and garlic along with the marinated mutton pieces.
- Stir well for 10 minutes or until the mutton is cooked and tender.
- Add the tomatoes and green chillies.
- Keep stirring from time to time and add 1/3 cup of water.
- Cook till it starts to boil and add garam masala powder and salt.
- Cook for a minute longer.
- Garnish with coriander leaves, ginger pieces and green chillies.
- Serve hot.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, merely reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the other spices.
Can I use lamb instead of mutton?
Yes, lamb works great in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as lamb typically cooks faster than mutton.
How do I know when the meat is properly cooked?
The meat should be tender enough to easily break apart with a spoon. If you’re unsure, cook it for a few extra minutes.
