This wonderful dish comes from the Kashmir region and tells of the rich blend of foodways that influenced most of the South Asian area. To have a deeper appreciation for it and the proud culinary traditions, use this guide as your starting point before trying other similar food, like Anglo-Indian curries.

Kashmiri culinary beginnings date back to the 15th century when the Turco-Mongol people took over India by force, leading to the migration of many highly skilled people, like weavers, woodcarvers, cooks, and architects. Most of them fled to Uzbekistan, and they also have cooks there called Wazas who know their way around Kashmiri cuisine. 

Once the conflict was over, the natives of Kasmir came back, and a lot of people showed up there as well, which is why their culture is considered to be syncretic in nature. For instance, there were the Persian Achaemenid invasions, the welcoming of wise people from Turkey, and other Central Asian migrants (later known as Mughals). As a result, classics like Rogan Josh became popular, especially among Muslim households. 

What is interesting about the Muslim equivalent of Rogan Josh is its boiling process and the use of lean goal ribs called champh and a shallot variant called praan. It also has cockscomb flower petals that add vibrant colour to the dish. If you want to add more Hindi flavours to it, you can add yoghurt. There are a few that have eaten this dish with alkanet or ratan jot. 

Much like the Indian version, you add clarified butter or ghee. You can also include mustard oil instead. It is commonly eaten with rice, but you can opt for naan bread. Rogan Josh is also known for its use of mutton as you let the meat sear first then slow cook for an hour and a half, but goat meat is a welcome substitute. 

If you are not a fan of spicy food, Muslim households can hold off on using some of the chillies and peppers. Because of the different variations of this dish, many have tried to re-create this and the traditional Rogan Josh, especially the best Indian restaurants in London. 

As mentioned earlier, Rogan Josh is a type of curry, so there is quite a selection of curries that you are more than welcome to try at your local Indian restaurant. You can also celebrate Kasmiri culinary creations, such as the Kharai Gosht, which is a slow-cooked spicy lamb served with pilaf rice. But most importantly, be open to different versions of Indian food because this is part of a rich cultural heritage that deserves to be celebrated! 

Rogan Josh is a great staple to have in any Indian-style dine out or takeaway, and it can be your way to fall in love with spices and deep flavours. Over the years, there have been various influences and versions of the dish, meaning it is celebrated across different communities. Because of this, consider trying it from experienced cooks like the ones from our own kitchen! 

Tower Tandoori is the best Indian restaurant near London Bridge known for its authentic delicacies and vibrant celebration of many classics, like its Mutton Rogan Josh and Kharai Gosht. Our team has over 40 years of culinary experience, and we pride ourselves on being one of the oldest food businesses in the area that serves Anglo-Indian classics. So consider opting for takeaway or book a table through our website today!