Lamb with Yogurt Coconut Milk and Almond Masala
Grrrrrgh!
Course : Curry
From: HungryMonster.com
Serves: 6
 

Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      teaspoon      saffron threads
   2      teaspoons     caraway seeds
     1/4  cup           ghee -- (or melted butter)
     1/2  teaspoon      cardamom seeds
   2      cups          chopped onions
   2      teaspoons     chopped fresh ginger
   2      cups          coconut milk
     1/2  cup           cold water
   2      cups          unflavored yogurt
   2      teaspoons     salt
   4      1" stick      cinnamon
   6                    whole         cloves
   3      cloves        garlic chopped
     1/2  teaspoon      red chile pepper, powdered
     3/4  cup           boiling water
   2      pounds        cubed lamb
     1/2  cup           unsalted almonds
 

Preparation:

Drop the saffron threads into a small bowl or cup, add 1/3 of the boiling water and soak for at least 10 minutes. Pour the saffron and its soaking liquid into a deep bowl and stir in the yogurt, caraway seeds and salt. Add the lamb and turn it about with a spoon until all the pieces are evenly coated. Marinate the lamb at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, combine the almonds and the rest of the boiling water in a bowl, and soak for 10 minutes. Pour the almonds and their soaking water into a blender and blend until you have a smooth paste. Set aside. In a heavy casserole, heat the ghee over moderate heat until fairly hot. Add the cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, stir for a minute or so, then add the onions, garlic and ginger. Lifting and turning them constantly, fry for 7 to 8 minutes until the onions are soft and golden brown. With a slotted spoon, remove the lamb from the marinade, add the meat to the casserole, and stir over moderate heat until it browns evenly. Stir in the marinade and the cold water, then add the almond puree and red pepper and cook for 10 minutes stirring occasionally. Pour in the coconut mild, bring to a boil, and simmer partially covered for 20 minutes, or until the lamb is tender. To serve, discard the cinnamon and cloves, mound the lamb attractively on a deep heated platter, and pour the sauce over it.