Mutton Champ Recipe

Mutton Champ, a popular delicacy in South Asian cuisine, is known for its rich flavors and succulent texture. Here’s a complete recipe for preparing Mutton Champ using both frying and grilling methods.

Ingredients:

For Marination:

• 1 kg mutton chops
• 1 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons raw papaya paste (optional, for tenderizing)
• 1 tablespoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Salt to taste

For Cooking:

• 4-5 tablespoons oil or ghee (for frying)
• 2-3 tablespoons oil or ghee (for basting during grilling)
• Lemon wedges, for garnish
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• Sliced onions, for serving
• Green chutney, for serving

Method:

1. Marinate the Mutton Chops:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and raw papaya paste.
   • Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, black pepper powder, and salt to the mixture.
   • Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
   • Add the mutton chops to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Frying Method:
   • Heat oil or ghee in a large, heavy-bottomed frying pan over medium heat.
   • Remove the marinated mutton chops from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
   • Add the mutton chops to the pan in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
   • Fry the chops, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
   • Remove the chops from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove any excess oil.
3. Grilling Method:
   • Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
   • Remove the marinated mutton chops from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature.
   • Place the chops on the grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
   • Grill the chops, turning occasionally and basting with oil or ghee, until they are evenly browned and cooked through. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
   • If using an oven, preheat to 200°C (400°F) and bake the chops on a baking tray for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through and basting with oil or ghee for even cooking and browning.
4. Serve the Mutton Chops:
   • Once the mutton chops are cooked, remove them from the pan or grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with sliced onions and green chutney on the side.

Tips:

• For added flavor, you can use a piece of hot charcoal. Place the hot charcoal in a small bowl, put it in the center of the cooked mutton chops, drizzle a few drops of oil over the charcoal, and cover the dish immediately. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili powder.
• Ensure the mutton chops are evenly cut for consistent cooking.

FAQs

1. How long should I marinate the mutton chops?

• For best results, marinate the mutton chops for at least 4-6 hours. Marinating overnight in the refrigerator will yield the most flavorful and tender chops.

2. Can I use lamb chops instead of mutton chops?

• Yes, you can substitute lamb chops for mutton chops. Just adjust the cooking time as lamb chops may cook faster due to their tenderness.

3. How do I prevent the mutton chops from becoming dry?

• Ensure the chops are well-marinated and not overcooked. Basting with oil or ghee during grilling or frying helps keep the chops moist.

4. What can I serve with Mutton Champ?

• Mutton Champ pairs well with naan, roti, or paratha. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.

5. Can I cook the mutton chops in the oven?

• Yes, you can bake the marinated mutton chops in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through and basting with oil or ghee for even cooking and browning.

Enjoy your delicious Mutton Champ prepared using both frying and grilling methods!