Lamb Vindaloo
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Main Course
Cuisine
Indian
Author:
Spice Zen
Servings
4
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
45 minutes
Marination Time
1 to 2 hours
Dietary Information
Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Soy-Free, Lactose-Free, Dairy-Free
A bold and tangy vindaloo inspired by traditional Goan flavours, where vinegar, spice and slow cooking come together to create depth and intensity. Lamb is marinated, then simmered gently until tender in a richly spiced sauce that is vibrant, warming and deeply satisfying. Robust rather than creamy, this curry is all about balance between heat, acidity and savoury richness.
Ingredients
Protein
-
450 g boneless lamb, goat, beef or pork, cut into 4 cm pieces
Marinade
-
2 tbsp rice wine vinegar or lemon juice
-
2 tsp Spice Zen Vindaloo Spice Blend
-
1 tsp salt
Vindaloo Sauce
-
2 tbsp ghee or Spice Zen Sunflower Oil
(or Spice Zen Mustard Oil for a traditional finish) -
2 medium onions, smoothly blended (about 300 g peeled, optional)
-
1 tsp ginger paste (optional)
-
1 tsp garlic paste (optional)
-
1 tbsp Spice Zen Vindaloo Spice Blend
-
½ cup tomato puree
-
½ cup water, plus extra if needed
-
Salt, to taste
To Garnish
-
Fresh coriander, finely chopped
Directions
In a large bowl, combine vinegar or lemon juice, 2 teaspoons Spice Zen Vindaloo Spice Blend and salt. Add the meat and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.
Heat ghee or oil in a heavy-based pan over medium heat. Add onion if using and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
Add ginger and garlic if using, followed by 1 tablespoon Spice Zen Vindaloo Spice Blend. Sauté briefly until aromatic.
Add tomato puree, salt and water. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens into a rich paste.
Add the marinated meat along with any remaining marinade. Stir well to coat.
Cover and simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender. Add small splashes of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Once cooked, uncover and simmer for a few minutes to thicken the sauce if required.
Remove from heat, garnish with coriander and allow the curry to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Chef’s Notes
Vindaloo should be tangy and boldly spiced rather than creamy.
Resting the curry before serving improves depth and balance.
Adjust heat by increasing or reducing the spice blend, not by adding chilli separately.
Recipe Note
Protein Options
This vindaloo works well with lamb, goat, beef or pork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the protein used.
Heat Level
Vindaloo is traditionally hot. Adjust the amount of spice blend to suit your preference.
Onion & Garlic Optional
For a cleaner, sharper vindaloo, onion and garlic can be omitted. Allow the vinegar and spices to carry the flavour.
These recipes are provided for general inspiration and home use. Results may vary depending on ingredients, equipment and technique. Please check ingredients for allergens and follow safe food handling practices.

