Bhuna Mutton Easy Pakistani Recipe

Bhuna Mutton is a rich, aromatic dish deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the Indian subcontinent, particularly Pakistan. The term bhuna refers to the cooking technique where meat is slow-cooked with spices until the oil separates, creating a deep, concentrated flavor.

This method originated in the Mughal kitchens and was later adapted across different regions, each adding its own touch.

In Pakistan, Bhuna Mutton has become a staple in both home kitchens and street food culture. The dish is known for its bold spices, slow-cooked tenderness, and the way it pairs beautifully with naan or rice. Unlike gravied mutton dishes, bhuna versions have a thick, masala-coated texture that makes it perfect for scooping up with bread.

Bhuna Mutton in Pakistani Street Food

While Bhuna Mutton is a beloved home-cooked meal, it has also made its mark in the vibrant street food scene of Pakistan. You’ll often find it sizzling in large woks (karahis) at dhabas (roadside eateries) in cities like:

Lahore: Known for its rich food culture, Lahore’s street vendors serve a spicy and deeply flavorful Bhuna Mutton, often cooked with a generous amount of butter.
Karachi: The fast-paced food scene here offers a slightly more masala-heavy version, often paired with fresh tandoori naan.
Peshawar: Peshawari Bhuna Mutton leans towards milder spices but is cooked with ghee, giving it a distinct aroma and richness.
Islamabad & Rawalpindi: Here, it’s common to find Bhuna Mutton served in more refined eateries but still holding onto its rustic street food charm.

Wherever you go, the dish remains a favorite among food lovers looking for something hearty, spicy, and irresistibly good.

Easy Pakistani Bhuna Mutton Recipe

Now, let’s bring the flavors of Pakistani street food into your kitchen with this easy-to-follow Bhuna Mutton recipe!

Ingredients:

1 kg mutton (bone-in for best flavor)
2 large onions (finely sliced)
3 tomatoes (chopped)
3-4 green chilies (slit)
1 cup yogurt
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
½ cup cooking oil or ghee
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish.

Instructions:

Heat Oil & Sauté AromaticsHeat oil or ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown.

Add Mutton & SpicesAdd ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute. Then, add mutton pieces and sear them until they turn brown.

Bhuna the MasalaAdd chopped tomatoes, green chilies, salt, turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well and let it cook until the tomatoes break down and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Slow Cook the MuttonAdd yogurt, mix well, and let the mutton cook on low heat for about 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a little water if needed.

Final TouchOnce the meat is tender and the gravy thickens, sprinkle garam masala and fresh coriander. Stir well and let it rest for a few minutes.

Serve & EnjoyServe hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice, and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Pakistani dish!

Conclusion

Bhuna Mutton is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Pakistani flavors, slow cooking traditions, and the magic of street food. Whether you’re enjoying it at a dhaba in Lahore or making it in your own kitchen, this dish promises a satisfying, flavor-packed experience every time.

Would you try this recipe at home? Let us know in the comments! Happy cooking! 🍛🔥

If you want to see how this recipe is done, just check our YouTube channel and this dish video is "Bhuna Mutton Easy Pakistani Recipe"