Lamb Korma

Start by dry frying the cumin seeds, if you are beginning with whole ones. When nicely toasted, crush them in a pestle and mortar.

Make the saffron infusion by placing the saffron filaments in a mug or glass and pour over newly drawn water that has just been boiled and leave to infuse for 30 minutes then strain out the saffron.

Heat 2 tablespoons ghee in a frying pan and add the onions and fry gently until translucent. Add the chilli powder, cumin powder and salt and fry together for 1 minute, then add the yoghurt, stir well and cook for about 10 minutes at a gentle simmer with the lid on.

While you are frying the onions, start frying the lamb pieces in 2 tablespoons ghee in a separate frying pan. Cook these quickly to brown and seal the edges. When ready, which should be as the korma sauce is finishing its 10 minutes initial cook, add the lamb to the sauce, cover and cook at a medium heat for 1 1/2 hours. Lift these pieces of lamb out of the ghee with a fork or slotted spoon, i.e. leave the fat behind.

When the meat is tender, which should be after about 1 1/2 hours, simmer with the lid off to let the liquid dry up almost completely.

Now add the remaining ingredients - saffron, rose water, coriander leaves and garam masala - and stir until warmed through.

Serve straightaway, or even better leave a day and eat the next day when the flavours are much more subtle and have infused completely through.