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Beef Curry with Coconut Milk and Spices

Elina James
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Dinner
Cuisine South Asian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Curry:
  • 2 lbs (900 g) beef stew meat (chuck or brisket, cut into 1½-inch cubes)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1–2 green chilies, slit (optional, for heat)
  • 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup crushed tomatoes)
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) coconut milk (full-fat recommended)
  • ½ cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Spice Mix:
  • 1½ tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp clove powder (or 2 whole cloves)
  • ½ tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions
 

  • Sear the Beef: Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add more oil if needed. Add onions and cook until golden brown (about 6–8 minutes). Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until fragrant.
  • Add Spices: Lower the heat slightly. Add cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, cloves, chili powder, and bay leaf. Stir for 30 seconds to release aromas.
  • Add Tomatoes: Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and release oil (5–7 minutes).
  • Return Beef to Pot: Add the seared beef back in, coating it well in the spice mixture.
  • Pour in Liquids: Add coconut milk and beef broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Simmer Slowly: Cover and cook on low heat for 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and sauce thickens. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 25–30 minutes on high pressure.
  • Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in lemon or lime juice before serving to balance the richness.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.