There’s something deeply satisfying about a rich, flavorful curry that packs just the right amount of heat. This spicy beef curry recipe brings together tender beef simmered in aromatic spices, tangy tomatoes and creamy coconut milk all served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for both a comforting family meal and an impressive dish for guests.

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Beef Curry Recipe Ingredients

For the Curry:

• 1 kg beef chuck (cubed): Chuck is the perfect cut for this curry. It becomes tender and juicy after slow cooking.
• 2 onions (finely chopped): Adds sweetness and forms the base of the curry sauce.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced): Provides a robust, aromatic flavor.
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (grated): Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth to the curry.
• 3 tbsp curry powder: The main flavor driver. It’s a blend of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and more.
• 2 tbsp garam masala: Adds complexity with hints of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• 1 tsp turmeric: A mild spice that also gives the dish its signature golden color.
• 2 tsp chili powder: Adds heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and helps create the sauce.
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk: Balances the spices with a creamy sweetness.
• 2 green chilies (sliced): Optional, but perfect for those who love extra heat.
• 3 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, adding richness to the sauce.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and helps tenderize the beef.
• 1 cinnamon stick: Infuses the curry with subtle warmth.
• 2 bay leaves: Helps to round out the flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Fresh coriander (chopped, for garnish): Adds a fresh vibrant finish.

For Serving:

• Steamed basmati rice: The ideal accompaniment; basmati rice has a light, fluffy texture that soaks up the curry sauce beautifully.
• Naan bread or roti: Perfect for scooping up the curry and enjoying all the rich flavors.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime adds brightness and enhances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spicy Beef Curry

1. Prepare the Beef

The star of this dish is the beef and preparing it properly ensures tender, flavorful bites in every spoonful.

Sear the Beef:
Start by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a few tablespoons of oil, then sear the cubed beef until browned on all sides. This caramelization adds a deep, rich flavor that will infuse the entire dish. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this can cause the meat to steam instead of sear. Once browned, set the beef aside on a plate.

2. Build the Curry Base

Sauté the Onions:
In the same pot, lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become golden brown and caramelized. This step is crucial as it builds the sweet, rich base of the curry. The onions should be soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness.

Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir them into the onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. The combination of garlic and ginger is the backbone of many curries, providing warmth and complexity to the dish.

Spice it Up:
Now it’s time to add the dry spices; curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, and chili powder. Stir the spices into the onion mixture, letting them toast for 1-2 minutes. This step is essential to release their full flavors. You should start to smell the warm, fragrant aroma of the spices as they bloom.

Tip: If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the green chilies entirely.

3. Create the Sauce

Add Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats the onions and spices. This will thicken the sauce and add a deep, concentrated tomato flavor. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the tomatoes break down and blend with the spices.

Add Coconut Milk and Broth:
Pour in the can of coconut milk and beef broth and stir everything together to combine. The coconut milk will create a creamy, rich base for the curry, while the broth helps to tenderize the beef and carry the flavors through the dish.

4. Simmer and Cook the Beef

Return the Beef to the Pot:
Once the sauce is well combined, return the seared beef cubes to the pot along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Stir to ensure the beef is fully submerged in the sauce.

Add Cinnamon and Bay Leaves:
Drop in the cinnamon stick and bay leaves for extra aromatic depth. The cinnamon adds a subtle sweetness that balances the heat, while the bay leaves lend an earthy, herbal note.

Slow Cook:
Bring the curry to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours. The key to a tender, flavorful beef curry is low and slow cooking. This allows the meat to break down, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender while the sauce thickens and intensifies in flavor.

5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Final Taste Test:
After 1 to 1.5 hours of simmering, check the beef for tenderness. It should easily break apart with a fork. If the sauce has thickened too much, you can add a little water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency.

Taste the curry and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you like more heat, you can add a pinch of chili powder or even a few extra slices of fresh green chili.

Garnish and Serve:
Once your curry is perfectly seasoned, remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Stir in some freshly chopped coriander for a burst of freshness. Serve the spicy beef curry over steamed basmati rice, alongside warm naan or roti to soak up the flavorful sauce. A squeeze of lime over the top adds a final layer of brightness.

Why This Dish Works So Well

The beauty of this spicy beef curry lies in the harmonious balance of spices, tender beef and creamy coconut milk. Here’s why this dish is such a hit:

• Complex Flavors: The combination of curry powder, garam masala, and fresh ginger creates a multi-layered flavor profile, while the coconut milk mellows the heat, providing a perfect balance.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender, absorbing all the rich flavors of the curry sauce.
• Spicy Yet Balanced: The chili powder and green chilies add just the right amount of heat, but it’s tempered by the sweetness of the coconut milk and the warmth of the cinnamon.

Tips and Variations

• Add Vegetables: You can bulk up the curry by adding vegetables like potatoes, carrots or peas. They soak up the sauce beautifully and add extra texture to the dish.
• Use Different Meats: While beef is the star here, this recipe works well with lamb or even chicken thighs.
• Make It Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with tofu or chickpeas. You’ll still get all the amazing flavors from the spices and coconut milk.

This spicy beef curry is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for those who love bold flavorful meals. With its tender beef, aromatic spices and creamy coconut sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The slow cooking process ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and the heat can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences.