Spicy Beef Curry
Ingredients
For the Beef:
1 lb beef stew meat (chuck or brisket), cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Curry Sauce:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1-2 red chilies, chopped (adjust for spice level)
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
1 cup beef broth or water
1 cup coconut milk (for a creamy version)
1 medium potato, diced (optional, for texture)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cinnamon stick (optional, for warmth)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the beef with salt, black pepper, turmeric, and lemon juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes, until golden brown. Stir in garlic, ginger, and chilies, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Toast the Spices: Add curry powder, garam masala, cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Build the Curry: Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes until they soften. Add the beef broth or water, coconut milk, and return the beef to the pot.
Simmer Until Tender: If using, add the diced potatoes and cinnamon stick. Cover and simmer on low heat for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
Final Touches: Taste and adjust the salt, removing the cinnamon stick before serving.
Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with basmati rice or warm naan.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 4