This beef curry recipe is warm, comforting, and full of flavor. The tender beef, rich curry sauce, and simple ingredients make it perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s easy to cook and comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Serve it with rice or naan for a meal everyone will love.
Why We Love This
There’s a reason this beef curry recipe is a go-to in so many kitchens—it’s the kind of dish that feels like comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re new to making curry or a seasoned home cook, this one ticks all the boxes: rich flavor, simple prep, and tender beef in every bite.
Here’s why it stands out:
- Deep, layered flavor – Thanks to garlic, ginger, and a blend of warm curry spices, every spoonful is packed with savory goodness.
- One-pot simplicity – Minimal cleanup, maximum taste. This recipe simmers everything together to build flavor while saving time.
- Versatile and adaptable – Whether you like it mild or spicy, with coconut milk or tomato-based, this dish easily fits your taste.
- Perfect for leftovers – The flavors deepen even more the next day, making it a great meal prep option.
- Family favorite – It’s hearty, satisfying, and loved by kids and adults alike.
If you’ve been searching for a flavorful beef curry that’s both easy and comforting, this recipe delivers with every bite.
Ingredients
Beef chuck – Ideal for tenderizing in the curry. Avoid lean cuts as they may become tough.
Oil – For browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics.
Curry powder – Essential for flavoring the curry.
Ground cumin – Adds a smoky flavor.
Turmeric – Gives the curry its golden color and earthy taste.
Chili flakes – Optional, for a spicy kick.
Coconut milk – Creates a creamy base for the curry.
Diced tomatoes – Adds tanginess and depth.
Fresh cilantro – For garnish and freshness.
Instructions
Now that we have everything ready, let’s bring this beef curry recipe to life. It’s simple to make, and with each step, the kitchen will fill with the most comforting aromas. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty curry in no time.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat oil in a pot. Brown beef on all sides for 5–7 minutes. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Cook onion for 3–4 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Add tomatoes and coconut milk. Mix well.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
Add beef back to the pot. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Add salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste. Garnish with cilantro.
Pro Tips
To ensure your beef curry turns out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips and tricks that will elevate the dish and make the process smoother:
Choose the Right Beef Cut
Opt for beef chuck or stew meat for the best results. These cuts become incredibly tender when cooked low and slow, making them perfect for curry. Avoid lean cuts, as they can become tough when simmered for extended periods.
Don’t Rush the Browning
Browning the beef in batches may seem time-consuming, but it’s worth it. This step adds deep, savory flavors to the curry by caramelizing the meat and locking in moisture. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can cause the beef to steam instead of brown.
Use Fresh Spices
For the best flavor, use fresh spices whenever possible. Ground spices like curry powder, cumin, and turmeric lose potency over time, so fresh ones can make a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Simmer for Flavor
Low and slow is the secret to tender beef and a rich, flavorful sauce. Resist the urge to rush the cooking time. Let the curry simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can fully develop.
Adjust to Your Spice Level
If you love a little extra heat, add chili flakes or even fresh chili peppers to the curry. Start with a small amount, then taste and adjust to your liking. Remember, the heat intensifies as it simmers, so go easy at first!
Make It Ahead
Beef curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. If you’re meal prepping, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can even freeze it for later!
Garnish for Freshness
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds a refreshing, vibrant touch to the rich curry. You can also serve it with a side of yogurt or a drizzle of cream to balance out the heat.
Variations
One of the best things about this beef curry recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or to use up what you have in the pantry. Here are a few variations to help you get creative in the kitchen:
Add More Vegetables
Want to pack in more nutrients? You can add carrots, potatoes, spinach, or peas to the curry. Simply add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking, so they have time to soften without losing their texture. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes work wonderfully in curries as well.
Make It Spicy
For those who like a bit of heat, try adding some chopped green chilies or increase the amount of chili flakes. You can also experiment with fresh ginger and a dash of cayenne pepper to really amp up the spice level.
Coconut Milk Alternatives
While coconut milk creates a rich and creamy texture, you can switch it up if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Try using cream or yogurt for a thicker and tangier sauce. For a lighter version, opt for low-fat coconut milk or almond milk.
Switch Up the Protein
This beef curry works with other proteins too! Swap the beef for chicken thighs, lamb, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just be mindful of cooking times—chicken and tofu will cook much faster than beef.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your beef curry, the right accompaniments can make all the difference, turning this dish into a comforting and satisfying meal. Here are a few ideas that pair perfectly with your hearty curry:
Basmati Rice
A classic pairing, basmati rice is light, fragrant, and perfect for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce of the curry. You can cook it simply with a pinch of salt, or for extra flavor, add a couple of cardamom pods or a cinnamon stick to the cooking water.
Naan Bread
Soft and fluffy naan bread is another favorite companion for beef curry. Its slightly chewy texture is perfect for scooping up the curry, making each bite even more enjoyable. You can find naan in most stores, or you can try your hand at making it at home for an extra special touch.
Raita
To cool down the spices, serve the curry with a side of raita, a yogurt-based condiment. Simply combine plain yogurt with chopped cucumber, mint, and a pinch of cumin. The creamy, tangy flavor of the raita balances out the richness of the curry and adds a refreshing element.
FAQs
How do I make beef curry thicker?
If your beef curry is too thin, there are a few simple ways to thicken it:
Simmer longer: Allow the curry to cook uncovered for an extra 15-20 minutes. This will help reduce the liquid and thicken the sauce naturally.
Add a thickening agent: Stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour mixed with water, or use ground almonds for a more natural option.
Blend some of the curry: If you like, you can blend a portion of the curry and return it to the pot. This will create a thicker consistency without losing any flavor.
What is the best cut of beef for curry?
For the best results, choose cuts of beef that are ideal for slow cooking. Beef chuck or stew meat work wonderfully because they become tender and flavorful after being simmered for a long time. Brisket or round cuts are also good choices. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin as they can turn tough when cooked slowly.
Can I make beef curry in a slow cooker?
Yes! Making beef curry in a slow cooker is an easy way to achieve tender beef and rich flavors without much hands-on time. Simply brown the beef in a pan first, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the curry sauce and spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s a convenient option for busy days and results in a delicious, hands-off meal.
Can I make this beef curry ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, beef curry often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I make this curry without coconut milk?
Yes, you can! While coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture, you can substitute it with heavy cream, yogurt, or even tomato puree for a different flavor. For a lighter version, try using low-fat coconut milk or almond milk.
beef curry recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes optional
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 13.5 oz coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef chuck cubes and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Brown the beef on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. This step is key for building deep flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and golden.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, and turmeric. Let the spices bloom for 1–2 minutes. This enhances their flavor and fragrance.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Stir in the tomato paste, and cook for 1 minute. This deepens the tomato flavor, making the sauce richer.
- Add the diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those bits are packed with flavor!
Step 4: Simmer and Cook
- Return the browned beef to the pot and stir everything together.
- Bring the curry to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef will become tender, and the sauce will thicken.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the curry and add salt and pepper as needed. If you want a little more heat, you can add extra chili flakes at this point.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.