Spicy Beef Curry
Description
Spicy Beef Curry is a rich, aromatic dish made with tender beef chunks simmered in a fiery blend of tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and bold spices. This hearty curry is perfect for spice-lovers and pairs beautifully with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a warming and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Spicy Beef Curry
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Beef (boneless stew meat or chuck), cubed – 1 kg
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Onions, finely chopped – 2 large
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Tomatoes, blended or finely chopped – 3 medium
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Garlic paste – 1 tbsp
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Ginger paste – 1 tbsp
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Green chilies, slit – 2–3
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Yogurt (whisked) – ½ cup
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Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish
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Cooking oil or ghee – ⅓ cup
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Salt – to taste
Spices
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Red chili powder – 2 tsp
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Turmeric – 1 tsp
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Coriander powder – 2 tsp
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Cumin powder – 1 tsp
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Garam masala – 1 tsp
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Black pepper – ½ tsp
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Whole spices (optional): bay leaves, cinnamon stick, cloves, green cardamom – 1 each
Instructions
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Marinate: Coat beef with yogurt, half of the ginger-garlic paste, and half of the powdered spices. Set aside for 30–60 minutes.
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Cook Base: Heat oil/ghee in a heavy pot. Add whole spices (if using). Add onions; sauté until golden brown.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in remaining ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
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Tomatoes & Spices: Add tomatoes and remaining powdered spices. Cook until the oil separates and masala thickens.
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Add Beef: Add marinated beef; cook on high heat 5–6 minutes to brown and coat with masala.
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Simmer: Add 1–2 cups water. Cover and simmer on low for 60–90 minutes, until beef is tender (alternatively pressure cook for 25–30 minutes).
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Finish: Stir in garam masala. Adjust salt and consistency. Garnish with fresh coriander.
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Serve Hot with rice, naan, or paratha.
Notes
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Browning the onions well is key for color and depth of flavor.
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Yogurt helps soften the beef and balance the spice.
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Letting the curry rest for 15–20 minutes deepens its flavor.
Tips
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Use bone-in meat for richer flavor.
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Add potatoes or carrots for variation.
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For extra heat, include chili flakes or whole dried chilies.
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Slow cooking gives the best texture — avoid rushing.
Servings
Makes 5–6 servings.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Nutrient | Amount |
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Calories | 430 kcal |
Protein | 32 g |
Fat | 28 g |
Carbohydrates | 9 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sodium | 620 mg |
Benefits
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Rich in protein – Supports muscle repair and strength.
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Warming spices – May boost metabolism and digestion.
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Iron & B-vitamins from beef support energy levels.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this curry ahead?
A: Yes! Curry tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
Q: How do I make it less spicy?
A: Reduce red chili powder and use mild Kashmiri chili for color instead of heat.
Q: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely. After sautéing onions and masala, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q: What’s the best cut of beef?
A: Chuck, brisket, or any stewing beef works best for slow-cooked curries.