Description
This Slow-Cooker Beef Curry is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender beef chuck simmered in a rich blend of spices, coconut milk, and tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting meal, this Indian-inspired recipe is easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy days. The slow cooker method ensures the beef becomes meltingly tender while absorbing the vibrant curry flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Marinade
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil for browning
Aromatics and Spices
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (13.5 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and enhances the texture. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the curry’s aromatic base.
- Add Spices: Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the spiced onion mixture to the slow cooker with the browned beef. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and coconut milk. Stir everything together to combine well.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. Cook until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the curry and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of plain yogurt or a splash of cream just before serving.
- Add cubed potatoes or carrots along with the beef for a heartier, vegetable-packed version.
- Leftovers develop deeper flavors and taste even better the next day.
