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Delicious Kerala Coconut Beef Curry with tender beef cooked in coconut milk

Coconut Beef Curry

A fragrant and flavorful dish embodying the essence of Kerala’s culinary heritage, rich in spices and creamy coconut milk.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Indian, Kerala
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 kg beef, cut into medium-sized cubes
  • 2 large onions, finely sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped for juiciness
  • 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste for robust flavor
  • 3 green chilies, slit for heat
  • 2 sprigs curry leaves for aroma
  • 1 cup thick coconut milk for creamy texture
  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds for crunch
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds for sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon coriander powder for depth
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder for color
  • 2 teaspoons Kashmiri chili powder for milder heat
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper powder for spice
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala for flavor
  • 1 stick cinnamon for warmth
  • 3 pods cardamom for exotic flavor
  • to taste Salt
  • 2 cups water to tenderize the beef

Instructions
 

Cooking Instructions

  • Begin by heating coconut oil in a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
  • Add mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. Next, introduce fennel seeds, the cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods, and curry leaves. Sauté until aromatic.
  • Add finely sliced onions and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies, cooking for about 2 minutes.
  • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down. Stir in coriander powder, turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, black pepper powder, and salt, cooking for another minute.
  • Toss the beef cubes into the pot, ensuring they are well-coated with the spice mixture.
  • Pour in the water, cover the pot, and cook on high pressure for 20-25 minutes. For a heavy pot, simmer it for 60-75 minutes until the beef is tender.
  • Once cooked, stir in the coconut milk and garam masala. Let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh curry leaves and serve hot.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the beef in yogurt and spices a few hours ahead. Adjust heat by varying green chilies or spices.
Keyword Coconut Beef Curry, Coconut Milk Dish, Kerala Cuisine, Spicy Beef Curry