Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or meal prep for the week, this recipe combines tender beef with a rich coconut gravy infused with spices. The unique blend of flavors creates a comforting dish that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this curry comes together effortlessly.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a deeply satisfying taste experience.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside naan for an adaptable meal perfect for any occasion.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and lean beef, this curry is a wholesome choice.

Tools and Preparation
Preparing Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy requires some essential tools to ensure success. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring the beef becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife is crucial for safely chopping vegetables and meat efficiently.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for balancing spices in your curry.
Ingredients
For the Beef Curry
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. This prep work ensures everything is ready when you start cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a pan over medium heat:
1. Add coconut oil or vegetable oil.
2. Once hot, add diced onion. Cook until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the sautéed aromatics to the slow cooker:
– Add beef chunks to the pot.
– Sprinkle curry powder, ground cumin, turmeric, ground cinnamon, and chili flakes if using.
– Pour in coconut milk, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low heat:
– Cook for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender.
– Stir occasionally if possible to mix flavors well.
Step 5: Serve Your Curry
Once cooked:
– Taste for seasoning adjustments with salt or lime juice.
– Serve over fluffy rice or with warm naan bread. Enjoy!
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
Serving your Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish to impress your family and friends.
Over Fluffy Rice
- Serve the curry over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the rich flavors of the gravy, creating a satisfying meal.
With Naan Bread
- Pair your curry with warm naan bread. This Indian flatbread is perfect for scooping up the tender beef and creamy sauce.
On a Salad
- For a lighter option, serve the beef curry over a fresh salad. Use greens like spinach or arugula to balance the richness of the curry.
As a Wrap
- Use tortillas or flatbreads to create a wrap with the beef curry. Add some fresh vegetables for crunch and flavor.
How to Perfect Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
Making an unforgettable Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.
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Choose quality beef: Select well-marbled beef chuck for tenderness and flavor during cooking.
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Sear the meat: Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances its flavor and creates a richer gravy.
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Add aromatics first: Start with onions, garlic, and ginger to build a flavorful base before adding spices.
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Control the spice level: Adjust chili flakes according to your preference for heat; you can always add more later.
Best Side Dishes for Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
Enjoying Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
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Cucumber Raita
A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the spices in your curry. -
Steamed Vegetables
Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans offer a fresh contrast to the rich gravy. -
Pappadam
These crispy lentil wafers add a crunchy texture that pairs well with curry. -
Quinoa Pilaf
A nutritious alternative to rice, quinoa pilaf can be flavored with herbs and spices. -
Chickpea Salad
A refreshing salad that adds protein and fiber, brightening up your meal. -
Roasted Potatoes
Seasoned roasted potatoes make a hearty accompaniment, soaking up any leftover sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to avoid them.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef before slow cooking can lead to a less rich flavor. Always sear the beef cubes in oil until golden brown for a deeper taste.
- Overlooking Spice Measurements: Using too much or too little of spices can throw off the balance. Stick to the recipe measurements for best results.
- Ignoring Coconut Milk Quality: Using low-fat coconut milk may not give you the creamy texture needed. Opt for full-fat coconut milk to achieve that luxurious gravy.
- Cooking on High Heat: Cooking on high can result in tough meat. Always use low heat for slow cooking to ensure tender beef that falls apart easily.
- Not Allowing Time for Flavors to Develop: Rushing the cooking time may lead to bland curry. Allow enough time for the spices to meld and flavors to develop, ideally 6-8 hours on low.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Let it cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
- Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Microwave in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally for even heating, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring often until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy.
Can I use other types of meat?
You can substitute beef with chicken or lamb. Adjust cooking times as needed, especially with chicken which cooks faster.
How spicy is this Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy?
The spice level can be adjusted by varying the chili flakes. Omit them entirely for a milder curry or add more for extra heat.
What do I serve with Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, naan, or even quinoa. Fresh herbs like cilantro also enhance its flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is already dairy-free due to the use of coconut milk, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy is not just a comforting dish; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers or adjusting spices according to your taste. Whether you enjoy it over rice or with flatbreads, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try today!
Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Spiced Coconut Gravy, a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This recipe features tender beef simmered to perfection in a luscious coconut gravy infused with aromatic spices. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this easy-to-make curry allows you to enjoy rich, complex flavors with minimal effort. Serve it over fluffy rice, alongside warm naan, or even as a wrap for a versatile meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck (cut into cubes)
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
- Sauté aromatics in coconut oil over medium heat until soft; add garlic and ginger.
- Transfer sautéed ingredients to a slow cooker and add beef, spices, coconut milk, crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Set slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours until beef is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving over rice or with naan.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg