Description
This Slow Cooker Beef Curry recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Tender beef, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk come together to create a satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Beef Curry:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1-2 cups carrots, peeled and sliced (optional)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Cooked rice (basmati, jasmine, or your choice)
- Naan or crusty bread (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the Spices: Add the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using), and cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Transfer to the Slow Cooker: Transfer the onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker with the browned beef. Add the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, beef broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Curry: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Vegetables: About 30 minutes before serving, add the sliced carrots and peas to the slow cooker, if using. Stir them into the curry and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Serve the beef curry over cooked rice, with naan or crusty bread on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For a milder curry, reduce the cayenne pepper and omit the chili flakes.
- If you prefer a thicker curry, you can thicken the sauce with a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) stirred in 30 minutes before serving.
- For extra richness, you can add a tablespoon of ghee or butter towards the end of cooking.