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Aromatic beef and coconut curry served with rice.

What Is Beef and Coconut Curry? Understanding the Basics

Beef and coconut curry is a savory stew where chunks of beef are simmered in a rich sauce made from coconut milk, spices, and aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onions. The coconut milk provides a creamy texture and mild sweetness that balances the heat from chilies and the earthiness of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This dish varies by region: in Thailand, it’s often a red curry with lemongrass; in India, it might lean toward a Kerala-style with mustard seeds; and in Malaysia, rendang offers a dry, caramelized version.

What makes beef and coconut curry so popular in 2025? Its versatility—suitable for slow cookers, Instant Pots, or stovetops—and its alignment with dietary trends like low-carb and dairy-free eating. The beef absorbs the flavors during slow cooking, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Typically serving 4-6 people, a basic recipe takes about 2 hours, but shortcuts like pre-made curry paste can cut it to 45 minutes.

For beginners, start with lean cuts like chuck roast to avoid excess fat.Beef and Coconut Curry This curry pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or cauliflower rice for a keto twist. If you’re exploring more curry basics, check our internal Beginner’s Guide to Curry Spices. Externally, resources like NYT Cooking provide visual guides to perfecting the sauce.

In essence, beef and coconut curry bridges comfort food and exotic flavors, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings.

The Rich History of Beef and Coconut Curry: From Ancient Origins to Modern Twists

The history of beef and coconut curry is a tapestry woven from global influences, tracing back to ancient trade routes. Curry itself originated in India around 2500 BCE, where early Tamil communities used spice blends (known as “kari”) to flavor dishes. Coconut, native to Southeast Asia, entered the mix through maritime trade, with Indian merchants introducing spices to Thailand and Indonesia by the 1st century CE.

In Thailand, beef curries like massaman evolved in the 17th century, influenced by Persian traders who brought ingredients like cardamom and cinnamon. The Ayutthaya Kingdom’s royal courts refined these, creating creamy coconut-based versions. Meanwhile, in Indonesia and Malaysia, rendang—a dry beef coconut curry—emerged among the Minangkabau people, slow-cooked for preservation during long journeys.

Colonialism spread curry further. The British East India Company adapted Indian recipes, introducing “curry powder” in the 18th century, which influenced global variations. In Kerala, India, Christian communities developed beef curries despite Hindu taboos, blending local coconut with Portuguese-introduced chilies.

In Cambodia, saraman curry reflects Cham Muslim influences, using coconut for richness. Japanese curry, introduced via the British Navy in the 19th century, often includes beef and coconut for creaminess.

In 2025, fusion versions abound, like Caribbean-inspired with pineapple or African with peanuts. This evolution highlights curry’s adaptability. For deeper insights, visit the Institute of Culinary Education’s curry history page.

kitchensanctuary.com

Historical influences on beef curry.

Understanding this history adds appreciation to every bite, connecting modern kitchens to ancient traditions.

Top Health Benefits of Beef and Coconut Curry: Nutrition in Every Bite

Beef and coconut curry offers more than flavor—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Beef provides high-quality protein (about 27g per serving), essential for muscle repair and satiety. Coconut milk adds medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which boost energy and support weight management by increasing metabolism.

Spices like turmeric contain curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound that may reduce arthritis symptoms and improve heart health.Beef and Coconut Curry Ginger and garlic enhance immunity and digestion, while chilies provide capsaicin for pain relief and metabolism boost.

A typical serving (1 cup) has around 522 calories, with 60% healthy fats from coconut, aiding brain function. It’s keto-friendly, low in carbs (13%), and rich in vitamins like B12 from beef for energy and iron for anemia prevention.

Bone broth variations add collagen for joint health. Overall, this curry supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and provides sustained energy.Beef and Coconut Curry For more, see Healthline’s curry benefits.

Incorporate it into your diet for a tasty way to meet nutritional goals.

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Nutrient-rich ingredients in beef curry.

Essential Ingredients for Beef and Coconut Curry: A Complete List

Core ingredients ensure authenticity and flavor:

• Beef (1-2 lbs chuck or stew meat): Tender cuts for slow cooking.
• Coconut Milk (1-2 cans): Full-fat for creaminess.
• Curry Paste or Powder (2-4 tbsp): Red for heat, yellow for mild.
• Aromatics: Onions, garlic (4 cloves), ginger (1-inch piece).
• Spices: Turmeric, cumin, coriander (1 tsp each).
• Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots (optional for heartiness).
• Herbs: Cilantro, basil for garnish.
• Oil: Coconut or vegetable for sautéing.

Variations might include lemongrass or peanuts.Beef and Coconut Curry Shop for organic beef and fresh coconut milk. For alternatives, see our Dairy-Free Substitutes.

nishkitchen.com

Fresh ingredients laid out for curry.

This list sets the foundation for all 10 recipes.

Recipe 1: Classic Beef and Coconut Curry – Timeless Comfort

This stovetop classic serves 4 in 90 minutes.

Ingredients: 1.5 lbs beef, 1 can coconut milk, 2 tbsp curry paste, 1 onion, 3 garlic cloves, 1 tbsp ginger, spices, oil.

Steps:

1. Brown beef in oil.
2. Sauté aromatics.
3. Add paste, spices, coconut milk; simmer 1 hour.

Calories: ~522 per serving.

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Classic beef curry simmering.

Recipe 2: Slow Cooker Beef and Coconut Curry – Set It and Forget It

Ideal for busy days; 8 hours on low.

Add bell peppers for color.

shemins.com

Slow cooker curry ready to serve.

Recipe 3: Instant Pot Beef and Coconut Curry – Quick Pressure Cooker Version

Ready in 45 minutes; high pressure for tenderness.

Recipe 4: Thai Massaman Beef and Coconut Curry – Nutty and Aromatic

With peanuts and potatoes; royal Thai flavors.

gastrosenses.com

Thai massaman variation.

Recipe 5: Kerala-Style Beef and Coconut Curry – South Indian Spice

Mustard seeds and curry leaves for authenticity.

Recipe 6: Keto Beef and Coconut Curry – Low-Carb Delight

Skip potatoes; add veggies like zucchini.

Recipe 7: Shredded Beef and Coconut Curry – Tender Pull-Apart

Braise for shredding; great for tacos.

tamingtwins.com

Shredded beef curry bowl.

Recipe 8: Caribbean-Inspired Beef and Coconut Curry – Tropical Twist

With pineapple for sweetness.

Recipe 9: One-Pot Beef and Coconut Curry with Vegetables – Healthy and Easy

Packed with carrots and spinach.

Recipe 10: Rendang Beef and Coconut Curry – Indonesian Dry Style

Slow-cooked until sauce reduces.

khinskitchen.com

Indonesian rendang variation.

Each recipe includes detailed steps, prep time, and tips for customization.

Expert Tips for Making Perfect Beef and Coconut Curry Every Time

1. Brown the beef first for flavor.
2. Use full-fat coconut milk to avoid splitting.
3. Simmer low and slow for tenderness.
4. Balance spices—taste and adjust.
5. Marinate beef overnight for deeper flavor.

Avoid overcooking coconut milk. For more, see Simple Joy’s guide.

Creative Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Beef and Coconut Curry

Serve over jasmine rice, with naan, or roti. Pair with cucumber salad or mango chutney. Wines: Off-dry Riesling. For sides, try our Easy Naan Bread.

keviniscooking.com

Curry served with sides.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Beef and Coconut Curry

Refrigerate up to 4 days; freeze 3 months. Reheat gently to prevent separation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Beef and Coconut Curry

Don’t rush browning; avoid watery coconut milk; balance heat levels.

Detailed Nutritional Breakdown and Comparisons for All Recipes

Recipe	Calories (per serving)	Carbs (g)	Protein (g)	Fat (g)
Classic	522	17	35	31
Slow Cooker	416	55	32	6
… (expand for all, sourced from citations)

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef and Coconut Curry

Can I make it vegan? Yes, substitute tofu. Best cut of beef? Chuck roast. How spicy? Adjust paste.

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The Ultimate Guide to Creamy, Flavorful, and Healthy Curries in 2025

Discover Mouthwatering Thai-Inspired Dishes, Easy Slow-Cooker Versions, Instant Pot Hacks, and Gluten-Free Options for Busy Families

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Introduction: Why Beef and Coconut Curry is Your 2025 Must-Try Recipe

In 2025, beef and coconut curry reigns supreme as the ultimate comfort food fusion! This creamy, aromatic dish blends tender beef with rich coconut milk, exotic spices, and fresh herbs for a healthy, low-carb meal that’s packed with protein and anti-inflammatory benefits. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, hosting a dinner party,Beef and Coconut Curry or craving a quick weeknight dinner, these 10 irresistible recipes cover every style—from classic Thai red curry to spicy Indian rendang and modern twists like keto-friendly bowls.

Key Benefits in 2025:

• Nutrient-Dense: High in iron from beef, healthy fats from coconut, and vitamins from veggies.
• Versatile: Adaptable for Instant Pot, stovetop, oven, or air fryer.
• Family-Friendly: Kid-approved mild versions + heat-it-up spicy options.
• Sustainable: Use grass-fed beef and organic coconut for eco-conscious cooking.

Get ready to elevate your curry game with step-by-step instructions, shopping lists, nutritional breakdowns, and pro tips. Each recipe serves 4-6 and takes under 60 minutes (except slow-cooker). Let’s dive in!

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Recipe 1: Classic Thai Beef Coconut Red Curry

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 25 min | Calories: 420 per serving

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cubed
• 2 cans (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 3 tbsp red curry paste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup bamboo shoots
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• Fresh basil and lime wedges

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and curry paste in oil for 2 min.
2. Add beef; brown 5 min.
3. Pour in coconut milk; simmer 15 min.
4. Stir in veggies; cook 5 min. Garnish with basil.
5. Serve over jasmine rice.

Tip: For extra creaminess, shake coconut milk cans before opening!

Nutrition: 32g protein, 28g fat, 12g carbs.

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Recipe 2: Spicy Indian Beef Korma with Coconut

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 40 min | Calories: 480

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp garam masala
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup peas
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Handful almonds, toasted

Instructions:

1. Marinate beef in yogurt and spices 10 min.
2. Brown beef in ghee; add garlic.
3. Simmer with coconut milk 30 min.
4. Add peas; cook 5 min. Top with almonds.

Tip: Blend sauce for ultra-smooth texture.

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Recipe 3: Instant Pot Beef Coconut Green Curry

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 20 min | Calories: 390

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, sliced thin
• 1 can coconut milk
• 3 tbsp green curry paste
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 zucchini, spiralized
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated

Instructions:

1. Sauté paste and ginger on sauté mode.
2. Add beef and coconut milk; pressure cook 10 min.
3. Quick release; stir in veggies.

Tip: Zoodles keep it low-carb!

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Recipe 4: Slow-Cooker Creamy Beef Rendang

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 6-8 hrs | Calories: 450

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef brisket, cubed
• 2 cans coconut milk
• 4 tbsp rendang paste
• 1 lemongrass stalk
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• Shredded coconut for garnish

Instructions:

1. Mix all in slow cooker.
2. Cook low 6-8 hrs.
3. Shred beef; serve with cauliflower rice.

Tip: Make ahead—flavors deepen overnight!

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Recipe 5: Keto Beef Coconut Curry Bowl

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 20 min | Calories: 380 (Net Carbs: 5g)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can coconut cream
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets

Instructions:

1. Brown beef; add curry powder.
2. Stir in coconut cream; simmer 10 min.
3. Steam broccoli; assemble bowl.

Tip: Swap broccoli for any low-carb veg.

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Recipe 6: Mild Family-Friendly Yellow Curry

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 30 min | Calories: 410

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef tenderloin
• 1 can coconut milk
• 3 tbsp yellow curry paste (mild)
• 2 potatoes, cubed
• 1 carrot, sliced
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown beef; set aside.
2. Cook paste, add veggies and milk.
3. Return beef; simmer 20 min.

Tip: Kids love the sweet potato swap!

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Recipe 7: Air Fryer Beef Satay with Coconut Dipping Sauce

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 15 min | Calories: 350

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef strips
• Marinade: 1 cup coconut milk + 2 tbsp peanut butter + soy sauce
• Skewers

Instructions:

1. Marinate beef 15 min.
2. Air fry 400°F, 10 min.
3. Serve with extra sauce.

Tip: Grill alternative for smoky flavor.

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Recipe 8: Vegan-Adaptable Beef & Coconut Massaman Curry

Prep: 12 min | Cook: 35 min | Calories: 460

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef (or tofu)
• 1 can coconut milk
• 3 tbsp massaman paste
• 1 cup pineapple chunks
• Peanuts

Instructions:

1. Fry paste; add beef.
2. Simmer with milk 25 min.
3. Add pineapple last 5 min.

Tip: Pineapple adds tropical sweetness!

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Recipe 9: One-Pan Beef Coconut Stir-Fry Curry

Prep: 8 min | Cook: 15 min | Calories: 400

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef strips
• 1 can light coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• Mixed veggies (bell peppers, snap peas)

Instructions:

1. Stir-fry beef and veggies.
2. Add milk and powder; reduce 5 min.

Tip: Minimal cleanup—your 2025 lifesaver!

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Recipe 10: Luxe Beef Coconut Biryani Curry

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Calories: 520

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef, cubed
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1 tbsp biryani masala
• Saffron + fried onions

Instructions:

1. Layer spiced beef, rice, and milk in pot.
2. Cook covered 40 min.
3. Fluff and garnish.

Tip: Pressure cooker halves time!

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Shopping List for All 10 Recipes (Serves 40+)

• Beef: 15 lbs (mix cuts)
• Coconut: 20 cans milk/cream
• Pastes/Spices: Red/green/yellow curry, garam masala (buy bulk!)
• Veggies: 10 bell peppers, 5 onions, spinach, peas, etc.
• Staples: Rice, fish sauce, lime (20), herbs

Total Cost Estimate: $150 (under $4/serving)

Pro Tips for 2025 Curry Mastery

• Storage: Fridge 4 days; freeze 3 months.
• Substitutions: Chicken or lentils for variety.

The Ultimate Guide to Creamy, Flavorful, and Healthy Curries in 2025

In 2025, beef and coconut curry continues to captivate home cooks and food enthusiasts alike with its rich, creamy textures and bold flavors. Combining tender beef with the tropical sweetness of coconut milk, these curries offer a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and nutrition. Whether you’re seeking keto-friendly options, slow-cooked comforts, or vibrant Thai-inspired twists, this guide highlights 10 delicious recipes that emphasize health benefits like high protein, anti-inflammatory spices, and lower-carb alternatives. Drawing from global influences, these dishes are easy to prepare at home, often using simple ingredients for maximum flavor.

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A hearty bowl of slow-cooked beef coconut curry served with rice.

Recipe 1: Classic Coconut Beef Curry Stew

This comforting stew features tender beef and potatoes in a creamy coconut gravy, ideal for chilly evenings. It’s a flavorful, one-pot wonder that’s naturally gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
• Kosher salt to taste
• 2 tbsp oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 3 tbsp Japanese curry powder (e.g., S&B brand)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup water (plus more if needed)
• 4 Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
• For serving: Rice, cilantro, sliced red Fresno chiles, lime wedges

Instructions

1. Season beef with salt. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high; brown beef in batches, 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
2. Pour off excess oil, leaving 1 tbsp. Add butter, onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder for 3 minutes. Add bay leaves, coconut milk, and 1 cup water.
4. Return beef to pot; simmer partially covered until fork-tender, 30-35 minutes.
5. Add potatoes; simmer uncovered until tender, 25-35 minutes. Thin with water if needed; season with salt.
6. Serve over rice, topped with cilantro, chiles, and lime.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 6 servings)

Calories: 661 kcal | Carbs: 38g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 47g | Fiber: 8g

Tips

Sear the beef well for deeper flavor. Use Japanese curry powder for authenticity. It tastes better the next day.

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kitchensanctuary.com

Rich beef coconut curry garnished with fresh herbs and naan on the side.

Recipe 2: Spiced Coconut Beef Curry with Homemade Masala

A fragrant curry with a homemade spice paste, featuring layers of toasted spices for an authentic, bold taste. Optional potatoes make it heartier.

Ingredients

Masala Paste:

• 1 tbsp black peppercorns
• 1 tbsp coriander seeds
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp poppyseeds
• 5 green cardamom pods
• 12 cloves
• 2 star anise
• 3 dried red chiles
• 8-10 curry leaves
• ¼ cup grated unsweetened coconut

Curry:

• 4 tbsp neutral oil
• 1 tsp black mustard seeds
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp garlic paste
• 1 large red onion, chopped
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp Kashmiri chile powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 2 green bird’s-eye chiles, split
• 2 plum tomatoes, chopped
• 1.25 lbs beef chuck, cubed
• 1 potato (optional), cubed
• 1 can (13 oz) unsweetened coconut milk

Instructions

1. Toast masala spices in a hot pan until popping, 5 minutes. Add curry leaves and coconut; toast 15 seconds. Blend with ¼-½ cup water into a paste.
2. Heat oil in a pot; sputter mustard seeds. Add ginger, garlic, onion, and salt; cook until golden, 15 minutes.
3. Stir in ground spices and green chiles; cook 5 minutes. Add tomatoes; cook until jammy, 10-15 minutes.
4. Add masala paste, beef, and 1 cup water; simmer 40-50 minutes.
5. Add half coconut milk; simmer 20 minutes. Add potato if using; cook 20 minutes more.
6. Stir in remaining coconut milk; heat through. Serve with paratha or rice.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 4 servings)

Calories: 693 | Carbs: 37g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 47g | Fiber: 9g

Tips

Use white poppyseeds for thickening. Substitute chicken for beef, adjusting cook time.

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Recipe 3: Kerala-Style Beef Coconut Curry

Lightly browned beef in a simple coconut sauce, topped with coriander. A quick, impressive dish with South Indian flair.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp oil
• 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1 inch ginger, chopped
• 3 tbsp curry powder
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste
• Coriander leaves and lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil; fry beef until browned, 4-5 minutes. Set aside.
2. Add remaining oil, bay leaves, and cinnamon; sauté 1 minute.
3. Add onions and curry leaves; sauté until browned, 2-3 minutes.
4. Add ginger, garlic, and curry powder; sauté 1-2 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and water; season with salt. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
6. Add beef; cover and cook until tender, about 1 hour. Garnish and serve with rice.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 540 | Carbs: 56g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 28g | Fiber: 8g

Tips

Add cubed potatoes for variety. Slow cooker option available.

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supergoldenbakes.com

Beef coconut curry stew with potatoes and fresh garnishes.

Recipe 4: Keto Coconut Curry Beef

A low-carb, gluten-free curry with sweet peppers and creamy sauce, perfect for healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 2 sweet bell peppers, diced
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1.5 lbs beef, cubed
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp pepper
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tbsp sugar (or monk fruit for keto)

Instructions

1. Heat oil; add curry powder and cook 1 minute.
2. Add peppers, onion, garlic, and tomato paste; cook 3-4 minutes.
3. Season beef with salt and pepper; add and brown.
4. Pour in coconut milk and sugar; cover and cook 30-35 minutes.
5. Serve over cauliflower rice.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 658 | Carbs: 15g (7g net) | Protein: 38g | Fat: 52g | Fiber: 3g

Tips

Use tender cuts like sirloin. Add ginger for extra zing.

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Recipe 5: Slow Cooker Mild Beef Coconut Curry

Fall-apart beef with bell peppers in a mild, creamy sauce. Great for meal prep and family meals.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 3.3 lbs braising beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 red bell peppers, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp minced ginger
• 2 heaped tbsp curry paste (tikka masala)
• 1 beef stock cube
• 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes