Name: Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 tbsp curry powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola oil); Salt to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 76 reviews

If you’re craving a deeply comforting meal with rich flavors and silky textures, this Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe is going to become a new favorite in your kitchen. The tender beef stewed in creamy coconut milk and fragrant spices creates a dish that’s both indulgent and wonderfully satisfying. It’s an Asian-inspired delight that wraps warmth and richness in every bite, perfect for cozy dinners or sharing with loved ones. Once you try this Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved comfort curry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden board with a raw piece of rolled red meat with visible fat on the left side, next to three whole yellow potatoes arranged in a cluster on the right. Behind the meat and potatoes, there are several containers arranged in a row: a white tub labeled

This recipe keeps things deliciously straightforward, using a handful of essential ingredients that each bring their own magic. From the tender beef to the creamy coconut milk and aromatic spices, every item works together to build layers of irresistible flavor, inviting you to savor every spoonful.

Beef stew meat: Choose well-marbled chunks for tenderness and flavor after slow simmering.
Onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the curry base when softened.
Garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that complements the warm spices beautifully.
Ginger, grated: Gives a fresh, zesty brightness that balances the richness of the coconut milk.
Curry powder: The heart of the spice blend, delivering complex warmth and aroma.
Ground cumin: Adds an earthy, nutty undertone to the curry’s flavor profile.
Ground coriander: Offers a light, citrusy note that lifts the dish.
Coconut milk: Infuses the curry with creamy texture and tropical sweetness.
Beef broth: Enhances the meaty flavor and creates a luscious sauce.
Tomato paste: Balances the curry with a subtle tang and rich color.
Oil: Needed to brown the beef and sauté aromatics for optimal flavor.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

How to Make Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating oil in a sturdy pot over medium-high heat. Add your beef stew meat in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot, and brown it on all sides. This caramelization is crucial—it locks in juices and builds that deep savory foundation for your curry.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Once the beef is browned, remove it and set aside. In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and cook it until soft and translucent. This gentle sweat brings out the onion’s natural sweetness, which perfectly complements the spices to come.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices

Now stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger along with the curry powder, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Let these fragrant spices toast briefly with the aromatics to deepen their flavor—this step fills your kitchen with an inviting scent that promises deliciousness.

Step 4: Combine Liquids and Beef

Return the beef to the pot, then pour in the creamy coconut milk, beef broth, and rich tomato paste. Give everything a good stir to mix the layers of flavor together. This combination of liquids will create the luscious sauce that tenderizes the beef while absorbing every hint of spice.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot gently. Let your curry simmer for about one and a half to two hours, stirring occasionally and checking the tenderness of the beef. This slow cooking is where the magic happens: the meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the sauce thickens to creamy perfection.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, taste your beef curry and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve piping hot with fluffy rice to soak up the fragrant sauce. This is the moment to savor the rich, comforting flavors created by your effort.

How to Serve Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe

Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To lift your dish even further, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions. A few toasted coconut flakes or a wedge of lime on the side can add brightness and textural contrast that makes every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This beef curry pairs wonderfully with simple steamed jasmine or basmati rice, which lets the sauce shine. You could also serve it alongside warm naan bread or a crisp cucumber salad to refresh your palate between spoonfuls of rich curry.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the curry in hollowed-out bread bowls or over a bed of fragrant coconut rice for extra flavor layers. If you’re entertaining, a family-style platter with colorful vegetable sides invites everyone to dig in and enjoy together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight meals.

Freezing

If you want to keep your curry for longer, freezing works beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this curry?

Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking, chuck roast or brisket cut into chunks also works well for this Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe.

Is it possible to make this curry spicy?

Yes! Adding a chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you sauté the spices gives the curry a nice heat without overpowering the creamy coconut base.

Can I substitute the coconut milk?

Coconut milk is key to getting that creamy, slightly sweet flavor. However, if you need an alternative, full-fat coconut cream or a dairy-free creamer can work, but the taste will be a bit different.

How do I thicken the curry sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer the curry uncovered for a little longer to reduce it. Alternatively, stirring in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water will help thicken the sauce quickly.

Does this recipe freeze well?

Yes, it freezes beautifully! Just portion and store it properly, and your Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe will be ready to comfort you on a future busy day.

Final Thoughts

This Beef Curry with Coconut Milk Recipe is one of those dishes that fills your home with incredible aromas and your soul with warmth and comfort. The richness of the coconut milk combined with the tender beef and spices makes for a truly satisfying meal to enjoy any night of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the cozy magic this curry brings to the table!