If you’re a fan of rich, aromatic, and slightly spicy comfort food, this Creamy Slow-Cooked Beef in Coconut Curry is bound to become your new favorite recipe. Imagine tender, juicy chunks of beef swimming in a velvety coconut curry sauce, infused with the delightful flavors of red curry paste, fresh ginger, and garlic. This dish is the perfect meal to cozy up with, especially during the cooler months. Plus, it comes together with minimal effort, thanks to the magic of a slow cooker.

What makes this dish truly irresistible is its versatility and the way it brings together a melody of flavors in such a harmonious manner. The umami depth from the beef, combined with the creamy sweetness of coconut milk and the zesty pop of lime juice, makes each bite a tantalizing experience. When served over fluffy basmati rice and accompanied by warm garlic naan, every mouthful is pure comfort wrapped in warmth. This recipe also suits various spice preferences, whether you like it mild or with a bit more heat.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Slow-Cooked Beef in Coconut Curry

Effortless Cooking: Thanks to the slow cooker, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time, letting you go about your day while it simmers away.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and spices creates a deep and complex flavor profile that’s beyond delicious.
Meal Prep Friendly: It’s perfect for batch cooking, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing your preferred red curry paste, ensuring everyone’s palate is happy.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have your kitchen tools and ingredients ready. You’ll need a robust skillet for browning the beef, which is crucial for developing flavor. A slow cooker will be your primary cooking tool, marrying all the flavors over time, making the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender. Ensure your work surface is clean and organized, with all ingredients chopped and measured, making the process seamless.

Additionally, using a garlic press will save time when mincing garlic, and a microplane is perfect for grating fresh ginger. A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware. Having your fresh cilantro washed and ready to chop will make garnishing more efficient when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients

2.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
2 cans (13.5 oz each) full-fat coconut milk
3 tbsp red curry paste (mild or hot)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp lime juice
2 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Fresh cilantro (garnish)
Cooked basmati rice & garlic naan (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, searing each piece of beef for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich, brown crust. This step not only enhances the flavor but also locks in the juices of the beef. Once done, transfer the beef chunks to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

Using the same skillet, add the thinly sliced onions and let them sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Introduce the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring for an additional minute. This allows the oils and flavors to release and meld together harmoniously.

Step 3: Build the Curry Base

With the aromatics cooked, stir in the red curry paste, ground coriander, and turmeric powder. Let these spices cook for about a minute to bloom their flavors. Pour in one can of coconut milk, scraping up any browned bits on the pan’s bottom – these add immense flavor. Transfer this fragrant mixture into the slow cooker with the beef.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Now, pour in the second can of coconut milk into the slow cooker. Stir in the brown sugar, lime juice, salt, and black pepper, mixing gently to combine all the elements. Ensure the beef is adequately submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for an 8-hour simmer or high for 4 to 5 hours, depending on your schedule. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become fork-tender, soaking up the coconut curry goodness.

Step 6: Adjust & Serve

Before serving, taste the curry and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lime juice as needed. Dish out over cooked basmati rice and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve it with warmed garlic naan on the side for the ultimate dining experience.

Variations

Protein: Swap the beef for chicken or tofu for a lighter alternative.
Vegetables: Dice in carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with adding a cinnamon stick or cardamom pods for a different aromatic touch.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the beef is well seared for a deeper flavor profile.
Don’t skip the step of sautéing the aromatics to release their full flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with basmati rice or jasmine rice for a completely satisfying meal.
Offer an accompanying green salad to balance the meal’s richness.

Tips

For a thicker curry, allow it to cool slightly before serving, giving the sauce time to thicken naturally.
If the curry is too spicy, balance it with extra coconut milk or a dollop of plain yogurt.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high
Total Time: Approximately 8.5 hours

Nutritional Information

Calories: 650 per serving
Protein: 40g per serving
Sodium: 450mg per serving

FAQs

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

Yes, you can substitute with light coconut milk, but it might result in a slightly less creamy texture.

Is it necessary to brown the beef first?

While not absolutely necessary, browning the beef beforehand develops deeper flavors and should not be skipped if possible.

How can I make this curry spicier?

Consider adding more red curry paste or a pinch of red chili flakes to increase the heat level.

Can this dish be frozen for later?

Yes, this curry freezes well. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring to airtight containers for freezing.

Conclusion

Incorporating the soothing warmth and fragrant aromas of this Creamy Slow-Cooked Beef in Coconut Curry into your meal rotation promises a culinary delight that’s hard to beat. Its simplicity, coupled with an intricate depth of flavor, makes this dish a must-try. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe offers everything you need for a memorable meal. We encourage you to share your experiences, tweak it to suit your taste preferences, and explore the endless possibilities it presents.