Imagine a steaming pot of rich, aromatic beef stew that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India with every single bite. This Indian Spice Beef Stew is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that combines tender, succulent beef with a symphony of exotic spices that will make your kitchen smell like a traditional Indian restaurant. Whether you're a spice lover or someone looking to elevate your home cooking game, this recipe promises to be your new comfort food obsession that will impress family and friends alike.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps create a better sear and develops deeper flavor.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and brown the beef in batches, ensuring each piece develops a rich golden-brown crust. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add chopped onions. Sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and curry powder. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to release their aromatic oils and prevent burning.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in beef broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which will add depth to the stew's flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let the stew cook slowly for approximately 1 hour, allowing the meat to become tender.
- Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the stew. Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes or until vegetables are soft and meat is fork-tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. If the stew seems too thick, add a little more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Let the stew rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right cut of meat: Use well-marbled beef stew meat like chuck roast for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Pat the meat dry before browning to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust that locks in flavor.
- Take your time with browning - don't rush the process. Each batch should develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
- Toast your curry powder briefly to enhance its aromatic qualities and deepen the overall taste profile.
- Low and slow is the secret to tender meat - maintain a gentle simmer throughout cooking.
- Let the stew rest after cooking to allow flavors to meld and develop a more complex taste.
- For an extra layer of authenticity, consider adding a dollop of yogurt or fresh cilantro when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 110mg
