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Beef Madras served with Basmati Rice and a Naan

The Best Beef Madras

This Beef Madras recipe is a fiery, flavorful curry that’s perfect for spice lovers. Tender beef simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce made with tomatoes, coconut milk, and a blend of Indian spices. Serve it with rice or naan for a satisfying meal!
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: Curry, Madras
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450kcal

Equipment

Chopping Board
Chef's Knife
Heatproof Bowl
Medium Saucepan

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade:

  • 2 lbs 900g stewing beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ cup plain yogurt
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Curry:

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp fenugreek leaves kasoori methi
  • 1 can 14 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can 14 oz coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine beef with yogurt, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and salt. Mix well, cover, and marinate for 1 hour (or overnight).
  • Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large pot. Sear the beef in batches until browned. Set aside.
  • Cook Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  • Simmer the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes. Add beef and coconut milk. Bring to a simmer.
  • Slow Cook: Cover and simmer on low for 1.5-2 hours, until beef is tender.
  • Garnish and Serve: Stir in cilantro and serve with rice or naan.

Notes

  • Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to suit your taste.
  • Make Ahead: The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
  • Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Tips for a Healthier Version

  • Use light coconut milk to reduce the calorie and fat content.
  • Trim excess fat from the beef before cooking to lower saturated fat.
  • Serve with cauliflower rice instead of basmati rice for a lower-carb option.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 38g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 700mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g