This Slow Cooker Beef Coconut Curry is a cozy bowl of goodness! Tender beef melds perfectly with creamy coconut milk and spices for a truly comforting dish.
It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! I love tossing everything in the slow cooker and letting it work its magic while I relax. Serve it over rice for a tasty dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Chuck or stew meat gives great flavor and tenderness. If you need a leaner option, try using sirloin but cook it for less time as it cooks faster.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use light coconut milk, but it will be less rich.
Spices: The blend of spices is key! If you don’t have all the spices, you can use curry paste as a substitute. It contains many of these flavors already. Just adjust the quantity to taste.
Fresh Cilantro: A must for freshness! If you don’t like cilantro, try using parsley or green onions for a different kick.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Meat Before Slow Cooking?
Browning the meat is an essential step as it builds flavor for the curry. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium-high heat to quickly sear the beef, creating a nice crust. This enhances flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Brown in batches if needed, as this helps achieve that lovely golden color.
- After browning the meat, scrape up any tasty bits stuck on the bottom of the pan when you add liquids later, which will contribute to the curry’s depth of flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll elevate your Slow Cooker Beef Coconut Curry into a hearty, flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy!
Slow Cooker Beef Coconut Curry
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or coconut oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Cooked basmati or jasmine rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Slow Cooker Beef Coconut Curry will take about 20 minutes to prepare, and then you can let your slow cooker do its magic for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for a busy day! Just set it, forget it, and enjoy a comforting meal later.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef chunks. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. If your skillet gets crowded, feel free to do this in batches! Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sautéing Aromatics:
In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion. Cook until it softens, around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until everything smells amazing.
3. Mixing in the Spices:
Now, it’s time to stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat). Cook this mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to help release the flavors.
4. Creating the Sauce:
Add the tomato paste to the skillet and let it cook for about a minute to blend with the spices. Pour in the coconut milk and beef broth, stirring well and making sure to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.
5. Combining Everything:
Pour this flavorful sauce mixture over the browned beef in the slow cooker. Make sure the beef is well coated!
6. Cooking:
Season everything with salt and pepper, then cover the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is nice and tender.
7. Final Touches and Serving:
Once done, taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it warm over fluffy cooked rice and sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves on top for that vibrant finishing touch.
Enjoy your delicious, tender Slow Cooker Beef Coconut Curry!
Can I Use Frozen Beef Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Make sure to pat it dry before browning to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you like it spicier, feel free to add more cayenne or a dash of red pepper flakes to boost the heat to your liking.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
This recipe is already dairy-free since it uses coconut milk! Just make sure to check that your beef broth is also dairy-free, and you’re good to go!
