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What Is This Dish All About?
This Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Coconut Milk is comfort food with soul. We’re talking tender chunks of beef simmered slowly in a lush blend of coconut milk, tomatoes, and warming spices. The flavors are deep, layered, and complex—but the process is easy and low-maintenance. The longer it cooks, the better it gets.
Served over a bed of fragrant rice, every bite is creamy, rich, and gently spiced. This is one of those meals that fills the house with an irresistible aroma… the kind that has everyone asking, “Is dinner ready yet?”
Why You’ll Love This Slow-Cooked Beef Curry
Tender, fall-apart beef after hours of gentle simmering
Bold, complex flavor from curry, ginger, cumin, and coconut milk
One-pot convenience—easy cleanup and no-fuss prep
Perfect for make-ahead meals—flavors deepen overnight
Totally customizable for spice level and ingredients
What Does It Taste Like?
The first bite is rich, savory, and slightly sweet from the coconut milk. The beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, surrounded by a sauce that’s silky, spiced, and full of depth. The tomatoes add brightness, the garlic and ginger bring warmth, and the spices round everything out into a deeply satisfying dish.
It’s the kind of flavor that feels slow and intentional. Because it is.
Health & Comfort in a Bowl
Beef chuck is budget-friendly and packed with flavor
Coconut milk offers healthy fats and a creamy texture
Anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic
Protein-rich and gluten-free when served over plain rice
Great for batch cooking or freezer meals
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1½-inch chunks
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp curry powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp turmeric
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp chili flakes (optional for a kick)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
½ cup beef broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
Tools You’ll Need
Large skillet (for browning)
Slow cooker or heavy-bottomed Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups
Optional Additions & Substitutions
Add vegetables: Toss in chunks of sweet potato, carrots, or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.
Swap the protein: Chicken thighs, lamb, or even tofu work beautifully.
For more spice: Add a diced chili or more chili flakes.
Want creamier sauce? Stir in a spoonful of plain yogurt or a splash of cream at the end.
How to Make This Slow-Cooked Beef Curry
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season the beef with salt and pepper. In batches, sear the beef until browned on all sides. This builds that gorgeous, rich flavor base. Set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, lower heat and add more oil if needed. Cook the onion until soft and golden (about 5–7 minutes). Add garlic, ginger, and all the spices. Cook another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef, onion-spice mix, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth into your slow cooker (or Dutch oven).
Step 4: Let It Simmer
Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours
Dutch Oven (Stovetop/Oven): Simmer on low heat, covered, for 2.5–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
The beef should be incredibly tender and the sauce rich and slightly thickened.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give it a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or chili if needed. You can also stir in a handful of chopped cilantro for freshness.
What to Serve With This Curry
Basmati or jasmine rice (cooked with a cinnamon stick and cardamom for extra fragrance!)
Warm naan or roti for scooping
Simple cucumber raita or yogurt on the side to cool the spice
Quick pickled red onions or mango chutney for contrast
A sprinkle of fresh herbs (cilantro or mint) for brightness
Tips for the Best Beef Curry
Brown your beef well—this caramelization gives deep flavor
Don’t skip the tomato paste—it adds body and richness
Coconut milk matters—use full-fat for the creamiest texture
Let it sit for at least 15 minutes after cooking—flavors settle beautifully
Like leftovers? It tastes even better the next day
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months
Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce
Quick Facts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours (slow cooker) / 2.5–3 hours (stovetop)
Total Time: Up to 8.5 hours
Serves: 6
Skill Level: Easy comfort cooking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown beef and onions. Then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with a natural release.
Is this dish spicy?
It’s gently warming, not hot. Omit chili flakes for a mild version, or add more if you like heat!
Can I make it dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written.
What cut of beef is best?
Beef chuck is ideal—it gets super tender and absorbs flavor. Brisket or stewing beef also work.
In Conclusion: Why This Curry Will Win Your Heart
This Slow-Cooked Beef Curry is pure comfort food magic—rich, hearty, and surprisingly simple. The depth of flavor you get from just a handful of ingredients and a few hours of simmering? Unreal. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell like love and your dinner table feel like home.
💬 Tried it? I’d Love to Hear From You!
Leave a comment or tag me on Pinterest and show off your beautiful beef curry bowls. Seriously, your photos make my day.
More Cozy Coconut Milk Recipes You’ll Love
🍲 Thai Coconut Chicken Soup (Tom Kha Gai)
🥥 Creamy Lentil & Coconut Stew
🍛 Sweet Potato Chickpea Coconut Curry
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Slow-Cooked Beef Curry in Coconut Milk
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season the beef with salt and pepper. In batches, sear the beef until browned on all sides. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, lower heat and add more oil if needed. Cook the onion until soft and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and spices. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Transfer the beef, onion-spice mix, coconut milk, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth into your slow cooker or Dutch oven.
- Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours in the slow cooker, or simmer covered for 2.5–3 hours in a Dutch oven. Stir occasionally until beef is tender and sauce thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili if needed. Optionally stir in chopped cilantro before serving.
