Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe is a delightful dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with a tropical twist. This recipe features tender, fall-apart beef simmered in a rich, spiced coconut curry sauce, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Its unique combination of flavors and aromas will transport you to a culinary paradise, ensuring that every bite is satisfying and unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices like curry powder and turmeric creates a rich, aromatic sauce that enhances the beef’s natural flavors.
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with fluffy rice or enjoy it on its own for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal choice for leftovers or meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother and more efficient, gather the following tools before you begin.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for braising, these pots retain heat well and ensure even cooking of your beef.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, enhancing your overall cooking experience.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while providing optimal control during cooking.

Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into large chunks
For the Curry Sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup beef broth
How to Make Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the onion is softened, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate Spices
Add the curry powder, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all spices with the aromatics.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Increase heat to medium-high and add the chunks of beef chuck to the pot. Sear on all sides until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Pour in Coconut Milk and Broth
Once browned, pour in the coconut milk and beef broth. Stir well to combine everything.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
Step 7: Serve
Once cooked through, serve your Coconut Curry Braised Beef over fluffy rice or enjoy it solo as a hearty meal. Enjoy!
How to Serve Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe
Coconut curry braised beef is a rich and flavorful dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the coconut curry sauce wonderfully.
- Brown Rice: A nutty alternative that adds fiber and texture to your plate.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that pairs well while providing a light base for the beef.
Vegetables
- Sautéed Greens: Quickly sautéing spinach or kale with garlic adds freshness and color to your dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini roasted with olive oil bring sweetness and a caramelized flavor.
Garnishes
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and complements the spices in the curry.
- Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle chili flakes on top before serving.
How to Perfect Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe
To create the most flavorful coconut curry braised beef, consider these helpful tips for achieving tenderness and depth of flavor.
- Choose the right cut: Using beef chuck ensures it becomes tender during slow cooking due to its marbling.
- Brown the beef: Searing the chunks before braising adds rich flavor through caramelization.
- Add aromatics early: Sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger enhances the overall taste of the curry base.
- Use high-quality coconut milk: Opt for full-fat coconut milk for a creamier texture and richer taste.
- Let it simmer longer: Allowing the beef to braise for several hours results in fall-apart tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning at the end: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices after cooking for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your coconut curry braised beef can elevate your meal. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Naan Bread: Soft, fluffy naan is perfect for scooping up curry sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, lime juice, and mint helps balance the richness of the dish.
- Mango Chutney: Sweet mango chutney adds a tangy contrast that complements the flavors of curry.
- Lentil Dal: Creamy lentil dal offers protein and pairs well with any Indian-inspired meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with spices provides an alternative grain option that’s hearty yet light.
- Raita: A cool yogurt-based side made with cucumber can help temper the heat from the spices in your curry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not searing the beef: Skipping this step can lead to less flavor. Always brown the beef chunks in oil before braising for a rich taste.
- Ignoring spice measurements: Using too much or too little of the spices can alter the dish’s flavor balance. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
- Using low-quality coconut milk: Cheap coconut milk can affect the creaminess of your curry. Choose full-fat coconut milk for a rich and satisfying sauce.
- Cooking on high heat: Braising requires low and slow cooking. Higher temperatures can make the beef tough instead of tender.
- Neglecting to taste as you go: Not adjusting seasoning during cooking can result in bland flavors. Taste your dish regularly and tweak as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Cool completely before refrigerating to maintain quality.
Freezing Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe
- Freeze in a sturdy, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot all the way through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe?
Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe features tender beef slowly cooked in a rich coconut curry sauce, infused with aromatic spices for deep flavor.
Can I use other meats in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken, lamb, or turkey if you prefer. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the meat choice.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include fresh chili peppers during cooking according to your spice preference.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe stores well and makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prepping.
Can I add vegetables to my Coconut Curry Braised Beef?
Definitely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
Final Thoughts
This Coconut Curry Braised Beef Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to impress at any dinner table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or spices. Don’t hesitate to give it a try; it’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep!
Coconut Curry Braised Beef
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Coconut Curry Braised Beef, a dish that transforms tender chunks of beef into a comforting masterpiece simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce. This recipe marries an array of spices, including aromatic curry powder and turmeric, ensuring every bite is both satisfying and unforgettable. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish transports you to a culinary paradise with its tropical twist. Pair it with fluffy rice or enjoy it solo for a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and even better as leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into large 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 turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger; cook until fragrant.
- Add curry powder, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper; mix well.
- Increase heat to medium-high; add beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned.
- Pour in coconut milk and beef broth; stir to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
- Serve over rice or enjoy on its own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg




