Kerala Beef Curry Recipe: How to make easy Beef Curry?

Kerala style beef curry, also known as “Beef Ularthiyathu,” is a warm, aromatic dish that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Kerala, a state in southern India. This dish is characterized by tender, succulent pieces of beef simmered in a flavorful blend of spices, coconut oil, and fresh ingredients that bring out the natural flavors of the meat. The use of ingredients such as coconut, curry leaves, and a medley of spices not only defines the unique taste of this curry but also adds layers of complexity, making every bite a delicious experience. Whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this quick recipe allows you to bring a taste of Kerala to your dining table in no time.

Ingredients

To make Kerala style beef curry, gather the following ingredients:

For the Beef Marinade:

• 500 grams (1.1 lbs) of beef, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons of chili powder
• 1 tablespoon of coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 tablespoon of garam masala
• 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Curry:

• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1 large onion, finely sliced
• 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust for spice level)
• 1 sprig of curry leaves
• 1 medium tomato, chopped
• 1-2 tablespoons of fresh coconut, grated (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnishing

Accompaniments (Optional):

• Steamed rice or appams (a type of fermented rice pancake)
• Cucumber salad or pickles
• Yogurt or raita

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Beef

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ginger-garlic paste, and salt. Squeeze in the lime juice and mix everything thoroughly to form a paste.
2. Marinate the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (if you have more time, you can marinate for up to 1 hour for deeper flavors).

Step 2: Cooking the Curry

3. Heat the Oil: In a large heavy-bottomed pan or a Dutch oven, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
4. Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Green Chilies and Curry Leaves: Stir in the slit green chilies and curry leaves. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
6. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and meld into the mixture, about 3 minutes.
7. Add the Marinated Beef: Now, add the marinated beef to the pan, stirring well to mix it with the onion and tomato base. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the beef to sear slightly.
8. Simmer the Curry: Pour in enough water to cover the beef (approximately 1 cup), bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Check for Tenderness: Once the beef is cooked through and tender (you can adjust the cooking time based on the cut of beef), taste and adjust the salt as needed.
10. Final Touches: If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the lid towards the end and let it cook for a few more minutes until the desired consistency is achieved. Stir in the grated coconut if using.

Step 3: Serve

11. Garnish the Curry: Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

How to Serve:

Kerala style beef curry is best served hot, alongside steaming bowls of rice or appams. The curry pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed Rice: The simple flavors of rice complement the rich and spicy beef curry perfectly.
• Appams: These fluffy, soft pancakes have a slightly sweet flavor that balances the spices in the curry.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad helps to cool the palate.
• Yogurt or Raita: A side of plain yogurt or raita can help to temper the heat and add a creamy texture.

Beverage Pairings:

Refreshing drinks like buttermilk, coconut water or a light beer can also enhance your meal experience.

Nutritional Information

Kerala style beef curry is not just delicious but also offers a range of health benefits. Here’s a brief overview:

• Protein-Packed: Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Rich in Iron: The dish provides iron, which is crucial for blood health and helps prevent anemia.
• Balanced Fats: Coconut oil, used in moderation, contains medium-chain fatty acids which can be beneficial for metabolism.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The inclusion of onions, tomatoes, and spices adds vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants that support immune health.

Overall, this Kerala style beef curry is not only a delightful dish bursting with flavors but also a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Conclusion

In just under 30 minutes, you have created a mouthwatering Kerala style beef curry that encapsulates the rich flavors of southern India. This dish is versatile enough to be served for family meals, special occasions, or casual gatherings. With this recipe, you can impress even the most discerning palates. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of Kerala fill your kitchen. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy of sharing this dish with loved ones.