Beef Curry with Sweet Potatoes

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is golden brown and flavorful. This step enhances the richness of the curry.

Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Cook the spices for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, to release their aromatic oils and deepen their flavors.

Step 4: Build the Curry Base

Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor and depth to the curry. Next, pour in the coconut milk, followed by the beef broth (or water). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Sweet Potatoes and Beef

Once the curry base is simmering, add the diced sweet potatoes and return the browned beef to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. The sweet potatoes should become tender, and the beef should be cooked through and incredibly tender.

During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the sauce will thicken slightly. If the curry becomes too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier curry, you can add more chili powder or cayenne pepper.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the beef and sweet potatoes are tender and the curry has thickened to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the curry in bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice. For added texture and crunch, sprinkle some chopped cashews or toasted almonds on top.

Tips for Perfect Beef Curry with Sweet Potatoes

• Choice of beef: Beef stew meat or chuck roast works best for this recipe since they become tender and flavorful with slow cooking. If you use leaner cuts like sirloin, the beef may not be as tender.
• Customize the spices: If you prefer a milder curry, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper. For extra heat, you can add fresh chilies or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use fresh or canned sweet potatoes: While fresh sweet potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute canned sweet potatoes if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to drain them before adding to the curry.
• Make it vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version of this dish, swap the beef for chickpeas, lentils, or tofu. The curry will still be delicious and satisfying!
• Slow cooker option: This curry can also be made in a slow cooker. After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and spices, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the sweet potatoes and coconut milk, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
• Leftovers: This curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love Beef Curry with Sweet Potatoes

• Comforting and satisfying: This curry offers the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with tender beef, hearty sweet potatoes, and a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s just irresistible.
• Balanced and nourishing: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
• Perfect for meal prep: This curry stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or making ahead for a busy week.

Conclusion

Beef Curry with Sweet Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. With its tender beef, sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices, this curry is perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and a great way to incorporate nutrient-packed ingredients into your meals.

So next time you’re looking for a comforting dish with big flavor and minimal effort, give this beef curry a try. It’s a meal that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!