Authentic and Flavorful Beef Masala: A Traditional Indian Dish

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of beef, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger, grated
  • 2 teaspoons of garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of coriander
  • 1 teaspoon of chili powder
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
  • 1 can of coconut milk (13.5 ounces)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Basmati rice for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Add the garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder to the pan and stir well.
  5. Add the cubed beef to the pan and cook until all sides are browned.
  6. Add the diced tomatoes and coconut milk to the pan, stirring well to combine with the other ingredients.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and tender.
  8. Season with salt to taste.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
  10. Serve the Beef Masala over basmati rice.

Tools for making

  • Cutting Board - Used for chopping the onion and preparing the ingredients.
  • Chef's Knife - Essential for cutting the beef into cubes and mincing the garlic.
  • Grater - Needed to grate the ginger.
  • Large Pan - Used for cooking the beef masala.
  • Wooden Spoon - Ideal for stirring and sautéing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Can Opener - Required to open the cans of diced tomatoes and coconut milk.
  • Cover/Lid - Used to cover the pan and allow the beef to simmer.
  • Serving Bowl - Used for serving the cooked Beef Masala.
  • Rice Cooker - Optional, but useful for cooking the basmati rice.

Recipe variations

  • Chicken Masala: Substitute chicken for beef in the recipe.
  • Lamb Masala: Substitute lamb for beef in the recipe.
  • Vegetable Masala: Omit the beef and add a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, peas, and bell peppers.
  • Tofu Masala: Substitute tofu for beef in the recipe for a vegetarian option.
  • Spicy Masala: Increase the amount of chili powder or add chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra kick of heat.
  • Creamy Masala: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or yogurt at the end to make the sauce richer and creamier.
  • Coconut Masala: Add shredded coconut to the sauce for a more pronounced coconut flavor.
  • Healthy Masala: Use lean beef or trim off excess fat to make the dish lighter.
  • Herb-infused Masala: Add fresh herbs such as mint, cilantro, or curry leaves to enhance the flavors.
  • Smoky Masala: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or add a few drops of liquid smoke for a smoky twist.

Recipe overview

If you're a fan of Indian cuisine or simply enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish, this Beef Masala recipe is going to become one of your favorites. This classic Indian dish is rich and aromatic, filled with robust spices and tender beef, all cooked down into a deliciously thick and comforting stew. The Beef Masala recipe involves simmering beef in a mixture of onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of traditional Indian spices, including garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. The addition of diced tomatoes and coconut milk adds depth and creaminess to the dish, creating an inviting balance of flavors. Although the ingredient list may appear long, the process is relatively straightforward, and the result is a meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Serve over a bed of basmati rice, and you have a complete meal that's both satisfying and brimming with the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. Whether you're new to Indian food or a seasoned veteran, this Beef Masala is sure to impress. So gather your spices, grab your apron, and let's get cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use a different cut of beef for this recipe. However, it is recommended to use cuts that are suitable for slow cooking or braising, such as chuck roast or stew meat, as they become tender and flavorful when cooked for a longer period of time.
  2. Can I substitute the coconut milk? If you're not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute it with an equal amount of heavy cream or yogurt. This will slightly alter the flavor and richness of the dish, but it will still be delicious.
  3. Can I adjust the spice level? Absolutely! If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether. Likewise, if you prefer it spicier, you can increase the amount or add some red pepper flakes.
  4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Sear the beef and sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger in a separate pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the spices, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
  5. Can I make this recipe in advance? Certainly! In fact, the flavors tend to deepen and develop if you make this dish a day ahead and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight. Simply reheat it gently on the stove before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - to chop and prepare the onion, garlic, and ginger.
  • Chef's knife - for cutting the beef into cubes and mincing the garlic.
  • Grater - to grate the ginger.
  • Large pan - for cooking the beef masala.
  • Wooden spoon - for stirring and combining the ingredients in the pan.
  • Can opener - to open the cans of diced tomatoes and coconut milk.
  • Lid - to cover the pan while simmering the beef masala.
  • Serving dish - for presenting the Beef Masala.
  • Rice cooker or pot - for cooking the basmati rice.
  • Serving utensils - for serving the Beef Masala and rice.

Origin stories

Beef Masala traces its roots back to the diverse and rich culinary legacy of India, where spices and herbs are used abundantly in cooking. Masala, a term widely used in the Indian subcontinent, refers to a blend of spices, which can either be a combination of dried spices, or a paste made from a mixture of spices and other ingredients—providing a tantalizing array of flavors to dishes. The use of beef in the recipe, however, differs based on religious and cultural practices across regions. The state of Kerala in South India, with a significant population of Christians and Muslims, has a long-standing tradition of consuming beef. One of the most popular dishes from this region is Beef Masala. This dish is a harmonious symphony of robust flavors and tender meat, traditionally slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the meat to absorb the rich and vibrant flavors of the spices. It's often served with rice or flatbreads, making it a staple comfort meal for many households.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.