Hearty Caribbean Beef Curry

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Description:

Hearty Caribbean Beef Curry is a vibrant and aromatic dish featuring tender beef simmered in a rich coconut milk-based curry sauce with a blend of Caribbean spices. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbread.

Ingredients (Quantities):

For the Curry:

  • Beef chuck or stew meat: 2 lbs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • Salt: to taste
  • Black pepper: to taste
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Onion: 1 large (chopped)
  • Garlic: 4 cloves (minced)
  • Ginger: 1 tablespoon (freshly grated)
  • Bell pepper: 1 (chopped, any color)
  • Carrots: 2 (sliced)
  • Potatoes: 2 (peeled and cubed)
  • Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
  • Coconut milk: 1 can (14 oz)
  • Beef broth: 1 cup (low-sodium)
  • Curry powder: 2 tablespoons
  • Allspice: 1 teaspoon
  • Thyme: 1 teaspoon (dried or 2 teaspoons fresh)
  • Bay leaves: 2
  • Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Lime juice: from 1 lime

For Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro: chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges: for serving

Optional Ingredients:

  • Scotch bonnet pepper: for authentic heat
  • Green onions: sliced, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

  • Season the beef pieces with salt and black pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the beef in batches, browning it on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

  • In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the chopped bell pepper and sliced carrots, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.

3. Build the Curry Base:

  • Stir in the tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
  • Add the coconut milk, beef broth, curry powder, allspice, thyme, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine.

4. Add the Beef and Vegetables:

  • Return the browned beef to the pot along with the cubed potatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Simmer:

  • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the curry simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.

6. Finish the Dish:

  • Once the beef is tender, stir in the lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

7. Serve:

  • Serve the hearty Caribbean beef curry over steamed rice or with flatbread. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Tips for Success:

  • Marinate the beef: For extra flavor, consider marinating the beef in the spices and lime juice for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
  • Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Adjust the heat: If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding a whole Scotch bonnet pepper during cooking for authentic Caribbean heat. Remove it before serving.

Recommendations:

  • Pair with rice, roti, or naan for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days; they often taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Nutrition (per serving, estimated):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Enjoy this Hearty Caribbean Beef Curry—a flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean to your table!

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