Slow Cooker Beef Curry

This Slow Cooker Beef Curry is a warming, hearty, and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With tender chunks of beef, fragrant spices, and a rich, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce, it’s a dish that practically makes itself while you go about your day. Serve it with fluffy boiled rice, warm naan, and crispy poppadoms to soak up every last drop of the delicious curry sauce.

Mildly spiced yet full of flavor, this curry is approachable for those who enjoy Indian-inspired dishes without overwhelming heat, and it’s easily customizable to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hands-off cooking in the slow cooker—perfect for busy days
• Tender beef infused with aromatic Indian spices
• Mildly spiced, family-friendly, and comforting
• Can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day

Ingredients

• Lean stewing/casserole beef (750 g, cut into bite-sized cubes): Tenderizes beautifully in the slow cooker.
• Onions (2, finely chopped): Sweetens and flavors the sauce.
• Garlic (3 cloves, crushed) and fresh ginger (thumb-sized piece, grated): Aromatic base for the curry.
• Fresh red chili (deseeded and chopped) or ½–1 tsp chili powder: Adds gentle heat.
• Ground cumin (2 tsp), ground coriander (2 tsp), ground turmeric (1 tsp): Classic Indian spices for depth of flavor.
• Fine salt (1 tsp): Enhances all flavors.
• Bell pepper (1, red or green, diced): Adds color and subtle sweetness.
• Beef stock (150 ml): Keeps the beef moist and builds sauce richness.
• Chopped tomatoes (1 x 400 g can) and tomato puree (2 tbsp): Forms the flavorful tomato base.
• Mango chutney (2 tbsp): Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• Garam masala (2 tsp): Added at the end for a fragrant finishing touch.
• Cornflour (1½ tbsp mixed with 3 tbsp cold water, optional): To thicken the sauce if desired.
• Chopped fresh coriander (optional, for garnish)

Optional Enhancements

• Natural or coconut yogurt (150 ml): Stir in the last 30 minutes for a creamy sauce.
• Ginger and garlic puree: Can save prep time instead of using fresh.
• Fresh onion and tomato salad: Finely chopped with a touch of vinegar for a refreshing side.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Curry

Prepare the Curry

Place the beef cubes, chopped onion, crushed garlic, grated ginger, fresh chili (or chili powder), ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, bell pepper, beef stock, chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, and mango chutney into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Slow Cook

Cover with the lid and cook on HIGH for 4–5 hours or LOW for 6–7 hours, until the beef is tender and flavorful.

Finish the Curry

30 minutes before serving, stir in the garam masala. If the sauce is too thin for your liking, mix cornflour with cold water and stir into the curry to thicken. For a creamy version, stir in 150 ml of natural or coconut yogurt during the last 30 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot with boiled rice, naan bread, and poppadoms. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander if desired. A simple finely chopped onion and tomato salad lightly dressed with vinegar pairs wonderfully with this curry.

Tips for Success

• Browning the beef before adding to the slow cooker is optional but enhances flavor.
• Adjust chili according to your heat preference; remove seeds for milder curry.
• For extra flavor, allow the curry to rest and serve the next day—it tastes even better.
• Stir occasionally if cooking on high to ensure even cooking.

Equipment Needed

• Slow cooker
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Small bowl for cornflour slurry (optional)

Recipe Variations

• Spicier Version: Add extra fresh chili or cayenne powder.
• Creamy Version: Stir in coconut or natural yogurt in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Vegetable Boost: Add potatoes, carrots, or peas for extra nutrition.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker and refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fragrant boiled rice, warm naan bread, crispy poppadoms, and a side of mango chutney. Sprinkle with fresh coriander for extra freshness and vibrant color.

FAQs

Can I prepare this curry ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely—add more fresh chili, chili powder, or a pinch of cayenne.

Is this curry suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for 4 days and reheats beautifully.

Can I make it creamier?
Yes, stir in natural or coconut yogurt in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef Curry is a comforting, hands-off meal that delivers tender, flavorful beef in a rich, mildly spiced sauce. Perfect for busy days or make-ahead dinners, it pairs beautifully with rice, naan, and poppadoms for a satisfying, family-friendly feast. Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, this curry is sure to become a favorite in your rotation of go-to slow cooker meals.

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