Tired of the same old beef curry recipes that take hours to prepare? What if I told you that you could have a delicious, restaurant-quality beef curry recipe on the table in just 30 minutes?
This quick and easy beef curry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a flavorful, comforting meal without the hassle.
Ingredients List

- 1 lb beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 teaspoons curry powder (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
- Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for serving
Substitutions: For a richer flavor, use beef broth instead of water. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste. For a creamier texture, substitute coconut milk or heavy cream for the yogurt.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This beef curry recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, which is 50% faster than the average beef curry recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
Reduce the heat to medium and add the onions to the same skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Stir in the curry powder, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
Step 5: Simmer the Curry
Pour in the beef broth or water and diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Return the beef and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the lid and stir in the yogurt or coconut milk. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges and your choice of accompaniments, such as basmati rice or naan bread.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe
Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 760mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Total Sugars: 4g
Protein: 28g
This beef curry recipe is a good source of protein and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a satisfying option for those watching their carb intake.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version, substitute lean ground beef or turkey for the beef cubes. You can also use low-fat yogurt or coconut milk to reduce the overall fat content. To boost the nutrient profile, consider adding diced bell peppers, spinach, or other vegetables to the curry.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile beef curry recipe pairs beautifully with basmati rice, naan bread, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a heartier meal, serve it over mashed potatoes or with a side of roasted vegetables. You can also use the leftovers to create a delicious beef curry wrap or stuffed into a baked potato.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the beef properly: Browning the beef cubes before simmering helps develop a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Using too little spice: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice levels to your taste preferences. Start with the recommended amounts and add more if desired.
- Overcooking the beef: Simmering the beef for too long can cause it to become tough and dry. Check for tenderness after 10-15 minutes.
- Skipping the yogurt or coconut milk: This final addition adds a creamy texture and helps balance the flavors.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Leftover Indian beef curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To extend its shelf life, you can also freeze the curry for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This quick and easy beef curry recipe proves that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a flavorful, satisfying meal. With its rich blend of spices, tender beef, and creamy sauce, this curry is sure to become a new family favorite.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this 30-minute beef curry recipe a try tonight! Don’t forget to share your thoughts and any personal twists you added in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more quick and delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other blog posts.
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