Hearty Caribbean Beef Curry: A Flavor-Packed Island Feast

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Experience the warmth and vibrancy of the Caribbean with this hearty beef curry! Tender beef chunks simmered in a rich coconut curry, flavored with spices and fresh vegetables, make this dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Pair it with rice or flatbread, and enjoy a taste of the tropics in every bite!

Ingredients

For the Curry:

  • Beef chuck or stew meat: 2 lbs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Salt and 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
  • 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 with salt and pepper. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
    • Brown the beef in batches, searing each side. Remove the beef and set aside.
  2. Cook the Aromatics
    • In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
    • Add bell pepper and carrots, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  3. Build the Curry Base
    • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
    • Add coconut milk, beef broth, curry powder, allspice, thyme, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir to combine.
  4. Add Beef and Vegetables
    • Return the browned beef to the pot and add cubed potatoes. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer
    • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the curry simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors are fully developed. Add more broth if needed.
  6. Finish the Dish
    • Once the beef is tender, add lime juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving.
  7. Serve
    • Serve the beef curry over rice or with flatbread. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime for extra zest.

Tips for Success:

  • Marinate the Beef: For extra flavor, marinate the beef in spices and lime juice for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
  • Customize the Vegetables: Add peas, green beans, or sweet potatoes for additional nutrition and flavor.
  • Adjust the Heat: Add a Scotch bonnet pepper during cooking for a Caribbean kick, but remove it before serving if you prefer a milder dish.

Serving Recommendations:

Pair with rice, roti, or naan for a complete meal. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and often taste even better as the flavors meld.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

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

Enjoy the bold and comforting flavors of this Hearty Caribbean Beef Curry—a perfect dish to bring a bit of the Caribbean to your kitchen!

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