Massaman Beef curry

Story behind the dish

Imagine the warm aroma of roasted peanuts mingling with fragrant spices as this Massaman Beef Curry slowly bubbles away. This comforting dish showcases the rich, layered flavors of Thailand with tender beef, creamy coconut, savory tamarind, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for cozy nights or special dinners, making this curry is like hosting a mini Thai festival right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 3 oz (85 g) peanuts
• 13.5 oz (400 ml) can coconut cream
• 4 tablespoons Massaman curry paste
• 1.3 lbs (600 g) stewing beef, cut into strips
• 15 oz (450 g) waxy potatoes, cut into chunks
• 1 small onion, cut into thin wedges
• 4 lime leaves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar or soft light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 red chili, deseeded and finely sliced, for serving
• Jasmine rice, for serving

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the peanuts on a baking tray and roast for 5 minutes until golden. Once cool enough to handle, roughly chop the peanuts. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large casserole dish with a lid, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut cream over medium heat. Add the Massaman curry paste and fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the beef strips to the dish, frying until they are well coated and sealed. Stir in the remaining coconut cream along with half a cup of water.
4. Pour in the chopped potatoes, onion wedges, lime leaves, cinnamon stick, tamarind paste, sugar, and fish sauce.
5. Mix everything well, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and transfer the dish to the oven. Let it cook for 2 hours until the beef is tender.
6. Once cooked, discard the cinnamon stick and lime leaves. Sprinkle with the sliced red chili and the remaining chopped peanuts.
7. Serve the hearty curry straight from the dish alongside steaming jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For added texture and crunch, sprinkle extra roasted peanuts over the curry just before serving.
• Pair this comforting dish with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness and spice.

Closing thoughts

This Massaman Beef Curry is a soul-warming dish full of depth and vibrant flavors that transport your taste buds straight to Thailand. With its tender beef, rich spices, and creamy coconut sauce, it’s a wonderful dish to make for loved ones or to enjoy as a treat for yourself. Happy cooking and even happier feasts!