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Ultimate Beef Massaman Curry

Ultimate Beef Massaman Curry: A Comforting Thai Delight

Experience the Ultimate Beef Massaman Curry, a comforting Thai dish that warms the soul with tender beef and creamy sauce.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Massaman Paste
  • 1 medium red onion Base flavor and sweetness; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 3 mild red chillies Adds heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander Provides warmth and earthiness to the curry.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Enhances the savory aspect for depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds comforting sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper Offers subtle heat; can be substituted with black pepper.
  • 4 cloves garlic Essential aromatic quality that brightens the dish.
  • 1 stalk lemongrass Imparts unique citrus flavor; use paste or lemon zest if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger Adds warmth and sharpness to the paste.
  • 1 teaspoon shrimp paste Optional, deepens umami flavor; omit for vegetarian recipes.
  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce Provides a salty, umami boost; ensure it's gluten-free if needed.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar Helps balance flavors with a touch of sweetness.
  • 4 stalks fresh coriander Adds herbal freshness (reserve leaves for garnish).
  • 1 teaspoon salt Critical for enhancing all the flavors.
For the Curry
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Ideal for searing meat and cooking.
  • 2 tablespoons cornflour Used for coating beef and thickening the curry.
  • 2 pounds braising beef (beef chuck) Main protein that stews into tenderness; alternatives include lamb shoulder or chicken thighs.
  • 4 cups beef stock Provides the rich liquid base; check for gluten-free version if necessary.
  • 1 can canned coconut milk Adds creaminess; make sure it's gluten-free.
  • 1 pound baby new potatoes Adds body and texture; halve if they’re large.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice Brings brightness and acidity to balance flavors.
To Serve
  • 4 cups steamed rice Complements the curry and absorbs all that delicious sauce.
  • 1 cup chopped fresh coriander Fresh garnish that enhances flavor beautifully.
  • chopped red chillies Optional for that extra kick of heat.
  • 4 lime wedges Add an extra zing when served.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Steps
  1. Prepare the Massaman Paste: In a food processor, combine the red onion, mild red chillies, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground cinnamon, white pepper, garlic, lemongrass, fresh ginger, shrimp paste (if using), fish sauce, brown sugar, fresh coriander stalks, and salt. Blend until a smooth paste forms, taking about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Coat and Sear the Beef: Toss the braising beef pieces in a bowl with cornflour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Heat vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
  3. Add Massaman Paste: Once all the beef is seared, reduce the heat to medium and add the prepared Massaman paste to the Dutch oven. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Simmer the Curry: Pour in the beef stock and canned coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
  5. Add Potatoes: Stir in the baby new potatoes, ensuring they're submerged. Cover and cook for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  6. Finish and Serve: Stir in lime juice to brighten the flavors. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with chopped coriander, sliced red chillies, and lime wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 30gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 950mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Prep all ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience. Adjust spice levels based on preference.

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