There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of curry, especially when it comes together in just 30 minutes! After a particularly busy day, I often find myself craving something hearty yet hassle-free, and that’s where this Easy Keema Curry swoops in to save the day. Imagine the rich aroma of ground beef mingling with fragrant spices, creating a symphony of flavors that dance through your kitchen.
As I stir in the creamy coconut milk, I know this dish is perfect for everyone around the table—even those picky eaters. With vibrant peas adding a pop of color and delightful sweetness, it’s not just tasty; it’s family-approved! Ideal for a weeknight meal, this Ground Beef Curry (Keema Curry) pairs beautifully with rice or naan, making sure you savor every single bite. So, if you’re ready to ditch fast food and embrace delicious home cooking, let’s dive into this quick and satisfying recipe!
Why will you love Ground Beef Curry?
Easy and Quick: This Ground Beef Curry requires just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices, combined with creamy coconut milk, promises a savory experience that will delight your taste buds.
Family-Friendly: With its mild flavor and vibrant peas, it appeals to both adults and kids, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with different proteins or veggies, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table.
Satisfying Comfort: Each bowl is a warm hug—perfect for those cozy evenings when you need a little extra comfort.
Say goodbye to fast food and hello to this delicious homemade dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ground Beef Curry Ingredients
For the Curry Base
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and adds flavor; substitute with vegetable or coconut oil if desired.
• Ground Beef – The heart of this dish, providing richness; can be swapped with ground lamb, turkey, or plant-based alternatives.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Fresh Ginger – Contributes warmth and a spicy kick; can be replaced with 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger if fresh isn’t available.
• Garlic – Packed with robust flavor; use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon) as a convenient substitute.
• Sea or Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste for perfect seasoning.
• Cracked Black Pepper – Introduces mild heat; substitute with white pepper for a different taste.
• Curry Powder – Critical for authentic flavor; if unavailable, mix turmeric and cumin as a substitute.
• Garam Masala – Adds warmth and complexity; can be omitted, but it’s worth including.
• Turmeric – Provides vibrant color and earthy flavor; omit if necessary or substitute with extra curry powder.
• Tomato Paste – Adds umami richness; crushed tomatoes can work if you run out of paste.
• Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes – Builds depth and smokiness; you can use regular diced tomatoes in a pinch.
• Coconut Milk (full-fat, unsweetened) – Brings creamy texture to the curry; heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative works as a substitute.
For the Vegetables
• Potatoes (Yukon Gold) – Adds heartiness; can be replaced with sweet potatoes or omitted for a lighter dish.
• Frozen Baby Peas – Provides sweetness and color; feel free to swap with any fresh or other frozen vegetables you prefer.
For Garnish and Serving
• Cilantro – Freshly brightens the dish; can be omitted or replaced with parsley if you’re not a fan.
• Lime Juice – Elevates flavors with brightness; lemon juice can serve as a substitute if lime isn’t on hand.
• Steamed Rice or Naan – Perfect accompaniments for soaking up the curry; try cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Dive into this delicious Ground Beef Curry and create a comforting meal for your family tonight!
How to Make Ground Beef Curry
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Prep Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss diced Yukon Gold potatoes with olive oil and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and tender to the fork.
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Cook Beef and Onions: In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium-high. Add the ground beef and chopped yellow onion, cooking for about 6-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the freshly grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and inviting.
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Incorporate Spices: Sprinkle in salt, cracked black pepper, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, and tomato paste. Mix well and let the spices marry for about 2 minutes over the heat.
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Simmer Sauce: Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
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Finish Dish: Gently fold in the roasted potatoes and frozen baby peas. Continue to simmer until everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Just before serving, brighten the dish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Ground Beef Curry Variations
There are so many delightful ways you can make this Ground Beef Curry your own! Customize this dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
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Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or crushed chickpeas for a heartwarming plant-based option. This substitution still ensures loads of flavor and protein!
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Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-packed twist that kids will love. Their natural sweetness complements the spices beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to crank up the heat if you’re after an extra kick! A teaspoon can take your curry from mild to exciting.
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Creamy Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, try using heavy cream instead of coconut milk. It’ll lend a rich decadence that’s hard to resist!
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Roasted Veggie Boost: Toss in a medley of roasted bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for an added nutritional punch. These veggies add color and a pleasing crunch.
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Quinoa Variation: Replace the potatoes with quinoa or couscous for a grainy texture. This provides a wonderful nutty flavor while keeping your dish light!
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Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of cashews or almonds for a delightful crunch and rich flavor. Toast them first for an even better result!
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Curry Powder Fusion: Experiment with different curry powders or even garam masala blends to create a unique flavor profile that excites your palate.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Curry?
Enjoy your culinary adventure with the perfect pairings to elevate your Easy Keema Curry experience!
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the curry sauce beautifully, providing a delightful balance to the rich flavors.
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Warm Naan Bread: Soft and pillowy, naan is perfect for scooping up curry, making every bite a deliciously satisfying experience.
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Cucumber Raita: This cooling yogurt sauce with cucumber and mint offers a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the curry, enhancing the meal’s appeal.
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Roasted Cauliflower: The nutty flavor and crisp texture of roasted cauliflower complement the creamy curry and add an extra layer of nutrition.
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Chickpea Salad: Light and zesty, a salad of chickpeas, tomatoes, and herbs brings a fresh crunch, providing a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
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Mango Chutney: A dollop of sweet and tangy mango chutney adds a delightful burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices in the curry.
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Masala Chai: A warm, spiced tea makes for a soothing drink to enjoy alongside your meal, enhancing the Indian-inspired dining experience.
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Fruit Lassi: A sweet yogurt-based drink made with fruits like mango or banana cools the palate and rounds out the meal charmingly.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Keema Curry preparations are perfect for meal prep, saving you time and hassle during busy weeknights! You can chop and store the vegetables, like potatoes and onion, in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and sauté the aromatics, then let them cool and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful Ground Beef Curry, simply reheat the beef mixture, add the tomatoes, coconut milk, and any remaining fresh ingredients, simmer for a few minutes, and finish with your roasted potatoes and peas for a meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Curry
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Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is browned properly; this enhances flavor and richness in your curry for a truly delicious result.
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Don’t Skip Roasting: Roasting the Yukon Gold potatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious texture to your Ground Beef Curry—it’s a must!
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Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! If your family enjoys a kick, feel free to add more curry powder or even a sprinkle of cayenne to elevate the heat.
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Use Fresh Veggies: When possible, opt for fresh vegetables instead of frozen. They can add extra crunch and nutrition to your curry without losing their vibrant color.
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Mix and Match Protein: Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey, lamb, or even plant-based options to make your Ground Beef Curry suit your dietary preferences!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Curry
Fridge: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Allow the curry to cool before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label bags with date for easy tracking.
Reheating: Thaw frozen Ground Beef Curry in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Serving: Reheat as needed and enjoy over fresh rice or naan to savor every bite, just like the first time!
Ground Beef Curry Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground beef should I use for the curry?
I recommend using ground beef with a fat content between 80/20 and 85/15 for optimal flavor and moisture. This will give your curry a rich taste without making it too greasy. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or plant-based alternatives are excellent choices too!
How long can I store leftovers, and what’s the best method?
You can store leftover Ground Beef Curry in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To maintain its freshness, allow it to cool before sealing. If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them with the date for easy tracking!
Can I freeze Ground Beef Curry? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing this curry is a great way to have an easy meal on hand. Let the curry cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and make sure to label the bags with the date. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to restore the original creaminess.
What do I do if my curry is too spicy?
If you find your Ground Beef Curry has become too spicy, there are several ways to tone it down. One fantastic trick is to add more coconut milk or yogurt, which will help mellow out the heat. Additionally, incorporating extra vegetables or a bit of sugar can balance the flavors. Just make sure to adjust seasonings accordingly, tasting as you go!
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, keep the ingredient labels in mind. This curry contains common allergens such as garlic and onion; you can substitute these with alternatives like shallots or garlic powder. For dairy allergies, opt for a lactose-free cream or coconut milk. Always double-check your spices and any store-bought ingredients for potential allergens as well!
What can I substitute for coconut milk?
If you prefer not to use coconut milk or don’t have it on hand, heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk can work well. For a lighter texture, unsweetened yogurt can also be a good option, creating a creamy and tangy addition to your curry. Just remember to stir it in at the end of cooking to prevent curdling!
Quick Ground Beef Curry: Delicious Keema in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F. Toss diced Yukon Gold potatoes with olive oil and spread them out on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes until they are golden brown and tender to the fork.
- In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium-high. Add the ground beef and chopped yellow onion, cooking for about 6-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the freshly grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and inviting.
- Sprinkle in salt, cracked black pepper, curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, and tomato paste. Mix well and let the spices marry for about 2 minutes over the heat.
- Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.
- Gently fold in the roasted potatoes and frozen baby peas. Continue to simmer until everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes. Just before serving, brighten the dish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.