Tender Slow-Cooked Chinese Beef Curry
Cozy up with this tender, slow-cooked Chinese beef curry in a rich, savory sauce infused with garlic, ginger, and five-spice. This recipe is perfect for effortless meal prep or a make-ahead family gathering. The beef curry is freezer-friendly and packed with flavor, ideal for serving over rice or noodles for an easy at-home fakeaway!
Recipe Overview
The key to this slow-cooked Chinese beef curry lies in the tender braising of meat, creating a dish that’s both comforting and rich in flavor. This recipe not only caters to families but also holds well when you prepare it in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Furthermore, it’s incredibly versatile, with options for freezing and reheating left-overs, ensuring minimal waste while maximizing taste.
Essential Ingredients for Chinese Beef Curry
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) braising beef (or stewing beef)
- 3 tbsp plain (all-purpose) flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 large onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp minced ginger (or ginger paste)
- 1 tsp Chinese five spice
- 500 ml (2 cups + 1 tbsp) beef stock
- 60 ml (4 tbsp) dark soy sauce
- 2 tbsp soft brown sugar
- 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms
For a rich flavor, opt for dark soy sauce, balancing its robust profile with the sweetness from brown sugar. The braising beef, often cut into cubes, is perfect for slow cooking, enhancing tenderness and flavor, while Chinese five-spice adds a distinctive aromatic quality.
Preparation Steps for the Best Beef Curry
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 160°C (325°F, fan).
- Prepare the beef: Toss the beef chunks in a bowl with flour, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Brown the beef: Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Sauté the onion: Lower the heat and add onions, cooking until they start to soften (about 5 minutes).
- Add aromatics: Stir in garlic, ginger, and five-spice, cooking for 30 seconds.
- Combine liquids: Pour in beef stock, soy sauce, brown sugar, and add mushrooms; bring to a boil.
- Oven braise: Cover and cook in the oven for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally, until meat is tender. Optionally, use a slow cooker on low for 7-8 hours for even more convenience.
Throughout cooking, ensure to add a little water or beef stock if the curry appears dry. Finally, serve with egg-fried or boiled rice, garnishing with chili flakes and spring onions to enhance presentation and taste.
Serving Suggestions for Chinese Beef Curry
To enjoy your Chinese Beef Curry, plate the dish over a serving of fluffy rice. Adding a few prawn crackers can enhance texture, while garnishing with sliced spring onions and a sprinkle of chili flakes can cater to varying spice tolerances. For further kitchen essentials and accessories, check out Amazon for high-quality options.
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