If you’re craving a meal that’s hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this creamy slow-cooked beef in coconut curry will become a new favorite. Tender beef chuck, gently simmered for hours in a fragrant coconut curry sauce, transforms into a melt-in-your-mouth dish that feels both exotic and homely. The rich, velvety sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy rice and warm garlic naan, making it the ultimate comfort food with a touch of spice.
Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or simply want a “set it and forget it” dish, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The slow cooker does all the hard work, while you enjoy the incredible aromas filling your kitchen.
📝 Ingredients
For the Beef Curry
2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized chunks
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp curry powder (mild or hot, depending on preference)
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp turmeric
1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
½ cup (120 ml) beef broth
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
To Serve
4–6 cups steamed jasmine or basmati rice
Garlic naan (store-bought or homemade, warmed before serving)
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges (optional, for brightness)
🍳 Step-by-Step Directions
- Sear the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in small batches (avoid overcrowding the pan) and sear them for 3–4 minutes on each side until browned. Browning locks in flavor and gives the curry depth. Transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
- Build the Aromatic Base
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and golden, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, tomato paste, and brown sugar. Stir and toast the mixture for 30 seconds, allowing the spices to bloom and release their full aroma.
- Create the Sauce
Pour in the coconut milk, beef broth, and soy sauce. Stir well to form a rich, creamy sauce. Carefully transfer this mixture into the slow cooker over the seared beef.
- Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and cook:
On Low for 7–8 hours, or
On High for 4–5 hours.
The beef should be fork-tender, and the sauce thick, luscious, and infused with deep curry flavor.
- Taste & Adjust
Before serving, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you’d like a touch of acidity, squeeze in a little fresh lime juice.
- Serve & Enjoy
Spoon generous portions of the curry over a bed of jasmine or basmati rice, and serve with warm garlic naan on the side. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
⏱️ Cooking Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours on low (or 4–5 on high)
Total Time: ~7 hrs 20 min
Servings: 6
Calories: ~650 kcal per serving
💡 Recipe Tips & Variations
Spice Level: Use mild curry powder for a gentle warmth or hot curry powder for more heat. You can also add fresh chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you love it spicy.
Protein Options: Swap beef with lamb, chicken thighs, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Vegetable Boost: Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes to the slow cooker for extra texture and nutrition.
Make It Creamier: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of plain yogurt before serving for extra richness.
Meal Prep Friendly: This curry tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This curry is a complete meal on its own, but you can take it to the next level with sides and garnishes:
Rice: Jasmine rice adds fragrance, while basmati gives a lighter, fluffy texture.
Naan Bread: Warm garlic naan is perfect for scooping up the luscious sauce.
Fresh Garnish: Cilantro, parsley, or even thinly sliced green onions bring freshness to balance the richness.
Crisp Salad: A cucumber and tomato salad with a lemony dressing makes a refreshing side.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Effortless: The slow cooker does most of the work.
Comforting: Rich, creamy, and deeply flavorful.
Flexible: Easily adjustable to your spice preference.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serves a crowd and can be doubled for larger portions.
✨ This dish combines the soul-warming feel of a classic beef stew with the exotic, creamy flavors of coconut curry. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
