Beef Stew Kerala Recipe: Authentic Flavor in Easy Steps

Kerala, the land of spices and coconut groves, offers some of the most flavorful and hearty dishes in Indian cuisine. One such beloved comfort food is the Beef Stew Kerala style.

This stew is rich, aromatic, and slow-cooked to tender perfection with a blend of traditional spices and creamy coconut milk. It’s a dish that warms your soul and satisfies your taste buds, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

The Kerala beef stew is distinct from other beef stews because of its subtle yet complex flavors, combining the heat of black pepper and the sweetness of coconut milk. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to try something new with authentic regional flair, this recipe is a must-try.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with appam, idiyappam, or even steamed rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Stew Kerala recipe is a perfect balance of spices and creaminess, making it both comforting and flavorful. The slow cooking tenderizes the beef, allowing it to soak up the rich coconut gravy infused with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.

It’s also quite versatile; you can adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

The recipe is straightforward, ideal for home cooks who love authentic South Indian flavors but want a hassle-free cooking experience. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with a dish that’s both exotic and comforting.

If you enjoy hearty meat dishes with a touch of coconutty sweetness, this stew will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef (preferably chuck or brisket, cut into cubes)
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 2 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 4 cloves
• 3 green cardamom pods
• 1 small stick cinnamon
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 400 ml thick coconut milk
• 200 ml thin coconut milk
• A handful of curry leaves
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• Water as needed

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Bowl for mixing spices
• Grater or coconut scraper (optional if using fresh coconut milk)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Rinse the beef cubes well under cold water and drain. Set aside.
2. Heat coconut oil: In a heavy-bottomed pot or pressure cooker, warm the coconut oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté whole spices and onions: Add black peppercorns, cloves, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and fennel seeds. Sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic. Add sliced onions and green chilies, and cook until the onions turn golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Cook tomatoes and spices: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and oil begins to separate from the masala.
6. Add beef and sear: Add the beef cubes, stirring well to coat them with the spice mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned on all sides.
7. Add water and pressure cook: Pour enough water to cover the beef (about 2 cups). Close the pressure cooker and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the beef is tender. (If using a pot, simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours, adding water as needed.)
8. Add thin coconut milk: Once the beef is tender, add the thin coconut milk and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
9. Add thick coconut milk and curry leaves: Stir in the thick coconut milk and curry leaves. Simmer gently for another 5-7 minutes. Do not boil vigorously after adding thick coconut milk to prevent curdling.
10. Adjust seasoning and garnish: Check salt and spice levels. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use fresh coconut milk, but canned works well too.

• Use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time, but slow cooking in a heavy pot develops deeper flavors.
• Adjust the number of green chilies and red chili powder to control the heat.
• For a richer taste, add a tablespoon of ghee just before serving.
• Try adding potatoes or carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
• If you want a spicier stew, crush some black peppercorns and sprinkle on top.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

This Kerala beef stew pairs beautifully with traditional South Indian breakfast or dinner options:

• Appam: Soft, lacy rice pancakes that soak up the stew’s rich gravy perfectly.
• Idiyappam: Steamed rice noodle nests that complement the creamy texture of the stew.
• Steamed rice: Simple and neutral, allowing the flavors of the stew to shine.
• Parotta: Flaky layered flatbread that adds a delicious contrast.
• With a side of sautéed greens or pickles for an authentic Kerala meal experience.

For more delicious and diverse recipe ideas, you might enjoy exploring these:

• Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping
• Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious
• Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious

Conclusion

Kerala beef stew is a true celebration of flavors from the spice-rich region of South India. Its tender meat, fragrant spices, and creamy coconut milk create a dish that’s both satisfying and deeply comforting.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this stew promises a taste experience that’s both authentic and timeless. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability, allowing you to customize it to your heat preference or add your favorite vegetables.

As you try this recipe, you’ll discover why it’s a staple in Kerala homes and loved by food enthusiasts worldwide. Don’t forget to pair it with appam or idiyappam to enjoy the full traditional experience.

For more flavorful recipes that bring a variety of tastes to your kitchen, be sure to explore other exciting dishes linked above. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Kerala beef stew!

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