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Keema Curry

A comforting Indian ground beef curry with layered flavors that's ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for quick dinners or festive gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Indian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ground beef 80/20 for flavor; leaner for a healthier option
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee Ghee gives a nutty finish
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped Use red for sweetness
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced Or 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas Optional for color and sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons plain yogurt or coconut yogurt For creaminess and tang
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped For garnish
  • 1/2 lemon Juice Brightens flavors

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the oil or ghee in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring, until the onions are deeply golden and sweet — about 8 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Toast the spices for 20-30 seconds.
  5. Add the ground beef. Cook until no pink remains and a little fond forms on the pan, about 6-8 minutes.
  6. Mix in the tomatoes and a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
  7. Stir in the peas and yogurt. Simmer 2-3 more minutes to marry the flavors.
  8. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
  9. Finish with garam masala and fresh cilantro. Remove from heat and let rest a minute.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To freeze: cool completely and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently.