Caribbean Beef Curry with Potatoes

Description:
This Caribbean Beef Curry with Potatoes is a hearty, flavorful dish infused with bold spices, tender beef, and creamy potatoes. It’s a comforting and satisfying one-pot meal, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

For the Curry:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons curry powder (Caribbean-style, if available)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 sprigs thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. In a large bowl, toss the beef with 1 tablespoon of curry powder, turmeric, and allspice. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated beef in batches, searing until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Build the Curry Base

1. In the same pot, add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and remaining 1 tablespoon of curry powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Curry

1. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
2. Add the thyme, bay leaf, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables

1. Stir in the potatoes and carrots. Cover and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the curry has thickened.
2. If using peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, as needed.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice, roti, or crusty bread.

Tips for Success:

• Tender Beef: For the most tender beef, simmer the curry low and slow to allow the flavors to meld.
• Custom Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper for heat, or omit it for a milder dish.
• Rich Flavor: For deeper flavor, toast the curry powder in the pot before adding the onions.

Serving Recommendations:

• Pair with jasmine rice or coconut rice for a complete meal.
• Serve with fried plantains or a side salad for a Caribbean-inspired feast.

Nutrition (Per Serving, ~6 servings):

Approximate values

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 320mg