Madras beef curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish originating from the southern part of India, specifically the region around Chennai (formerly known as Madras). It typically features tender pieces of beef simmered in a spicy and tangy curry sauce that is rich with coconut milk and fragrant with spices. Here’s a recipe to make Madras beef curry at home:

Madras Beef Curry

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 can (14 oz / 400ml) coconut milk
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 2 tablespoons Madras curry powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces in batches and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add the chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Stir in the tomato paste, Madras curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, paprika (if using), and chili powder. Cook the spices with the onions and tomatoes for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Simmer the Curry: Return the browned beef pieces to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and beef broth (or water). Stir well to combine everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Finish and Serve: Stir in the garam masala during the last few minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish the Madras beef curry with chopped cilantro leaves before serving.
6. Serve: Serve the Madras beef curry hot, accompanied by steamed rice, naan bread, or your favorite Indian bread. Enjoy the rich and aromatic flavors of this delicious southern Indian dish!

This Madras beef curry recipe is perfect for those who enjoy spicy and fragrant curries with tender beef that melts in your mouth. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.