Kenyan Beef Curry

Kenyan Beef Curry

Kenyan Beef Curry is a rich, flavorful dish combining tender steak tips simmered in a spiced tomato-based sauce. This hearty curry is perfect for cozy meals and pairs wonderfully with rice or flatbreads.

Beef

Prep Time

15 min

Cook Time

90 min

Servings

6

Kenyan Beef Curry is a beloved dish that reflects the vibrant blend of spices and cooking techniques found in East African cuisine. Tender pieces of sirloin steak are gently simmered with warming spices like curry powder, paprika, and ginger, infusing the meat with delightful aromas and tastes. The use of fresh garlic and tomatoes adds depth and natural sweetness, while the cilantro and fresh chili garnish finish the dish with a burst of freshness and heat. This dish is often enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Kenya where curries are a common staple influenced by Indian and Arab traders. The slow simmering process ensures that the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the sauce thickens into a luxurious coating that complements every bite. Serve this Kenyan Beef Curry alongside steamed basmati rice or warm chapati to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs well with a crisp cucumber salad or sautéed greens, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to your table.

Ingredients

  • 4 cup Water
  • 2 lb Sirloin Steak tips
  • 4 Garlic Clove
  • 2 teaspoon Ground Ginger
  • 2 tblsp Oil
  • 2 medium Red Onions
  • 4 Tomato
  • 2 tblsp Paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 2 teaspoon Curry Powder
  • 4 tablespoon Tomato Puree
  • Dash Salt
  • 1 Chilli
  • Leaves Cilantro

Instructions

Begin by bringing 4 cups of water to a rolling boil in a sturdy Dutch oven or large soup pot. Add the sirloin steak tips, crushed garlic cloves, and ground ginger, stirring everything together. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and allow it to cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Don't worry if you notice any foamy scum forming on top; you can simply skim it off with a spoon or stir it back into the brew. Once the initial simmer is complete, remove the pot from heat and carefully drain the beef, reserving the flavorful cooking liquid to use later. Return the same pot to medium heat and pour in 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. When the oil shimmers and shows it’s hot, add the chopped red onions and sauté them, stirring now and then, until they turn soft and translucent—this usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Next, introduce the chopped tomatoes to the softened onions. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and meld nicely with the onions, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Add the drained beef back into this tomato and onion base, stirring well to coat the meat in the rich mixture. Let it cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to integrate the flavors. Now, it's time to add the key spices: sprinkle in the paprika, black pepper, curry powder, and the tomato puree, along with a dash of salt to suit your taste. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients evenly. Pour the reserved beef cooking water back into the pot, and add just enough additional water so the beef mixture is fully covered. Bring it all up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully. If you notice the curry starting to stick or dry out, add a splash more water to maintain a pleasant consistency—whether you prefer it thick or a bit soupy. When your Kenyan beef curry is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning as you prefer. For a vibrant finishing touch, garnish with freshly sliced chili and a handful of fragrant cilantro leaves. This final flourish adds a lovely burst of color and a hint of fresh heat to each serving. Tip: For even more flavor depth, marinate the beef in the garlic and ginger with a pinch of salt for an hour before cooking. Serve with fluffy steamed rice or warm flatbreads to soak up the luscious curry sauce.

Quick Info

Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
90 min
Total Time
105 min
Servings
6