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Beef Vindaloo

Beef Vindaloo is a rich and flavorful curry made with tender beef and warming spices.
The sauce combines vinegar, tomato paste, and aromatic seasonings.
Serve with basmati rice and naan for a complete meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian-Inspired

Ingredients
  

For the Beef

  • 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons neutral oil

For the Sauce

  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon ground mustard
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef stock

Optional for Serving

  • Cooked basmati rice
  • Warmed naan
  • Plain Greek yogurt

Instructions
 

  • Cut the beef chuck into 2-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.
  • Season with salt and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add oil and heat until shimmering.
  • Add the beef and brown on all sides for about 6 minutes.
  • Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the same skillet.
  • Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring often, until deeply caramelized.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, mustard, cayenne, ginger, and cinnamon.
  • Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add tomato paste and stir until combined.
  • Pour in apple cider vinegar and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
  • Cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Add beef stock and stir well.
  • Return the browned beef to the skillet.
  • Bring the Beef Vindaloo mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and cover.
  • Simmer for approximately 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Add a splash of beef stock if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Once the beef is tender and the sauce reaches your preferred consistency, taste and adjust seasoning.
  • If the vinegar flavor is stronger than desired, stir in ½ to 1 teaspoon brown sugar and simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
  • Serve hot over basmati rice with naan and Greek yogurt if desired.

Notes

  • Beef stew meat can be substituted for beef chuck.
  • Serve with cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • Extra stock may be added for a thinner sauce.
  • Fresh cilantro can be sprinkled on top before serving.