Andhra-style Spicy Beef Curry

Ingredients

In this Andhra-style adaptation, the original Mexican Asado mazatleco is transformed into a spicy beef curry with a distinct Andhra flavor profile. The traditional Mexican spices are replaced with a blend of aromatic Andhra spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. The tangy tamarind is added to balance the heat and add a touch of sourness. The cooking technique is also modified to slow-cook the beef, allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. We alse have the original recipe for Asado mazatleco, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef, cut into cubes 500g (1.1 lb) beef, cut into cubes
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, pureed 3 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 cloves 3 cloves
• 3 cardamom pods 3 cardamom pods
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons oil
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat oil in a large pan or pressure cooker over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
5. 5.
   Add the beef cubes and cook until they are browned on all sides.
6. 6.
   Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the beef with the spices.
7. 7.
   If using a pressure cooker, add 1 cup of water and pressure cook for 20-25 minutes until the beef is tender. If using a pan, cover and simmer for 1-2 hours until the beef is tender, adding water as needed.
8. 8.
   Once the beef is tender, add the tamarind paste and simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or Andhra breads.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — Choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin or chuck for best results. Trim any excess fat before cutting into cubes.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a teaspoon of Andhra chili powder or use spicier green chilies.
• Adjust the amount of tamarind paste according to your taste preference for tanginess.
• Marinating the beef with the spices for a few hours before cooking can enhance the flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Andhra-style Spicy Beef Curry hot with steamed rice or traditional Andhra breads like roti or paratha. Accompany it with a cooling raita or yogurt-based side dish to balance the heat.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Spicy Beef Curry with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in a traditional Andhra-style copper or brass serving dish for an authentic touch.