Scrumptious Beef and Butternut Squash Curry: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight

This Beef and Butternut Squash Curry combines the succulent flavors of tender beef with the sweet, nutty taste of butternut squash, all enveloped in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. This dish offers a perfect balance of warmth and spice, ideal for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cut into cubes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– 1 can (14 oz/400ml) coconut milk
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked rice, for serving

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
– Peel and cut the butternut squash into bite-sized cubes.
– Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.

2. Cook the Beef:
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics:
– In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the Spices:
– Stir in the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices.

5. Create the Curry Base:
– Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir to combine with the spices and onion mixture.
– Pour in the coconut milk and beef broth, stirring well to create a smooth sauce.

6. Combine and Simmer:
– Return the browned beef to the pot, along with the cubed butternut squash.
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the butternut squash is cooked through.

7. Season and Serve:
– Season the curry with salt and black pepper to taste.
– Serve the curry over a bed of cooked rice, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Beef and Butternut Squash Curry with its rich, comforting taste that’s perfect for any occasion.