Recipe: Beef or Lamb Masala

If you are a fan of rich and spicy Indian flavors, then this Beef or Lamb Masala recipe is perfect for you. Made with tender pieces of beef or lamb, this dish is packed with aromatic spices and a creamy tomato gravy that will satisfy your taste buds.

To start, gather all the necessary ingredients:

• 500g beef or lamb, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup yogurt
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, follow these steps to make the Beef or Lamb Masala:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onions until golden brown. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute.
2. Add the spice powders (cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili, and garam masala) to the pan and cook for a few seconds to release their flavors.
3. Next, add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
4. Now, add the beef or lamb pieces and season with salt. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides.
5. Reduce the heat and add the yogurt. Mix well to coat the meat with the yogurt.
6. Cover the pan and let the meat cook on low heat for about 1-2 hours, or until it is tender.
7. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

This Beef or Lamb Masala recipe is a perfect choice for a special dinner or when you want to impress your guests with authentic Indian flavors. Enjoy this delicious and aromatic dish!

Ingredients

• Beef or Lamb: You will need either beef or lamb as the main protein component of the dish. Choose lean cuts of meat to ensure tenderness.
• Spices: A combination of aromatic spices is essential to create the rich and flavorful masala. Common spices used include cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder.
• Onions: Finely chopped or sliced onions are a staple ingredient in the masala. They provide a sweet and savory base for the dish.
• Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger add a distinct flavor and aroma to the masala. Crushed or minced garlic and grated ginger are commonly used.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes are used to create a thick and tangy sauce for the masala. You can use fresh tomatoes or canned tomato puree.
• Yogurt: Yogurt is often added to the masala to enhance the creaminess and balance the flavors. It also helps to tenderize the meat.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves are commonly used as a garnish for the dish. They add a fresh and herbaceous flavor.

In addition to these main ingredients, you may also need other pantry staples such as oil for cooking, salt to taste, and water or broth to adjust the consistency of the masala. It is important to have all the ingredients prepared and ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat: Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef or lamb and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, mix together yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Add the meat to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.
3. Sauté the Onions and Spices: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until they become golden brown. Then, add cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, cloves, and bay leaves to the pan. Stir everything together to release the flavors.
4. Cook the Meat: Add the marinated meat to the pan and cook until it is browned on all sides. This will help seal in the flavors and ensure the meat is tender.
5. Add Tomatoes and Liquid: Once the meat is browned, add chopped tomatoes and a little water or beef broth to create a flavorful sauce. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about an hour, or until the meat is cooked through and tender.
6. Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add more salt, red chili powder, or garam masala if desired.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the meat is cooked, garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves. Serve the Beef or Lamb Masala hot with steamed rice or naan bread.

Follow these step-by-step instructions and you’ll have a flavorful and aromatic Beef or Lamb Masala dish ready to enjoy!

Tips and Variations

1. Choice of Meat:

While the traditional recipe calls for beef or lamb, you can experiment with different types of meat to suit your taste. Chicken, venison, or even tofu can be used as substitutes. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.

2. Spice Level:

The spice level in this dish can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a milder masala, reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit it altogether. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chili powder or add cayenne pepper.

3. Vegetarian Options:

If you want to make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can replace the meat with vegetables such as potatoes, cauliflower, or green peas. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are cooked through.

4. Fresh Ingredients:

Using fresh ingredients, such as ginger, garlic, and spices, will enhance the flavor of the dish. Consider grinding your own spices for a more intense taste. Freshly squeezed lemon juice can also be added to give the masala a tangy flavor.

5. Serving Suggestions:

This dish pairs well with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of raita or pickles to add a refreshing element to the meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal.