slow cooker beef curry massaman
This slow cooker beef curry massaman is a comforting dish made with tender beef, coconut milk, potatoes, and aromatic spices. A perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal bursting with rich, authentic Thai flavors.
8 Servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 2 medium brown onions sliced into thin wedges
- 2.2 lbs 1 kg gravy beef, diced
- ⅔ cup massaman curry paste
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken stock
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 3 medium potatoes chopped coarsely
- ½ cup roasted unsalted peanuts
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Cooked jasmine rice for serving
- 1 lime cut into wedges
- ⅓ cup fresh coriander chopped
Instructions
Prepare the Onions
- Heat half of the peanut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for approximately 10 minutes, or until softened and lightly browned. Transfer the cooked onions to a 4.5-liter slow cooker.
Brown the Beef
- Using the same skillet, increase the heat to high and add the remaining peanut oil. Sear the diced beef in batches, ensuring each piece develops a rich brown crust for enhanced flavor. Once all beef is browned, return it all to the skillet and add the massaman curry paste. Stir for 1 minute, allowing the paste to become fragrant and coat the beef thoroughly. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
Assemble the Curry Base
- Add the coconut milk, chicken stock, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, potatoes, and peanuts to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the beef and potatoes are well coated in the sauce.
Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours. The extended cooking time allows the beef to become exceptionally tender while the spices infuse the dish with depth and warmth.
Final Seasoning
- Once the cooking time is complete, stir in the brown sugar and fish sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve and Garnish
- Serve the curry over freshly steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
Notes
To make this slow cooker beef curry massaman gluten-free:
- Ensure the massaman curry paste is certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat-based thickeners.
- Use gluten-free chicken stock or make homemade stock to avoid hidden gluten.
- Fish sauce and other condiments should also be checked for gluten-containing additives.