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EASY Beef Vindaloo Recipe

Tender beef simmered in a rich, spicy vindaloo sauce.
Prep Time 19 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 them in a large bowl.
  • Season with salt and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
  • Heat the oil in a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
  • 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 the onion for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until deeply caramelized.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes.
  • Stir in the garam masala, cumin, paprika, turmeric, mustard, cayenne pepper, ginger, and cinnamon.
  • Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Add the tomato paste and stir until fully combined.
  • Pour in the apple cider vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Cook for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring constantly.
  • Add the beef stock and stir well.
  • Return the beef to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 60 minutes.
  • Stir occasionally and add additional stock if the sauce becomes too thick.
  • Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • If the vinegar flavor is too pronounced, add ½ to 1 teaspoon brown sugar and simmer for another few minutes.
  • Serve the Beef Vindaloo hot over basmati rice with naan and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Notes

  • Substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt if desired.
  • Serve alongside cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • Add diced potatoes during simmering for a heartier meal.
  • Fresh cilantro can be used as a garnish before serving.
  • The sauce can be adjusted with extra stock for a thinner consistency.