Keema Curry

Delicious Keema Curry: Indian Ground Beef Curry in 30 Minutes

When I first discovered the joy of making keema curry, it was purely by accident. I was rummaging through my pantry one rainy afternoon and found a pack of ground beef and a few spices lingering at the back. As the smell of sizzling onions and spices filled my kitchen, I was transported to the bustling streets of India, where rich aromas waft from every corner. The sheer comfort of a home-cooked meal soon became a love language in my family, and this keema curry recipe became a staple. What makes it special to me is not only the rich flavor but also the way it brings everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter over delicious food.

What Makes This Recipe Special

So why should you try this recipe? Keema curry is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for gathering friends and family. Packed with spices that awaken your senses and lean ground beef that fills your belly, it balances flavor and nutrition beautifully. You’ll love how it comes together quickly and how versatile it is comforting with rice, delightful in wraps, and even perfect as a filling for stuffed vegetables.

What You’ll Need

For the Curry:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped (adjust according to spice preference)

For the Spices:

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt, to taste

For the Tomatoes:

• 1 can (14 oz) chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for a richer taste)

For Garnishing:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Note: You can substitute ground beef with turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version and adjust the spices to fit your taste!

How to make Delicious Keema Curry: Indian Ground Beef Curry in 30 Minutes

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
2. Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. This should take around 5-7 minutes, giving the curry a sweet base.
3. Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the aromatics to meld.
4. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes, ensuring it’s well-cooked through.
5. Spice It Up: Sprinkle in the coriander powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well until the beef is coated with the spices, approximately 2 minutes.
6. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes and add tomato paste. Mix thoroughly and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing all flavors to blend. If it seems too thick, you can add a splash of water.
7. Finish with Cilantro: Once cooked, add chopped cilantro for freshness and give it a final stir.
8. Serve: Transfer your delicious keema curry to a serving bowl. Serve hot with rice, naan, or as a filling for wraps!

Tips & Recipe Variations

• For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or coconut milk towards the end for creaminess.
• Cooling the Heat: If you are sensitive to spice, use fewer green chilies or remove the seeds.
• Make it Vegetarian: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of ground beef.
• Make Ahead: This curry can be made a day in advance. Just reheat gently on the stove.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a bit of water to keep it from drying out.

How to Enjoy This Dish

Keema curry is incredibly versatile; it pairs wonderfully with:

• Basmati Rice: Fluffy, fragrant Indian rice is perfect to soak up the curry.
• Naan or Roti: Freshly baked flatbreads can help scoop every flavorful bite.
• Side Salad: A cooling cucumber or beet salad can balance the spices nicely.
• Beverages: A chilled lassi or a refreshing mint tea complements the spices perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Absolutely! Cooks well when made a day before and stored in the refrigerator.
• Can I freeze the leftovers?
• Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• What can I use instead of coconut milk?
• You can use yogurt or cream, or simply omit if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
• Make sure to let it simmer uncovered for a bit to reduce excess liquid if needed.
• Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
• Yes! Just substitute the ground beef with lentils or another plant-based option, and skip dairy.

Conclusion

Making this delicious keema curry is not just about cooking; it’s about creating an experience filled with love, warmth, and togetherness. Each bite tells a story, and the laughter shared over dinner is what truly makes it special. I hope you give it a try, and I’d love to hear your thoughts or any personal tweaks you make to the dish. Happy cooking!

“This keema curry is my new favorite! So easy to make and packed with flavor! My entire family went back for seconds.” – Sarah M.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Sam

Latest posts by Sam (see all)

• Crab Macaroni and Cheese – Ultra Creamy Seafood Mac & Cheese Recipe - December 13, 2025
• Flavorful Indian Potato Masala - December 11, 2025
• Juicy Roasted Chicken with Asparagus and Green Olives - December 11, 2025