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Easy Beef Vindaloo: A Rich, Tangy, and Spicy Indian Curry

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This Easy Beef Vindaloo is a rich, tangy, and spicy Indian curry featuring tender beef simmered in aromatic spices, vinegar, and chili peppers. Perfect for a cozy, high-protein dinner with bold flavors.

  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil or ghee
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt, divided
  • Fresh black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp coriander
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp cloves

Instructions

  1. Combine paprika, turmeric, cumin, coriander, cayenne, black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves to create vindaloo spice blend.
  2. Pat beef dry and season with 1/2 tsp salt and black pepper.
  3. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear beef in batches 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium; cook onion 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and ginger 1 minute.
  5. Add vindaloo spice blend and toast 1–2 minutes.
  6. Stir in tomatoes, vinegar, beef broth, brown sugar, and remaining salt. Return beef, bring to boil, then simmer covered 2–2.5 hours until beef is tender.
  7. Partially blend sauce with immersion blender for thicker consistency if desired.
  8. Adjust seasoning with salt or cayenne. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper to desired spice level (1–2 tsp).
  • White vinegar is essential for tangy flavor.
  • Sear beef in batches to deepen flavor.
  • If sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for last 30 minutes.
  • Optional: stir in 1/4 cup coconut milk or heavy cream for creamier sauce.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Simmer
  • Cuisine: Goan, Indian