African Beef Curry
This African Beef Curry is a popular dish with my family and friends. It's from my Aunt Linda, who was a missionary in Nigeria for 45 years. The stew is served on a bed of rice and sprinkled with toppings. I put the bowls of toppings on my large turntable, and everyone can take whatever they want. In addition to the coconut, peanuts and raisins, you could also top the stew with chopped cucumbers, pineapple tidbits or mandarin orange slices.
This African Beef Curry is a popular dish with my family and friends. It's from my Aunt Linda, who was a missionary in Nigeria for 45 years. The stew is served on a bed of rice and sprinkled with toppings. I put the bowls of toppings on my large turntable, and everyone can take whatever they want. In addition to the coconut, peanuts and raisins, you could also top the stew with chopped cucumbers, pineapple tidbits or mandarin orange slices.
- Carbohydrate 47.7434305662857 g
- Cholesterol 74.84274105 mg
- Fat 20.1027660729967 g
- Fiber 2.77891265645294 g
- Protein 25.9903509659863 g
- Saturated Fat 7.97564337438019 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (411g)
- Sodium 73.1029113789373 mg
- Sugar 44.9645179098328 g
- Trans Fat 2.65033851476078 g
- Calories 483 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large saucepan, combine the first seven ingredients.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours or until meat is tender.
- Serve with rice.
- Garnish with raisins, chopped peanuts and coconut if desired.
Cut beef stew meat into uniform half-inch cubes to ensure even cooking throughout the braise. Small pieces expose more surface area to the simmering liquid, releasing collagen that naturally thickens the tomato-based sauce without added starches. Cooking this stew requires patience because high heat tightens muscle fibers and creates a tough, dry texture. Maintain a low simmer with the lid on tightly to trap moisture and break down connective tissue completely.
Managing Texture and Toppings
Achieving tenderness takes between ninety and one hundred twenty minutes on the stovetop. Test a piece of beef by pressing it against the side of the saucepan with a spoon; it should yield instantly under slight pressure. Contrast is essential for this style of curry. Adding crunchy toppings like peanuts and shredded coconut provides textural relief against the soft braised beef and tender rice bed.
- Avoid boiling the meat aggressively, which causes the exterior to seize before the interior cooks.
- Do not skip the initial simmering phase, or the spices will retain a harsh, raw edge.
