If you’ve been searching for a dish that perfectly marries bold spices with comforting textures, the Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe is your next kitchen triumph. This vibrant, fragrant curry features tender ground beef simmered with an exquisite blend of traditional Indian spices, creating a rich, layered flavor profile that warms your soul. The refreshing mint yogurt adds a cool, creamy contrast that balances the subtle heat and complexity of the curry, making every bite utterly irresistible. It’s a straightforward yet deeply satisfying meal that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is essential for creating an authentic Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role, from the warmth of the garam masala to the fresh zing of mint, combining to build a dish bursting with taste, texture, and color.
- 3 tbsp vegetable or canola oil: A neutral oil perfect for sautéing spices without overpowering flavors.
- 4 tsp finely minced ginger: Adds bright, zesty notes to brighten the dish.
- 5 large garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the oil with a fragrant base that’s rich and warming.
- 1 large finely diced onion: Provides sweetness and body to the curry’s foundation.
- 500g (1 lb) beef mince (ground beef): The star protein, tender and quick to absorb spices.
- 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper: Gives the curry a subtle heat—adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1 1/4 tsp garam masala: The quintessential Indian spice mix that brings warmth and complexity.
- 1 1/4 tsp cumin powder: Earthy tones that deepen the curry’s flavor profile.
- 1 1/4 tsp coriander powder: Adds citrusy undertones to brighten the beef.
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder: Provides a lovely golden color and mild bitterness.
- 1 cup water: To keep the curried beef moist while letting flavors meld beautifully.
- 1 green cayenne pepper, deseeded and sliced: Fresh chili for vibrant heat and texture.
- Cilantro/coriander leaves: Adds freshness and a pop of green garnish.
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt: The creamy base for the cooling mint yogurt topping.
- 1/2 cup lightly packed mint leaves: The star ingredient that refreshes and balances the curry.
- 1/4 tsp cooking salt: To season the mint yogurt just right.
How to Make Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics until Golden
Start by heating your oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the freshly minced ginger and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until they turn golden and emit that irresistible aroma. Be careful not to let them burn, as that would add bitterness. Next, throw in your finely diced onions and cook for another minute until they just start to turn translucent—this sweetness will add depth to your curry’s base.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Bloom the Spices
Now it’s time for the beef mince. Add it to your pan and break it up as it cooks. You want to see all the pink turn to a light brown, which only takes a few minutes. Once browned, mix in the salt, cayenne, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric powders—all your layered spices that bring this dish to life. Cook everything together for 2 more minutes to let those beautiful aromas bloom.
Step 3: Simmer with Water
Pour in a cup of water and give the curry a good stir to combine. Cover your pan with a lid or a baking tray to trap the steam, then reduce the heat to medium. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the beef to soak up the spices as most of the water evaporates. This step is where the magic really happens, thickening the curry into a luscious, flavorful texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Mint Yogurt
While your curry simmers, blend together the plain yogurt with fresh mint leaves and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. This mint yogurt is the refreshing counterpoint to the rich, spiced beef, adding a tangy coolness that elevates every mouthful.
Step 5: Add Final Touches and Serve
Once your curried beef is perfectly thick and fragrant, stir in the thinly sliced green cayenne pepper for a fresh pop of color and mild heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a generous spoonful of mint yogurt on the side. Serve your Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe over basmati or plain white rice, with naan or flatbreads to scoop up every bit of that delicious sauce.
How to Serve Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro and extra slices of chili pepper not only brighten the color but also add zesty bursts of flavor. A dollop of mint yogurt on top provides a creamy contrast that cools the palate and balances the spice beautifully. These simple garnishes make the dish feel festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
This curried beef pairs wonderfully with aromatic basmati rice or fluffy plain rice to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. For bread lovers, warm naan or soft flatbreads are perfect companions. If you’re short on time, frozen roti is a fantastic shortcut without sacrificing authenticity or taste.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-style meal, serve the Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe in a large shallow bowl surrounded by small dishes of rice, yogurt, and chopped fresh vegetables like cucumbers or tomatoes. Alternatively, turn it into an indulgent wrap with warm flatbreads, fresh mint yogurt, and crunchy salad for an on-the-go treat that’s vibrant and flavorful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can refrigerate any leftover Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal even tastier. Just keep the mint yogurt separate until serving to maintain its fresh brightness.
Freezing
This curried beef freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Make sure to prepare fresh mint yogurt when serving, as freezing alters its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water if it looks too thick. Avoid microwaving at high power for a long time to keep the beef moist and tender. Serve immediately with freshly made mint yogurt for the best results.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for making Qeema?
Ground beef (mince) with a bit of fat content works best to keep the curried beef moist and flavorful. You can use lean or regular mince depending on your preference, but some fat enhances richness.
Can I make the mint yogurt ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare your mint yogurt a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld, then keep it chilled. Just stir before serving to refresh it.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level is adjustable. Using cayenne pepper gives a mild to moderate kick, but you can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder curry. The fresh mint yogurt also helps balance any heat.
Can I substitute beef with another protein?
Absolutely! You can swap beef for ground lamb, chicken mince, or even plant-based mince alternatives for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What’s the best rice to serve with this curry?
Basmati rice is ideal because of its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture, which complements the spicy, saucy beef perfectly. Plain white rice also works well if basmati isn’t available.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a truly satisfying curry that’s quick to make yet bursting with authentic Indian flavors, this Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe should be your go-to. Its comforting spices, tender meat, and refreshing mint yogurt topping create a harmony of tastes that will have you coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, this is one recipe you’ll want to share with everyone you care about.
Print
Qeema Indian Curried Beef with Mint Yogurt Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Description
Qeema Indian Curried Beef is a flavorful and aromatic Indian dish made with ground beef, infused with a blend of traditional spices like garam masala, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cooked in a skillet with ginger, garlic, and onions, this dish is simmered to perfection and served with refreshing mint yogurt and basmati rice or flatbreads. It’s a quick and hearty meal ideal for weeknights, offering a perfect balance of spice and creaminess.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tbsp vegetable or canola oil (or other neutral oil)
- 4 tsp ginger, finely minced
- 5 large garlic cloves, minced (about 4 tsp)
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 500g / 1 lb beef mince (ground beef)
- 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or chili powder, omit if not spicy)
- 1 1/4 tsp garam masala
- 1 1/4 tsp cumin powder
- 1 1/4 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 cup water
- 1 green cayenne pepper, deseeded and finely sliced
- Cilantro/coriander leaves for garnish
Mint Yogurt
- 3/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup lightly packed mint leaves
- 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until golden—be careful not to burn them! Then add the diced onion and cook for 1 minute until it starts turning translucent.
- Cook Beef and Spices: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up as it cooks and continue until the beef changes color from pink to light brown. Add the salt, cayenne pepper, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and the green cayenne pepper slices. Cook everything together for 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and develop flavor.
- Simmer: Pour in 1 cup of water and stir well to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid or a baking tray, reduce the heat to medium, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. During this time, most of the water should evaporate, and the flavors will intensify.
- Prepare Mint Yogurt: While the beef simmers, blend or finely chop the mint leaves and mix them into the plain yogurt with 1/4 tsp salt. This will provide a cooling complement to the spicy beef dish.
- Serve: Once the beef curry is ready, serve it hot over basmati or plain white rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro/coriander leaves and extra sliced green chili if desired. Accompany the dish with the prepared mint yogurt and optionally serve with naan, flatbreads, or frozen roti for a complete meal.
Notes
- Note 1: Garam masala is a blend of ground spices common in Indian cooking, typically including cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and more. Using fresh or good-quality garam masala enhances the flavor notably.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper or substitute with paprika for color without the heat.
- Frozen roti or store-bought naan can be used for a quick and convenient bread option to serve alongside.
- This dish is easily adaptable to different ground meats, but beef is traditional for Qeema.
