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Sri Lankan Beef Curry

Yields1 Serving

Source: Mangoes and Curry Leaves
Region: India
Rating: 10/10
Can substitute lamb for beef.

 1 lb boneless beef (such as round steaks or roast) or 1/2 pounds shor ribs or cross ribs
 1 tbsp vegetable oil
 10 fresh or frozen curry leaves
 1 green cayenne chile, finely chopped
 1 cup finely chopped onion
 1 tsp turmeric
 1 tsp salt
 ½ cup canned or fresh coconut milk
 1 tbsp tamarind pulp
 ¼ cup hot water
 3 cups water
Dry Spice Mixture
 1 tbsp raw white rice
 1 tbsp coriander seeds
 1 tsp cumin seeds
 1-inchpiece cinnamon or cassia stick
 6 cardamom seeds (from 1 to 2 green cardamom pods)
1

Cut the boneless beef into approximately 1/2-inch cubes. Or, if using ribs, cut them apart. Set aside.

2

In a small dry heavy skillet, roast the dry spice mixture over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it has a good aroma. Transfer to a spice/coffee grinder and grid to a powder, or grind with a mortar and a pestle. Set aside in a small bowl.

3

In a wide heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the curry leaves, green chile, onion, and turmeric and stir-fry for 3 minutes. Add the beef and salt and cook, stirring occasionally to expose all surfaces of the meat to the hot oil, for 5 minutes, or until the meat is browned.

4

Add the reserved dry spice mixture and the coconut milk and stir to coat the meat with the coconut milk. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5

Meanwhile, chop the tamarind pulp and soak it in the hot water for about 10 minutes. Press the mixture through a strainer or sieve placed over a bowl. Discard the pulp and combine the tamarind liquid with the 3 cups water.

6

Add the liquid to the pot and bring to a boil, then lower the heat and cook at a strong simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the flavors well blended.

7

Taste and adjus the seasoning, if you wish. serve hot.