Qeema (Ground Beef Curry)

When you’re craving something flavorful, comforting, and hearty, Qeema (also known as Ground Beef Curry) is the answer. It’s the kind of dish that fills the house with a rich, savory aroma that promises satisfaction with every bite. This one-pot wonder is not only delicious but also super simple to make. Packed with spices that create a perfect balance of warmth and heat, this curry is as comforting as it is tasty. Whether you’re having it with warm naan, steamed rice, or just by itself, you’re in for a treat!

Trust me, this Qeema is one you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love Qeema

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a weekend gathering with friends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.

Customizable: You can tweak the spice levels to your taste or add veggies for extra flavor and nutrition.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredients in Qeema (Ground Beef Curry)

Let’s break down the magic of this dish—it’s made with a few pantry staples, but it delivers a punch of flavor that’s hard to beat. Here’s what you need:

Ground Beef: The star of the show. Ground beef gives this curry its hearty base and absorbs all the flavors from the spices beautifully.

Onions: These form the aromatic base of the curry, becoming golden and sweet as they cook down.

Tomatoes: They add tang and depth to the curry, balancing out the richness of the beef.

Garlic and Ginger: These two are your flavor powerhouses—garlic brings depth, and ginger adds that zesty kick.

Spices: The heart of the curry. Ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala give this dish its warmth and complexity. They’ll make your kitchen smell incredible!

Green Chilies: Optional for heat, but they add a nice kick to the curry without being overpowering.

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the curry.

Salt: To season and bring all the flavors together.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large pot or pan over medium heat. Add a bit of oil to start cooking your ingredients.

Cook the Onions: Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re golden brown. This may take about 5–7 minutes, but it’s worth the wait because they create the foundation for the flavor.

Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for another minute until fragrant, and get ready for the magic to begin.

Add Ground Beef: Crumble the ground beef into the pot and cook it, breaking it apart with your spoon. Let it cook until it’s browned and no longer pink.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes along with the cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and a pinch of salt. Let the tomatoes soften and break down, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the beef evenly.

Cook to Perfection: Pour in a bit of water or stock to create a sauce, then cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure it’s cooking evenly and the flavors meld together. Add more water if the curry gets too dry.

Add Green Chilies and Cilantro: Once the beef is tender and the curry is thickened, add the green chilies (if using) and fresh cilantro. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes.

Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with naan, rice, or just enjoy it on its own!

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
(These values are approximate and can vary depending on the ingredients used.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Qeema (Ground Beef Curry)

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve it with warm naan or paratha for the ultimate curry experience.
• Pair it with steamed basmati rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
• A side of cool cucumber raita is perfect to balance out the heat.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder and green chilies to suit your taste.
• If you like a creamier curry, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
• Add potatoes or peas to the curry for extra texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip browning the onions—they’re key to building a deep, rich flavor.
• Make a double batch and freeze some for later; this curry freezes wonderfully!
• If the curry gets too thick, just add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
• This recipe also works great with ground chicken or lamb for different flavors.
• Garnish with extra cilantro for a burst of freshness before serving.
• You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for extra zing.
• Leftover Qeema tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

FAQ’s

1 What can I serve with Qeema?
Naan, paratha, basmati rice, or even a simple salad work beautifully alongside Qeema.

2 Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Add more green chilies or increase the chili powder to your liking.

3 Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well for a lighter version.

4 How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Qeema in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

5 Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Potatoes, peas, carrots, or spinach are great additions.

6 Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, canned tomatoes work perfectly if you’re in a pinch.

7 Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Qeema actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

8 How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer it longer without the lid to allow the sauce to reduce and thicken.

9 Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, just brown the beef and onions first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours.

10 Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Qeema is naturally gluten-free, but just double-check any condiments you’re using (like soy sauce) to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Conclusion

There you have it—Qeema, a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-make curry that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s one of those dishes that always hits the spot, whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or just want to try something new. With its rich spices and savory beef, Qeema is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Give it a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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