After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my go-to recipe for Curried Ground Beef with Peas comes in. It’s a delightful dish that’s not only quick to whip up but also bursting with flavor. Imagine the warm spices mingling with tender beef and sweet peas, creating a comforting meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, this recipe is a perfect solution for busy weeknights or impressing friends at dinner. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Curried Ground Beef with Peas
This Curried Ground Beef with Peas is a game-changer for anyone who craves a delicious meal without the fuss. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. The rich, aromatic spices elevate the humble ground beef, while the peas add a pop of sweetness and color. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Curried Ground Beef with Peas
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a mouthwatering dish. For this Curried Ground Beef with Peas, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry staples that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: The star of the show, providing a hearty base. You can use lean beef for a healthier option.
Onion: A finely chopped medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor that complements the spices.
Fresh ginger: Grated ginger adds warmth and a hint of spice, enhancing the overall taste.
Curry powder: This is where the magic happens! A tablespoon of curry powder infuses the dish with rich, aromatic flavors.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that pairs perfectly with the curry.
Ground coriander: This spice contributes a citrusy undertone, balancing the dish beautifully.
Turmeric: Known for its vibrant color and health benefits, turmeric adds a subtle earthiness.
Cayenne pepper: Adjust this to your taste for a kick of heat that can elevate the dish.
Beef broth: A cup of beef broth helps to create a rich sauce that ties everything together.
Frozen peas: These little gems add sweetness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing.
Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing, it helps to cook the onions and beef evenly.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro is a lovely garnish that adds freshness and a burst of flavor.
Cooked rice or naan: Perfect for serving, these sides soak up the delicious sauce.
For those looking to switch things up, consider substituting ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also add diced potatoes or carrots for extra texture and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re tender.
Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Curried Ground Beef with Peas
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Curried Ground Beef with Peas is straightforward and fun to make. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Next, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook them for 1-2 minutes until they release their fragrant aroma. This combination adds a delightful depth to the dish, making your kitchen smell amazing!
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as you add it to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Incorporate Spices
Sprinkle the curry powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices, cooking for another 1-2 minutes. This step is where the magic happens, as the spices bloom and fill your kitchen with warmth.
Step 5: Add Beef Broth
Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich sauce that will coat the beef and peas.
Step 6: Mix in Peas
After the simmering time, add the frozen peas to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through. They’ll add a lovely sweetness and vibrant color to your dish.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Finally, serve your Curried Ground Beef with Peas hot over a bed of cooked rice or alongside warm naan. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds a flavorful base.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end.
Leftovers taste even better the next day, so make extra!
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works great, but any large pan will do.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up the beef and stirring.
Measuring cups: For accurate broth and ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, and ginger.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth for a hearty plant-based meal.
Extra Veggies: Add diced potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture. Just increase the cooking time to ensure they’re tender.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like garam masala or curry leaves for a unique flavor twist.
Coconut Cream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Rice: Serve over fluffy basmati or jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Naan: Warm naan bread is perfect for scooping up the curried beef.
Salad: A fresh cucumber and tomato salad adds a refreshing crunch.
Drink: Pair with a cold beer or a mango lassi for a delightful contrast.
FAQs about Curried Ground Beef with Peas
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the star here, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different flavor profile. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as leaner meats may cook faster.
Is this Curried Ground Beef with Peas spicy?
The spice level is adjustable! The cayenne pepper adds heat, but you can reduce or omit it if you prefer a milder dish. The curry powder itself varies in heat, so choose one that suits your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious when reheated.
What can I serve with Curried Ground Beef with Peas?
This dish pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or warm naan. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients used in this Curried Ground Beef with Peas are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any broth or additional ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free to keep it safe for those with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Curried Ground Beef with Peas is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The vibrant colors and aromatic spices transform a simple weeknight dinner into a delightful experience. Each bite is a reminder of how easy it is to bring warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it solo, this dish has a way of making any day feel special. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the flavors, and let this recipe become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire!
A delicious and easy recipe for Curried Ground Beef with Peas, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1 cup beef broth
1 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice or naan (for serving)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Sprinkle the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the meat with the spices and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot over cooked rice or with naan, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu and use vegetable broth.
Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra texture and nutrition; just increase the cooking time to ensure they are tender.
