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beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe

Beef Massaman Curry Slow Cooker Recipe

Massaman Curry is one of Thailand’s most beloved dishes and is famous for its unique blend of Thai and Middle Eastern influences. Unlike many Thai curries, Massaman curry features warming spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves alongside traditional ingredients like coconut milk and curry paste.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Thailand
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Curry
  • 2 pounds 900g beef chuck, cut into large cubes
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup carrots sliced
  • 3 tablespoons Massaman curry paste
  • 1 can 14 ounces / 400ml coconut milk
  • 1 cup beef stock
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2 bay leaves
  • ½ cup roasted peanuts
For Serving
  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Chopped peanuts

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

Step 1: Brown the Beef
  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides for extra flavor and color. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker once finished.
    beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe steps (1)
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
  1. Add the sliced onion to the same skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the Massaman curry paste and cook briefly to release its aroma and deepen the flavor before transferring everything to the slow cooker.
    beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe steps (6)
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
  1. Place the potatoes and carrots into the slow cooker. Pour in the coconut milk, beef stock, fish sauce, brown sugar, and tamarind paste, then add the cinnamon stick and bay leaves. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
    beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe steps (5)
Step 4: Slow Cook the Curry
  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours. During this time, the beef will become tender and the curry sauce will develop a rich and complex flavor.
    beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe steps (4)
Step 5: Add the Peanuts
  1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the roasted peanuts. This allows them to soften slightly while still maintaining some texture and adding their signature nutty flavor.
    beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe steps (3)
Step 6: Finish and Serve
  1. Remove the cinnamon stick and bay leaves before serving. Spoon the curry over steamed jasmine rice and garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and lime wedges for a fresh finishing touch.
    beef massaman curry slow cooker recipe steps (2)

Video

Notes

  • Use beef chuck or stewing beef for the most tender results.
  • Browning the beef before slow cooking adds extra depth of flavor.
  • Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy curry sauce.
  • Cook on LOW whenever possible for the most tender beef.
  • Taste the curry before serving and adjust sweetness or saltiness as needed.
  • Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the finished dish.
  • Let the curry rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
  • Prepare the curry a day ahead, as the flavor becomes even better the next day.