Prepare the Beef: Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized cubes. Choose a tender cut, like chuck roast, for the best results. Pat the beef dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear.
Brown the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the beef on all sides until it's nicely browned. This step builds flavor, so don't rush it!
Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent. The aroma from the garlic and ginger will start to fill your kitchen, and that’s when you know you’re on the right track.
Spice it Up: Add the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and beef with the spices. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their fragrance.
Add the Liquids: Stir in the coconut milk, beef broth, and tomato paste. Mix everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits carry lots of flavor and will infuse the curry with richness.
Simmer and Tenderize: Bring the curry to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour. The beef will become tender and soak up the spices. Stir occasionally and check for the consistency of the sauce—you want it thick but not too dry.
Season to Taste: Once the beef is tender, taste your curry and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you like a spicier kick, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes at this stage.
Serve: Once the curry is ready, serve it hot with steamed rice or naan bread. The curry sauce is perfect for soaking up with the bread or pairing with a fluffy bed of rice.