Panang Beef Curry

If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, let me introduce you to my favorite, Panang Beef Curry. This delightful recipe features tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich coconut curry sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s one of those meals that feels special enough for a gathering but is simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. Every time I make it, my family gathers around the table, and I can hear the happy chatter as we dig in. It truly is comfort food at its finest!

What makes this dish even more special is how it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining friends, Panang Beef Curry never fails to impress. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create this mouthwatering dish.
• Family-friendly: The flavors are mild enough for kids yet satisfying for adults, making it a hit with everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: This curry tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Rich and flavorful: The combination of coconut milk and Thai red curry paste creates a deeply satisfying taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to gather everything you need for Panang Beef Curry.

For the Curry

• 2 pounds boneless short ribs trimmed, or a 3-pound chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 tablespoons Thai red curry paste, divided
• 1 14-ounce can unsweetened coconut milk
• 4 teaspoons fish sauce
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 Thai red Chile (optional), chopped (seeds removed or not depending on how hot you like it)
• 6 Kaffir lime leaves, middle vein removed and sliced very thin
• 1/3 cup unsalted dry-roasted peanuts, chopped fine

For the Rice

• 1 cup dry white rice (2 cups once cooked)

Variations

One of the best things about Panang Beef Curry is its versatility! Feel free to adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
• Adjust the heat: If you prefer more spice, add extra Thai red chiles or some chili flakes.
• Try different nuts: Substitute peanuts with cashews for a different texture and flavor.

How to Make Panang Beef Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Cut the beef into small half-inch to one-inch pieces. Place them into a medium to large saucepan, cover with about an inch of water, and bring to a boil. Cover it up, lower the heat to simmer, and let it cook slowly. If using boneless short ribs, aim for 60-75 minutes until they’re fall-apart tender; if using chuck roast, allow an additional 30-45 minutes. This step ensures your beef will be melt-in-your-mouth tender — trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While your beef simmers away blissfully, start cooking your rice according to package instructions. Timing is everything here; aim for both components to finish around the same time so everything is warm when served.

Step 3: Sauté the Curry Paste

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil until shimmering. Then add 2 tablespoons of Thai red curry paste. Sauté this mixture for about 5-8 minutes until it turns dark red—almost brown. This step intensifies the flavor of your curry and makes every bite unforgettable!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Next up! Add in your coconut milk along with fish sauce and sugar—stirring well. If you fancy a touch of heat from that Thai chile we discussed earlier, toss that in too! Now mix in two more tablespoons of curry paste along with your cooked beef. Give it all a good stir to combine those beautiful flavors.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a rapid simmer while stirring occasionally. Let this cook until your sauce thickens and reduces by half—about 12-15 minutes should do it. You’ll notice oil starting to appear on top; that’s exactly what we want as it signifies richness!

Step 6: Add Lime Leaves

It’s time for those fragrant Kaffir lime leaves! Add them into the curry and let simmer for another minute or two until their aroma fills your kitchen—heavenly!

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Transfer your delicious Panang Beef Curry to a serving bowl or platter and sprinkle with chopped peanuts along with some extra finely sliced lime leaves if desired. Serve alongside fluffy white rice for soaking up all that incredible sauce!

Now sit back and enjoy every wonderful bite of this comforting meal with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Panang Beef Curry

Making Panang Beef Curry can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the flavor of your curry. Opt for fresh Kaffir lime leaves and high-quality Thai red curry paste to achieve that authentic taste.
• Mind the heat: Adjust the amount of Thai red chile according to your spice tolerance. If you’re unsure, start with less and add more later; you can always increase the heat but not reduce it!
• Patience is key: Allowing the sauce to simmer until it thickens is crucial. This process deepens the flavors and creates that rich, creamy texture that makes Panang Beef Curry irresistible.
• Prep ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the beef and curry sauce a day in advance. Letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when reheated.
• Experiment with proteins: While this recipe uses beef, feel free to substitute with chicken or tofu for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

How to Serve Panang Beef Curry

Serving Panang Beef Curry is all about creating an inviting presentation that highlights its beautiful colors and rich textures. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that perfectly complements the richness of the curry.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty kick right before they dig in.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: The fluffy texture of jasmine rice acts as a perfect canvas for soaking up the delicious curry sauce.
• Stir-fried vegetables: Lightly sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas add crunch and freshness that balance out the creamy richness of the curry.
• Cucumber salad: A simple salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dish.
• Mango sticky rice: For those who want something sweet, this dessert provides a delightful finish with its creamy coconut milk and sweet mango slices.

Now you have everything you need to create an unforgettable meal! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this comforting Panang Beef Curry!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Panang Beef Curry is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop even more. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover curry in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the curry to cool completely before sealing for storage.

Freezing

• Portion the curry into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To maintain quality, try to remove as much air as possible from bags.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen curry overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about making Panang Beef Curry.

What can I serve with Panang Beef Curry?

Panang Beef Curry pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or jasmine rice. You could also serve it alongside fresh vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

How spicy is Panang Beef Curry?

The spice level of Panang Beef Curry can vary depending on how much Thai red chile you add. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with a small amount or omit it altogether!

Can I make Panang Beef Curry in advance?

Absolutely! Making Panang Beef Curry ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it properly and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this delicious Panang Beef Curry! Its rich and aromatic flavors are sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy every moment of cooking and savoring this comforting dish. Happy cooking!