Easy beef karahi recipe

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If you’re looking for a dish bursting with bold spices, deep flavors, and tender, juicy beef, then this easy Beef Karahi recipe is perfect.

This classic Pakistani dish is known for its fragrant, tomato-based gravy and aromatic spices, all cooked perfectly in one. The combination of slow-cooked beef, vibrant peppers, and a luscious, creamy finish makes it a comforting yet exciting meal. Best of all, it pairs beautifully with my homemade sourdough naan, making every bite even more irresistible. Whether you’re new to South Asian cuisine or a longtime fan, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Karahi Recipe

• Packed with deep, robust flavors
• Uses simple pantry-friendly ingredients
• Perfect for family dinners or special occasions
• Can be made on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot
• Pairs perfectly with my homemade sourdough naan, or if you want a cheesy twist try our sourdough cheesy garlic naan

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My husband and I were vacationing in Toronto, Canada, and ate at a restaurant called “Karahi Boys.” This was one of the BEST foods we had ever eaten. The flavor was exploding in our mouths, and we couldn’t believe that we had never tried Pakistani cuisine before! Once we returned to the States, I craved this dish again, so of course, I had to recreate it! Traditionally, beef karahi isn’t made with bell peppers, but at the restaurant they added bell peppers to their recipe. Of course, you can skip the bell peppers altogether to make it more authentic 😉

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound beef cut into bite-sized pieces – The first trick to a good karahi is to get good-quality beef like chuck roast or steak cubes.
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Pinch of ground cloves
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 4 garlic cloves, pressed
• 1 tsp fresh ginger paste
• 15 oz crushed tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, julienned
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp beef tallow (for sautéing)
• green chilies (serrano peppers would work, too),
•  cilantro for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Karahi (Wok) or a Deep Skillet – Essential for achieving authentic texture and flavor.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula – This is used to stir and mix ingredients efficiently.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – To chop the beef, vegetables, and aromatics.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups – To ensure accurate spice and liquid measurements.
• Instant Pot (Optional) – An excellent alternative for faster cooking.
• Lid for the Pan – To trap moisture and help the beef cook evenly.

Easy Beef Karahi Recipe 

Step 1: Sauté the Beef

Start by heating beef tallow in a large pan or karahi. Once hot, add the beef and the spices: cumin, paprika, garam masala, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cloves. Sauté the meat over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes until browned and fragrant. This step helps to lock in the flavors and develop a rich, deep base for the dish.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Aromatics

Once the beef is well-seared, add the julienned bell pepper, sliced onion, pressed garlic, and fresh ginger paste. Continue sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic and ginger release their aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well, making sure the beef is coated in the rich tomato mixture. Allow this to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Beef Broth and Cook Until Tender

Now, pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook over low heat until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens about 60 minutes. If using an Instant Pot, pressure cook on high for 30 minutes, then allow for a natural release.

Step 5: Finish with Yogurt or Cream & Garnishes

Once the beef is tender, stir in 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt and 1/4 cup of heavy cream to add a luscious, creamy texture. For an extra boost of flavor, mix in additional freshly pressed garlic, chopped green chilies, juiliened fresh ginger, and a handful of fresh cilantro. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes before serving. Serve with homemade naan bread and a side of white rice. Enjoy this flavorful dish!

Adjusting the Spice Level

This Beef Karahi is meant to have a bold, spicy kick, but you can easily adjust the heat to your preference. For a milder version, reduce the amount of green chilies or omit them altogether. You can also decrease the paprika or use sweet paprika instead. If you love extra heat, add more chopped green chilies, red chili flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly to suit your spice tolerance.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Karahi pairs beautifully with buttery naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice. In our home, we love to enjoy it with my homemade sourdough naan, which perfectly complements the bold, spicy flavors of the dish. Serve with a side of cucumber raita and a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Karahi

• Use beef tallow for authentic richness and depth of flavor.
•  Don’t skip the sautéing steps—this builds the dish’s deep, robust taste.
•  Fresh garlic and chilies at the end enhance the dish’s aroma and heat. For extra spice, add red chili flakes or more green chilies.
•  Cook low and slow to allow the flavors to fully develop.
•  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
•  Alternative Ingredients – Swap beef for lamb or chicken, and use ghee instead of beef tallow for a different depth of flavor.
•  Additions for More Depth – Try incorporating dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a tangy finish.

This Beef Karahi recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen with simple steps and bold ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, its rich, comforting taste is sure to impress. Try it today, and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!

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