Coconut Braised Beef

Introduction

Coconut Braised Beef delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites enriched by the deep, aromatic flavors of coconut milk and a harmonious blend of spices. Its warming, creamy sauce and fork-tender beef make it an unforgettable centerpiece for any dinner, ideal for either family comfort meals or impressing guests with bold, exotic notes.

Why Coconut Braised Beef Is a Must-Try

This dish stands out because the gentle braising process allows tough cuts of beef to absorb all the richness of coconut milk, ginger, garlic, and aromatics. When finished, the beef is succulent, the sauce dreamy and aromatic, and it’s equally delicious with rice, noodles, or bread. The flavors evoke comfort and festivity, blending sweet, savory, and umami elements for a completely satisfying meal.

Prep Work: Essential Chopping and Slicing

Properly dicing and chopping your mirepoix, aromatics, and garnishes streamline this recipe. With a tool like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper, you can effortlessly prep onions, carrots, and other vegetables for an even cook and beautifully textured sauce. Uniform pieces not only improve presentation but also ensure consistent flavor infusion during the braise.

Braising the Beef for Maximum Flavor

Braising is all about patience and low, slow cooking. Start by searing your beef until browned, using a reliable, heavy-bottomed skillet like the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet. This develops luscious caramelized flavors that infuse the coconut sauce as the dish simmers. Cooking the beef surrounded by coconut milk and spices makes each bite luxuriously rich.

Simmering on the Stovetop: Tips and Tools

After browning and combining all your ingredients, cover and simmer gently. Stir occasionally with a sturdy implement, like the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher, which is handy for gently breaking apart the beef as it softens. Monitor doneness using a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking to ensure your beef is perfectly cooked and ready to shred.

Serving Coconut Braised Beef for a Crowd

The beauty of this dish is in its versatility. Serve it atop fluffy steamed rice, noodle nests, or alongside crusty bread to soak up all the aromatic sauce. For meal prep or taking it on the go, store cooled portions in an airtight container like the Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5. Garnish with fresh herbs, sliced red chilies, and a squeeze of lime for a bright, restaurant-worthy finish.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 6 hearty servings. Each serving offers roughly 450–500 calories, dependent on beef cut and any additional sides. Rich in protein and a source of healthy fats from coconut milk, it’s an occasional indulgence that feels both comforting and nourishing.

Coconut Braised Beef at Its Finest (Recap)

Succulent beef, a coconut-infused sauce, and complex spice undertones create a dish that’s impressive in both flavor and ease. Coconut Braised Beef is more than a meal—it’s a guaranteed showstopper for cozy dinners or festive gatherings.

Instructions

1. Prep your vegetables: Dice onion, slice carrots, and mince garlic and ginger using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for consistency and speed.
2. Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet over medium-high and add oil. Sear beef cubes on all sides, working in batches if necessary, until deeply browned. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onion and carrots until softened (about 4 minutes). Add garlic, ginger, and chilies and cook another minute until aromatic.
5. Sprinkle in coriander, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Stir to toast spices for 1 minute.
6. Return beef to the pan. Pour in coconut milk and beef broth, then add soy sauce, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Stir everything until combined.
7. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for 2–2.5 hours, stirring occasionally with the Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher to help break apart beef as it tenderizes.
8. Once beef is fork-tender, taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in lime juice just before serving for brightness.
9. Serve over rice or bread, garnished with cilantro and green onions. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers for easy meal prep.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 2–2.5 hours

Total Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes