Beef korma

SERVES 6 TIME 3 - 4 hours LEVEL Medium

Some things in life are better remaining the same; others – like a korma – evolve, shift and change, but what remains are the satisfactory and sensual flavours.

Grass-fed beef: rich in protein, iron and omega-3 fats.

Natural yogurt: gut-health promoting bacteria, vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, A and E

Sweet potatoes: vitamins A and C, B3, B5, B6, potassium and magnesium

INGREDIENTS

4 tbsp cooking olive oil

2 tbsp thick and creamy mayonnaise 1.5kg grass-fed/organic beef, cut into 3cm pieces

3 medium onions finely chopped

2 cups cooked sweet potatoes cut into small cubes

1 large aubergine, thinly sliced

1 punnet mushrooms, sliced or quartered

500g natural yoghurt

½ cup roasted cashews (optional)

For the masala:

4 garlic cloves peeled and ½ finely chopped

2 tbsp crushed ginger

1 small tin/½ big tin tomato puree

½ tsp fine red chili powder (or more, as you wish)

½ tsp turmeric powder

½ fine cumin powder

1 tsp dry coriander powder

1 tsp cardamom powder

1 tsp fine black pepper

1 tsp salt

¼ cup fresh coriander to garnish

METHOD:

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, on medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear and seal the beef pieces on each side until slightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set to rest.

2. Add the rest of the oil, then the onions and braise until golden.

3. Add the ginger, garlic, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander and the cardamom powder. Mix well and heat for 2-3 min, then add the tomato puree and stir well.

4. Add 1 cup boiling water and beef, making sure to coat each piece in the spice mix. Bring to the boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Simmer covered for 2-3 hours or until beef is super tender.

5. Add the aubergine and mushrooms. Mix and allow to absorb all the flavours, replace the lid and allow to cook for 5 min.

6. Add pre-cooked sweet potatoes, yogurt and mayonnaise.

7. Replace the lid, turn the stove to low and allow the curry to simmer for 10 min.

7. Take off the heat, sprinkle the fresh coriander over the top.

8. Serve the tender beef korma on a bed of basmati rice or your choice of naan or bread.