When the chilly evenings roll in, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty meal simmering away in my kitchen. The rich aroma of Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms wafting through the air is an invitation to indulge, setting a perfect scene for cozy gatherings or a restful night in. This dish, with its tender beef and a sauce that balances the creaminess of coconut milk with vibrant flavors, has quickly become a favorite in my home.
With just a handful of aromatic ingredients like spicy serrano peppers and fragrant ginger, you’ll be transported directly to the heart of a bustling Southeast Asian kitchen. Not only is it an incredible way to enjoy home-cooked flavors, but the ease of preparation and the ability to let it braise for hours means you can focus on enjoying time with loved ones while it does all the work for you. Trust me, this will become your go-to for turning ordinary nights into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Why is Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms a must-try?
Delight in the rich, comforting flavors of this dish that blend perfectly with tender, braised beef. Simplicity meets elegance as you let it simmer, freeing you to savor that quality time. Aromatic herbs and spices like lemongrass and ginger transform everyday ingredients into a gourmet meal. Versatile enough for family dinners or intimate gatherings, this recipe guarantees to impress guests and loved ones alike. For more delightful flavor tips, don’t miss checking out how to infuse lemongrass into your cooking.
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Ingredients
• Everything you need for a savory delight!
For the Beef
- Beef chuck – ideal for slow braising and develops rich flavor and tenderness.
- Kosher salt – enhances the beef’s natural flavor; adjust to taste.
- Freshly ground black pepper – adds a warm, spicy kick to the dish.
For the Cooking Base
- Neutral oil – use avocado or grapeseed oil for high smoke point and flavor.
- Serrano peppers – introduce heat; feel free to adjust based on your spice preference.
- Minced fresh ginger – adds a zesty freshness that complements the coconut milk.
- Garlic cloves – infuse the dish with fragrant undertones essential in many curries.
- Lemongrass stalk – brings citrusy notes that elevate the entire dish; crush lightly for potency.
- Makrut lime leaves – their aromatic essence enhances the dish’s Southeast Asian flair.
For the Sauce
- Red curry paste – the heart of the flavor profile; don’t underestimate its boldness!
- Ground turmeric – not only adds color but also warm, earthy undertones.
- Full-fat coconut milk – contributes creaminess and balances the spices.
- Water – ensures the curry has the right consistency for braising.
- Palm sugar (or light brown sugar) – adds sweetness that balances the heat from the peppers.
- Fish sauce – a must for depth and umami flavor; don’t skip it!
For the Vegetables
- Large yellow onion – caramelizes beautifully, adding sweetness as it cooks.
- Carrots – provide sweetness and a lovely textural contrast.
- Mushrooms – shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms work perfectly for texture and richness.
For Serving
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice – the perfect canvas for your curry.
- Fresh cilantro leaves – add a burst of freshness when garnishing.
- Lime wedges – a squeeze enhances flavor, making every bite brighter.
- Chili oil or chili flakes – perfect for those who crave an extra kick.
This Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms is not just a meal; it’s a loving embrace after a long day, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
How to Make Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring a consistent cooking temperature throughout the braising process.
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Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. This helps achieve that beautiful sear on the meat.
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Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing each side for about 2–3 minutes until browned. Golden edges enhance the flavor!
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Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside. This will allow you to build layers of flavor with the next ingredients in the same pot.
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Lower the heat to medium. In the same pot, add the serrano peppers, ginger, garlic, lemongrass, lime leaves, curry paste, and turmeric. Stir for 2–3 minutes, or until fragrant and aromatic.
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Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes, allowing them to release moisture and start to brown beautifully, adding depth to your dish.
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Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and water, stirring to dissolve the curry paste completely, creating a luscious sauce.
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Add the palm sugar and fish sauce, stirring until the sugar fully melts. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed.
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Return the seared beef and any juices back to the pot. Add the chopped onion and carrots, gently stirring everything together for a well-mixed experience.
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Cover the pot with a lid and carefully transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and mouthwatering.
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Remove the pot from the oven and discard the lemongrass pieces and lime leaves. This will ensure a smooth texture in your curry.
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Let the curry rest, covered, for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve the hearty beef, mushrooms, and sauce over steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and a drizzle of chili oil or sprinkle of chili flakes for an extra kick.
Optional: Add crushed peanuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms?
Cozy up and complete your meal with delightful pairings that elevate this hearty dish into a feast of flavors and textures.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the rich curry sauce, providing a comforting balance to each bite.
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Crispy Fried Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and filled with vibrant veggies, these add a delightful crunch against the tender beef.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and tangy, a simple cucumber salad with lime and cilantro cuts through the richness of the curry, brightening your palate.
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Roasted Cauliflower: Nutty and caramelized, roasted cauliflower offers a tasty, nutritious side that complements the dish’s creamy base.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this classic Thai treat combines sweet mango with sticky rice, making a perfect sweet finish to your savory meal.
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Iced Thai Tea: This sweet, creamy drink helps balance heat in the curry, bringing a refreshing touch to your dining experience.
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Chili Garlic Noodles: The spicy noodles introduce a playful kick, enhancing the overall dining experience with a twist that’s simply irresistible!
How to Store and Freeze Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Freezer: This delicious curry can be frozen for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers; ensure they’re sealed well to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Rewarm over low heat on the stove, stirring frequently, until heated through. Enjoy the vibrant flavors again!
Expert Tips for Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms
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Searing Technique: Ensure the beef is dry before seasoning; this helps achieve a golden crust during searing, enhancing flavor.
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Layering Flavors: Don’t rush the process; allow the aromatics like ginger and garlic to cook until fragrant. This step builds a rich base for your dish.
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Cooking Time: Braise on the lower end of the time range if you’re short on time, but allow the full 3 hours for ultimate tenderness and flavor depth.
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Adjusting Spice: Feel free to modify the number of serrano peppers based on your spice tolerance. Taste as you go to achieve your desired heat level.
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Resting Period: Allow the curry to rest after cooking; this step melds the flavors and ensures a more cohesive dish when serving.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair your Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Jasmine or Basmati rice. A squeeze of lime immediately before eating elevates the entire dish.
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these delightful twists and swaps! Your taste buds will thank you.
- Spicy Kick: Add more serrano peppers or even a minced jalapeño for an extra layer of heat. The more spice, the more character!
- Coconut-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond milk for a lighter option; just add a bit more seasoning for flavor depth.
- Vegetarian Twist: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of beef, combining with the same rich sauce for a hearty vegan delight.
- Sweet & Tangy: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the braise for a balancing sweetness and tropical twist. Just toss them in during the last 30 minutes!
- Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh basil or mint leaves before serving for a burst of freshness that brightens the dish.
- Nutty Flavor: Stir in toasted cashews or peanuts before serving to create a wonderful crunch and nutty aroma in each bite.
- Sour Creamy: Top each serving with a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream for a creamy contrast to the rich curry. It adds a refreshing zing!
- Alternate Protein: Swap beef for lamb for a unique flavor profile, allowing the spices to mingle beautifully with the meat’s richness.
Make Ahead Options
These Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the beef and all the aromatic ingredients (including the chopped vegetables, ginger, garlic, and lemongrass) up to 24 hours in advance. Store everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the instructions starting from searing the beef, and the flavor will be just as delicious! For the best results, avoid adding the coconut milk until you’re ready to braise, as this keeps the sauce creamy and luscious. Trust me, you’ll love having this comforting meal ready to go with minimal effort on those busy nights!
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best lemongrass?
Absolutely! Look for fresh lemongrass stalks that are firm and pale green at the base. Avoid those with dark spots or a dried appearance, as they may not have the flavor you desire. The bottom bulb is usually the most aromatic.
How long can I store leftovers of Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms?
Very! You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist and delicious.
Can I freeze Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the curry into freezer-safe containers and ensure they are sealed tightly. This way, it’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat over low heat for the best texture and flavor.
How can I troubleshoot if my beef isn’t tender after braising?
If your beef isn’t tender after the recommended cooking time, it might be due to not enough time spent braising. For the best results, braise for at least 2½ to 3 hours. If needed, allow it to cook longer, checking for tenderness every 30 minutes. The meat should shred easily with a fork when it’s perfectly cooked.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
While Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms contains fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a vegan option if needed. Just make sure to adjust salt levels accordingly. Additionally, for those allergic to coconut, try using almond milk for a lighter version, though it may change the flavor profile slightly.
Is this dish safe for my pets to eat?
This dish is not suitable for pets. Certain ingredients, like garlic and onions, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep your pets in mind and share only pet-friendly treats with them!
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms: A Comfort Classic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing each side for about 2–3 minutes until browned.
- Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. In the same pot, add the serrano peppers, ginger, garlic, lemongrass, lime leaves, curry paste, and turmeric. Stir for 2–3 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes.
- Pour in the full-fat coconut milk and water, stirring to dissolve the curry paste.
- Add the palm sugar and fish sauce, stirring until the sugar fully melts.
- Return the seared beef and any juices back to the pot. Add the chopped onion and carrots.
- Cover the pot with a lid and carefully transfer it to your preheated oven. Braise for 2½ to 3 hours.
- Remove the pot from the oven and discard the lemongrass and lime leaves.
- Let the curry rest, covered, for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve the beef, mushrooms, and sauce over steamed rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime juice.