There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish that marries bold spices with wholesome ingredients, creating a comforting burst of flavor in every bite. Enter Beef Keema with Peas-a vibrant, soulful recipe that transcends ordinary ground beef dishes. Rooted in rich culinary traditions yet wonderfully adaptable to modern kitchens, this recipe invites you on a sensory journey where tender minced beef simmers alongside peas and aromatic spices, crafting a symphony of taste and texture. Whether you’re a seasoned food enthusiast or a curious home cook, savoring this flavorful masterpiece will not only delight your palate but also inspire you to explore the vibrant world of spiced, hearty meals that bring people together.

Savor the Flavor: Delicious Beef Keema with Peas Recipe

Savor the flavor of this classic dish, which marries fragrant spices with tender ground beef to create an authentic Beef Keema with Peas that bursts with freshness and texture in every bite. Rooted in Indian culinary tradition, keema has long been celebrated for its rich, aromatic appeal and its ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This recipe invites you to explore a world of warming spices, enlivened with sweet green peas, making every spoonful a joyful celebration of taste and comfort.

Prep and Cook Time

• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 hearty portions

Difficulty Level

Medium – approachable for cooks with basic seasoning experience

Ingredients

• 500g ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup water (or as required)
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, for added heat)

Savor The Flavor: Expert Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 8 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes until they release their fragrant aroma.
3. Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook the spices with the onion mixture for 1-2 minutes to toast them lightly and deepen their flavor.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes. Cook down for 5-6 minutes until the tomatoes become mushy and oil begins to separate from the mixture, signaling a perfect masala base.
5. Crumble in the ground beef, breaking it up evenly with a spatula. Sauté consistently until the beef browns thoroughly and is no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
6. Pour in water, stir well, then cover and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld and the beef to tenderize fully.
7. Stir in the green peas and chopped green chili (if using). Cook uncovered for another 5 minutes until peas are tender yet maintain a slight crunch for that fresh burst of texture.
8. Finish with garam masala, stirring gently before removing the pot from heat. Let the keema rest for a few minutes to deepen the spice layering.

Tips for Success: Chef’s Notes

• To ensure tender ground beef, opt for beef with some fat content-lean meat can dry out quickly.
• For an even more aromatic experience, toast whole spices like cumin seeds and coriander seeds before grinding them fresh, if time permits.
• Fresh peas provide sweetness and texture, but frozen peas are an excellent substitute that maintain flavor beautifully.
• For a richer texture, add a tablespoon of plain yogurt just before the final garnish stage, stirring gently to combine.
• Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container, refrigerate, and gently reheat.
• Adjust chili powder and green chili quantity according to your heat preference; keema should be flavorful but balanced.

Serving Suggestions: Perfect Pairings for Your Keema

The vibrant flavors of this dish come alive when paired with soft, warm naan bread or fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and a wedge of lemon to add brightness. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a cool cucumber raita or a simple salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chaat masala. For an extra touch of indulgence, a dollop of cooling yogurt atop the keema wraps around the spices beautifully, making every mouthful a comforting experience.

Enhance your culinary journey by exploring our related Indian Spice Blends Guide. For more insights into authentic Indian spices and their health benefits, visit Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Q&A

Q&A: Savor the Flavor – Delicious Beef Keema with Peas Recipe

Q1: What exactly is Beef Keema, and how does it differ from other ground meat dishes?
A: Beef Keema is a classic South Asian dish made from minced beef cooked with aromatic spices, herbs, and often peas. Unlike typical ground meat recipes, keema emphasizes a rich blend of cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric, creating a complex, warm flavor profile that’s both hearty and comforting. The addition of peas introduces a subtle sweetness and pop of color, balancing the savory meat beautifully.

Q2: Why should I add peas to my Beef Keema?
A: Peas are more than just a colorful sidekick-they bring a natural sweetness and slight texture contrast to the dish, making each bite more interesting. Nutritionally, peas add fiber, vitamins, and a bit of plant-based protein, enhancing the overall healthfulness without compromising on flavor.

Q3: Can I customize the spice level of this Beef Keema with Peas?
A: Absolutely! The beauty of keema lies in its adaptability. For a mild dish, use fewer chili powders and perhaps substitute fresh green chilies with a pinch of paprika. If you thrive on heat, boost the cayenne or add chopped fresh chilies. The key is layering flavors patiently-sautéing spices slowly to unlock their essence before mixing in the beef.

Q4: What cooking methods work best for preparing Beef Keema?
A: Traditional keema recipes call for stovetop cooking in a heavy-bottomed pan, enabling even browning and melding of flavors. Slow simmering helps the spices infuse deeply while the peas gently cook through. For a quicker fix, you might use a pressure cooker or instant pot, but just be mindful not to overcook the peas so they retain their texture.

Q5: What are some serving suggestions for Beef Keema with Peas?
A: This dish is wonderfully versatile! Serve it piping hot over steamed basmati rice or warm naan for an authentic experience. You can also spoon it over baked potatoes for a fusion twist or wrap it in parathas and top with a dollop of yogurt for a satisfying meal. Garnishing with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness and freshness.

Q6: Can I prepare Beef Keema with Peas ahead of time?
A: Yes, keema actually tastes better the next day as the spices deepen in flavor. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. You can also freeze portions for up to a month-just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.

Q7: Are there any creative twists to try with this recipe?
A: Definitely! Experiment by adding diced potatoes or carrots for extra heartiness. A touch of coconut milk can lend a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, giving it a South Indian flair. For a smoky undertone, finish with a quick tempering of mustard seeds and curry leaves sautéed in ghee. The possibilities to savor your flavorful keema are endless!

Closing Remarks

As the rich aroma of spices mingles with tender beef and vibrant peas, this Beef Keema recipe invites you to experience a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and exciting. Whether served over fluffy rice or wrapped in warm flatbreads, each bite offers a delightful journey into hearty, home-cooked goodness. So next time you crave a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple, remember this delicious keema recipe-a timeless dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a feast for the senses. Dig in, savor every morsel, and let your taste buds celebrate the perfect balance of spice, texture, and tradition.