Keema Aloo (Ground Beef and Potatoes): A Comforting Classic

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef and the earthy goodness of potatoes, look no further than Keema Aloo. This classic South Asian recipe is perfect for anyone craving a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the ingredients, preparation methods, and various tips and tricks to make this dish perfect every time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, Keema Aloo is a recipe you’ll want to add to your repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Keema Aloo is an ideal dish for those who enjoy robust, spiced flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is versatile, allowing for various modifications to suit different dietary preferences and ingredient availability. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a comforting dish to impress guests.

Keema Aloo (Ground Beef and Potatoes): A Comforting Classic

Recipe by Alesia IonaCourse: LunchCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

315

kcal

Keema Aloo is a flavorful and hearty South Asian dish combining ground beef with tender potatoes, spiced with cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger root

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• 1 pound ground beef

• 2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes

• 1 cup frozen green peas

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Directions

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, ginger, and garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and golden brown.
• Add the ground beef, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook and stir until the beef is browned and crumbly.
• Stir in the potatoes, diced tomatoes, and peas. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make Keema Aloo, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener

Tips and Variations

Cooking Tips

• Even Cooking: Make sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Fresh Spices: Use fresh spices for the best flavor. Whole spices ground at home can elevate the dish significantly.
• Simmering: Allow the dish to simmer gently to blend the flavors well. Avoid high heat which can burn the spices.

Variations

• Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or lamb for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with tofu, chickpeas, or lentils for a vegetarian version.
• Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder to your heat preference. You can also add a fresh green chili for extra heat.
• Additional Vegetables: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition.

Storing Leftovers

Keema Aloo stores exceptionally well, making it a great option for meal prep. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Keema Aloo in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water to prevent sticking.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated thoroughly.

Food Pairings

Keema Aloo pairs wonderfully with various side dishes and beverages:

• Side Dishes: Serve with steamed basmati rice, naan bread, or a simple cucumber raita.
• Beverages: A cold lassi or a chilled beer can complement the spices beautifully.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Keema Aloo tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted to your liking. The recipe as written has a moderate heat level. Reduce the chili powder for a milder version, or add more for extra heat.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Substitute the canned tomatoes with 2-3 fresh tomatoes, chopped. You might need to add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

While fresh potatoes are recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen potatoes in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the skillet.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make Keema Aloo vegan, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms and cauliflower.

Conclusion

Keema Aloo is a delightful dish that’s both easy to make and rich in flavor. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of South Asian cuisine in the comfort of their home. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.

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