Authentic Madras Curry Recipe

Experience the authentic taste of South India with this fiery Madras Curry, adapted from Pat Chapman's acclaimed Curry Club cookbook. Unlike many recipes, this avoids pre-made curry powder for a truly unique flavor profile. Made with tender beef or chicken, this curry is incredibly flavorful and boasts a delightful heat that's perfect for adventurous palates. Easily adaptable for slow cookers, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or batch cooking. Freezes beautifully for future enjoyment!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 85 mins

Calories 93 kcal

Protein 5g

Rating Be the first

155

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Authentic Madras Curry

1 1/2 lbs beef (or lamb or chicken)
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 ounce) can tomato puree
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tbsp ghee (if used as cooking oil)
Dried Red Chilies
1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper (to taste)
Chili Powder
1 tsp ground cumin
Fenugreek Seeds
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
Cardamoms
Garam Masala
Dried Fenugreek Leaves
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Madras curry powder
1 tsp ground coriander
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 cup water (or beef broth)
1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
1 tbsp fresh lime juice

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How to Make Authentic Madras Curry

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef or chicken cubes and sear on all sides until browned. Remove meat with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add spices 1 (Madras curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper) and cook for a further 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato puree. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
Return the seared meat to the pan. Transfer everything to a casserole dish.
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the curry in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Remove from oven. Stir in garam masala, ginger, and black pepper. Add lemon or lime juice. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
Add a little water if the curry becomes too dry during cooking.
Stir in ghee just before serving. Serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

9 g

Sugar

33g

Fat

Carbs

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

Main Courses Main Dish / Dinner Poultry Chicken Recipes Beef & Red Meat Asian Indian

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

Curries Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Cuisine Preparation Main Dish Beef Poultry Asian Indian Chicken Meat 4 Hours Or Less

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Authentic Madras Curry?

Authentic Madras Curry takes about 105 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 85 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Authentic Madras Curry?

Authentic Madras Curry has approximately 93 calories per serving, with about 5 g protein, 5 g carbohydrates and 4 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Authentic Madras Curry?

The key ingredients for Authentic Madras Curry are Meat, Corn Oil, Onion, Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Puree, Fresh Lemon Juice. See the full list with measurements above.