There’s a certain thrill in turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and nothing captures that magic quite like this Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms. Picture this: as the beef gently braises in a fragrant coconut sauce, the sweet and zesty aromas of lemongrass and fresh ginger swirl through the kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. This is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace after a long day, an escape from mundane fast-food evenings, and a culinary adventure that doesn’t demand hours of slaving over the stove.
I first discovered this gem on a rainy afternoon when the chill in the air called for a warm, hearty dish. With just a few minutes of prep, I was able to create a masterpiece that simmered away, filling my home with the delightful scents of spices melting together into pure bliss. The tender beef, combined with earthy mushrooms and vibrant vegetables, finds a perfect home over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, making it an irresistible treat for family and friends alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just trying to spice things up in the kitchen, this recipe promises ease, flavor, and the ultimate satisfaction—because homemade is always better. Ready to dive in? Let’s cook!
Why love Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms?
Irresistible flavor explosion: The rich coconut sauce combined with zesty lemongrass and spices creates an unforgettable taste experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Simple preparation: You’ll only spend 20 minutes prepping this dish, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Crowd pleaser: It’s perfect for gatherings, impressing your guests without keeping you in the kitchen all night.
Nourishing comfort: The tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and fresh veggies all come together for a heartwarming meal that feels like a hug.
Meal prep hero: The leftovers pack well for lunch, ensuring you savor this deliciousness again. Try pairing it with steamed jasmine rice for the ultimate comfort food combination.
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Ingredients
• Get ready to create a comforting delight in your kitchen!
For the Beef
- 3 pounds beef chuck – perfect for slow braising and becomes tender when cooked.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the beef’s natural flavor; adjust to taste.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – adds a touch of warmth and depth.
For the Curry Sauce
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil – use avocado or grapeseed oil for high-heat cooking.
- 1 lemongrass stalk – brings a citrusy brightness that elevates the dish.
- 2 serrano peppers – add heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger – infuses a zesty warmth into the sauce.
- 4 large garlic cloves – garlic is essential for amazing flavor; slice thinly for better release.
- 6 makrut lime leaves – lend a distinct floral aroma, enhancing the curry’s complexity.
- ¼ cup red curry paste – the star of the show that provides a rich, bold taste.
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric – not just for color, it also adds a subtle earthiness.
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) full-fat coconut milk – creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 cup water – helps to achieve the perfect sauciness.
- ¼ cup palm sugar or light brown sugar – balances the dish with a hint of sweetness.
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce – provides an umami punch that enriches the flavor profile.
For the Vegetables
- 1 large yellow onion – adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even distribution.
- 3 medium carrots – their natural sweetness complements the savory elements perfectly.
- 8 ounces mushrooms – shiitake, cremini, or button work wonders; they add earthiness to the dish.
For Serving
- Steamed jasmine or basmati rice – the perfect vessel to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
- Fresh cilantro leaves – garnish for a pop of freshness and color.
- Lime wedges – add a splash of citrus brightness just before serving.
- Chili oil or chili flakes – drizzle or sprinkle on top for extra heat if desired.
This Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms is an unforgettable venture into home cooking that your family will adore!
How to Make Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect braise.
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Pat dry the beef using paper towels, then season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. This will help build flavor in every juicy bite.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking for the best sear.
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Sear the beef in batches for about 2–3 minutes per side until browned. This creates a beautiful crust and intensifies the flavor. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
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Lower the heat to medium. In the same pot, add the sliced serrano peppers, minced ginger, garlic, lemongrass, lime leaves, red curry paste, and turmeric. Stir for 2–3 minutes until fragrant; you’ll love the savory aroma filling the kitchen!
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Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until they release moisture and start to brown, adding richness to the sauce.
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Pour in 2 cans of coconut milk and 1 cup of water, then stir to dissolve the curry paste. Next, add ¼ cup of palm sugar and 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, stirring until the sugar melts. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as desired.
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Return the seared beef along with any juices back to the pot. Add the chopped onion and carrots, gently stirring to coat everything in the delicious sauce.
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Cover with a lid and transfer the pot to the oven. Braise for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to a rich consistency.
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Remove from the oven and discard the lemongrass pieces and lime leaves.
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Let the curry rest, covered, for about 30 minutes before serving. This bit of patience allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Spoon the beef, mushrooms, and luxurious sauce over steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and drizzle with chili oil or chili flakes to your liking.
Optional: For added freshness, top with sliced green onions just before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms
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Searing Perfection: Ensure the beef is patted dry to achieve a good sear; moist beef will steam instead of brown, affecting flavor.
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Adjust Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of serrano peppers. Start with one and taste before adding more to avoid overwhelming spice.
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Layering Flavors: Allow the spices and aromatics to cook until fragrant prior to adding liquids. This enhances the overall flavor of your Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef.
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Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting phase after cooking; it helps the flavors marry together and improves tenderness in the meat.
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Perfect Rice Pairing: Serve on a bed of steamed jasmine rice to soak up every drop of the rich coconut sauce, creating a satisfying meal.
How to Store and Freeze Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld!
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the beef curry. Pour it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. You may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to bring back the creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, pair it again with jasmine or basmati rice and fresh garnishes like cilantro and lime for maximum enjoyment!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and sear the beef up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply store the beef and veggies in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the sauce, mix the garlic, ginger, curry paste, turmeric, and other ingredients ahead of time as well; this can also be refrigerated. When you’re ready to cook, combine everything in the Dutch oven, cover, then braise as instructed. This method ensures your dish remains just as delicious while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for a truly comforting meal!
What to Serve with Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms?
Picture yourself gathering around the table, surrounded by loved ones, as you enjoy a meal that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect base to soak up the rich coconut sauce, adding tenderness and a calming aroma to each bite.
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Crispy Asian Salad: Fresh and crunchy, a zesty salad with cucumbers, carrots, and a light ginger dressing will brighten your meal and balance out the savory flavors.
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Roasted Broccoli: Tossed with garlic and a drizzle of sesame oil, roasted broccoli brings a satisfying crunch that complements the soft braise of the beef beautifully.
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Mango Chutney: A sweet and tangy chutney will cut through the richness of the curry, offering a refreshing contrast that your taste buds will adore.
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Chili Oil Drizzle: For those seeking a spicy kick, a drizzle of chili oil on top of the serving enhances flavors and adds a punch that resonates with the curry’s warmth.
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Coconut Water: To keep the tropical vibes going, serve refreshing coconut water as a drink—its subtle sweetness will provide the perfect thirst-quencher alongside this dish.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Add vibrant flavor by mixing lime juice and fresh cilantro into your rice, echoing the essence of the dish while creating a lively side.
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Peanut Satay Sauce: Serve this alongside grilled skewers for a fun, interactive element that pairs wonderfully with the rich curry flavors.
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Chocolate Coconut Mousse: Conclude the meal with a decadent chocolate mousse; the sweetness of chocolate pairs perfectly with creamy coconut for a delightful finish.
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste buds and dietary needs!
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms or tempeh for a plant-based feast. Add extra veggies like bell peppers for flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate Thai bird’s eye chilies instead of serrano peppers for an added punch of heat, igniting your taste experience.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in brown or cashew nuts for added texture and a satisfying crunch, elevating the dish to new heights.
- Coconut Creamy: Use coconut cream instead of full-fat coconut milk for a richer, creamier sauce that envelops everything deliciously.
- Herb Infusion: Swap cilantro for fresh Thai basil before serving for an aromatic twist that enhances the dish with a fragrant flair.
- Citrusy Zing: Add a splash of fresh lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors and enhance the overall dish.
- Slow Cooker Option: Prepare it in a slow cooker on low for 8 hours, allowing flavors to meld while you go about your day.
- Exotic Twist: Experiment with different curry pastes like Massaman for a unique flavor profile that takes this dish on a whole new adventure.
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best lemongrass?
Absolutely! Look for lemongrass stalks that are firm with a vibrant green color. The outer layers should be tightly wrapped, and the bulb should be plump. If you notice any dark spots or wilting, it’s best to choose another stalk!
What’s the best way to store leftover Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making for an even more delightful meal the next day!
Can I freeze this dish? How do I do it properly?
Yes, you definitely can freeze it! Let the curry cool completely, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore its creaminess.
What if my beef isn’t tender after cooking?
Very likely! If your beef isn’t tender after the cooking time, it may need a bit longer to braise. Be sure to check the pot occasionally, and if it looks too dry, add a bit more liquid. Keeping the pot covered helps to retain moisture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Of course! This dish contains coconut milk and fish sauce, which can cause allergies for some people. For a dairy-free option, the coconut milk is great. If you need to modify for allergies, you can omit the fish sauce and use soy sauce or coconut aminos as an alternative. Just adjust to taste to maintain the savory depth of flavor.
Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat dry the beef using paper towels, then season with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium. In the same pot, add the sliced serrano peppers, minced ginger, garlic, lemongrass, lime leaves, red curry paste, and turmeric. Stir for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until they release moisture and start to brown.
- Pour in 2 cans of coconut milk and 1 cup of water, then stir to dissolve the curry paste. Add ¼ cup of palm sugar and 3 tablespoons of fish sauce, stirring until the sugar melts.
- Return the seared beef along with any juices back to the pot. Add chopped onion and carrots, gently stirring to coat everything in the sauce.
- Cover with a lid and transfer the pot to the oven. Braise for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Remove from the oven and discard the lemongrass pieces and lime leaves.
- Let the curry rest, covered, for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Spoon the beef, mushrooms, and sauce over steamed rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, and drizzle with chili oil or chili flakes.