Savory mince with curry is a versatile, hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The combination of tender beef mince, a medley of fresh vegetables, and the warm spice of curry powder creates a comforting meal that pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or even toasted bread. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also highly adaptable—you can use whatever vegetables or mince you have on hand, making it an excellent option for using up ingredients in your fridge or pantry.
What makes this recipe truly special is its balance of flavors. The curry powder adds depth, the tomato paste provides richness, and the Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy-sweet note. If you’re cooking for a family with varied tastes, you can easily adjust the spice level or sneak in extra veggies for a more nutritious meal. Best of all, it freezes beautifully, so you can make a double batch and enjoy a cozy, homemade meal on busy days without extra effort.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create this flavorful and satisfying dish.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce or tomato sauce
- 1 brown onion, diced
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 500 grams beef mince (regular or lean)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup liquid beef stock
- 1 tablespoon plain flour, mixed with ¼ cup stock or water (to thicken)
- 2 carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed or finely chopped
- 1-3 teaspoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and crushed garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the finely diced carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Brown the mince: Increase the heat to high and add the beef mince. Stir constantly, breaking up any lumps with a wooden spoon, until the mince is fully browned.
- Incorporate the flavors: Stir in the tomato paste, curry powder, and salt, mixing well. Add the grated zucchini, frozen peas, Worcestershire sauce, and beef stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Thicken the sauce: Combine plain flour with ¼ cup water or stock, stirring until smooth. Pour this mixture into the pan and stir well. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened. Adjust the consistency by adding more flour for a thicker sauce or more stock for a thinner sauce.
- Taste and adjust: Sample the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding more curry powder, salt, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
- Serve: Dish out the savory mince over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or buttered toast.
Notes
- Spice it up: Use hot curry powder or a pinch of chili flakes for a spicier version.
- Swap the protein: Replace beef with chicken, turkey, lamb, or plant-based mince for a different flavor.
- Add more veggies: Include diced potatoes, mushrooms, green beans, corn, or kale to bulk up the dish.
- Low-carb option: Substitute cauliflower rice for regular rice or mashed potatoes.
- Make-ahead: Prep the veggies and store them in an airtight container until ready to cook.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
This dish provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a nourishing option for any meal. The addition of vegetables boosts the vitamin and mineral content, while the curry powder adds anti-inflammatory benefits. Using lean beef or plant-based mince can reduce the fat content, and substituting flour with a gluten-free thickener can make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! We’d love to hear how you made it your own—did you add extra veggies or try a different protein? Leave a comment with your tips or feedback, and let’s inspire more delicious home-cooked meals together. Happy cooking!