Curried Ground Beef with Peas

Qeema, a classic South Asian dish, offers a powerful blend of spices that infuse every bite with bold, savory warmth. It’s a humble yet deeply flavorful recipe that transforms simple ingredients like ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and peas into something extraordinary. The beauty of Qeema lies in its simplicity one pan, a handful of pantry spices, and a rich aroma that fills your kitchen in minutes. Perfectly served with basmati rice, naan, or even wrapped in a flatbread, this curried ground beef dish is a staple comfort food in Indian and Pakistani households. Whether you’re looking to explore new cuisines or cook a quick, hearty dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon for that final vibrant kick. It’s weeknight-friendly, budget-conscious, and sure to become a repeat favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or ghee)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef

• 2 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)

• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

• 400g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes

• 1/2 cup water

• 1 cup frozen peas

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and golden.

2. Add garlic and ginger; cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up lumps.

4. Stir in all spices: garam masala, turmeric, coriander, cumin, chili powder (if using), and cinnamon.

5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and water. Stir to combine.

6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Add peas and cook for another 5 minutes.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Timeless Appeal of Qeema (Indian Curried Ground Beef with Peas)

Among the many treasures of Indian cuisine, Qeema also spelled keema stands out as a dish that’s rich in history, flavor, and versatility. Traditionally made using ground meat (often lamb, beef, or goat), Qeema is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the Indian subcontinent. Today, variations like Curried Ground Beef with Peas have become popular in households across the world, celebrated for their bold spices, comforting textures, and ease of preparation.

This particular version of Qeema, made with ground beef and green peas, strikes the perfect balance between hearty, homestyle cooking and vibrant, aromatic complexity. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers depth of flavor in under an hour, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and leisurely weekend meals. With simple pantry ingredients and a soul-satisfying spice blend, this dish is as nourishing as it is flavorful.

A Brief History of Qeema

Qeema has its roots in Persian and Mughal cuisine. The word qeema itself means “minced meat” in Persian, and the recipe was brought to the Indian subcontinent by the Mughals. Over time, it adapted to regional tastes, incorporating locally available spices and ingredients.

Historically, Qeema was a royal dish, often prepared in elaborate ways with ground lamb or goat and adorned with saffron, dried fruits, and nuts. As the dish spread across the region, it became more localized, practical, and home-friendly. The addition of green peas (matar) became a popular variant and is now considered a classic combination. Today, Qeema Matar is a beloved dish in both Indian and Pakistani households.

Why Qeema is a Must-Try Dish

There are several reasons why Qeema continues to be a mainstay in many kitchens:

1. Comfort Food with a Kick

Qeema delivers all the comfort of a hearty stew with the punch of warming Indian spices. It’s the perfect choice when you’re craving something familiar yet exciting.

2. Extremely Versatile

You can serve Qeema in many ways over steamed rice, scooped up with warm naan or roti, or even spooned into a lettuce wrap or stuffed in parathas for a fusion twist. It can even be used as a filling for samosas or stuffed buns.

3. Customizable Heat and Flavor

From mild and mellow to fiery hot, Qeema is easy to tailor to your taste preferences. You can adjust the chili levels or experiment with spice blends like garam masala, cumin, or coriander for different flavor profiles.

4. Budget-Friendly and Accessible

Ground beef is relatively inexpensive and easy to find, making this dish a budget-conscious choice for families. The other ingredients—onions, tomatoes, peas, and spices are pantry staples in most households.

5. Meal Prep Friendly

Qeema stores and reheats beautifully. In fact, the flavor deepens overnight, making leftovers arguably even better than the first serving. It’s a great recipe to make in bulk for meal planning or freezing.

Key Flavors and Aromatics

One of the most enchanting aspects of this dish is its aroma. As the onions caramelize and the spices bloom in oil, your kitchen will be filled with the unmistakable scent of Indian home cooking.

The spice profile typically includes:

• Garam Masala: A warm spice blend that serves as the base.

• Turmeric: Adds a deep yellow color and earthy tone.

• Cumin and Coriander: These classic spices give depth and a slight citrusy edge.

• Cinnamon: A subtle sweet note that elevates the savory richness.

• Chili Powder (optional): For those who like a bit of heat.

Fresh garlic and ginger provide that distinct pungency and freshness that elevate the flavor of the ground beef, while the addition of canned tomatoes creates a slightly tangy, savory base. Peas are added for sweetness and texture contrast.

How to Serve Qeema

Qeema’s adaptability makes it suitable for multiple serving styles. Here are some of the most popular:

1. With Rice

The classic pairing. The soft, fluffy grains of basmati rice are the perfect vehicle for the rich curry sauce.

2. With Indian Breads

Serve Qeema with naan, roti, or chapati to scoop up every bite. This is how it’s traditionally enjoyed in many Indian homes.

3. As a Wrap or Stuffing

Use Qeema as a filling for tacos, lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or even stuffed into puff pastries or savory pies. It’s perfect for packed lunches or picnics.

4. On Its Own

It’s perfectly satisfying as a standalone meal, especially if you’re watching carbs. Garnish with cilantro and lemon juice for a light, protein-rich option.

Tips for the Perfect Qeema

If you want to make the best possible Qeema, consider the following tips:

• Brown the Meat Properly: This adds more depth and prevents the beef from tasting boiled or bland.

• Let the Spices Bloom: Don’t rush the step where spices are sautéed with onions, garlic, and ginger this releases their essential oils and enhances flavor.

• Simmer for Flavor: Giving the dish time to simmer helps the flavors marry and intensifies the richness of the sauce.

• Don’t Skip the Garnishes: A bit of lemon juice and chopped fresh cilantro at the end brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness.

Pairing Ideas and Meal Planning

Qeema is a flexible dish that works well with sides and accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions:

• Cucumber Raita: A yogurt-based side that balances the spices and adds a cooling element.

• Pickled Onions: For a tangy, crunchy texture contrast.

• Fried Eggs: A sunny-side-up egg on top of a bowl of Qeema rice adds an indulgent twist.

• Biryani-Style Qeema: Layer Qeema with cooked rice and saffron for a quick version of Keema Biryani.

You can also double the recipe and freeze half for later use. It makes an excellent base for curry bowls, loaded naan wraps, or even Qeema pasta yes, that’s a thing!

Cultural Significance and Global Reach

Qeema is more than just a recipe it’s a dish steeped in tradition and cultural connection. In South Asia, Qeema is often served at family gatherings, festive occasions, and casual weeknight dinners. It’s a dish that evokes memories, especially when prepared the way grandma used to make it.

As Indian cuisine has gained popularity around the globe, Qeema has also found its place in international kitchens. Food lovers and home cooks around the world now embrace this spiced ground meat dish not just for its flavor, but for its comforting qualities and practical appeal.

Conclusion:

Curried Ground Beef with Peas is a stellar example of how minimal ingredients, when combined with the right spices and cooking techniques, can deliver a meal that is memorable, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

It’s a dish that bridges the gap between tradition and modern convenience, offering the warmth of a home-cooked Indian meal without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned enthusiast, this dish is a great place to start or revisit.