Beef Idichathu

Ingredients

1. Beef –  400 – 500 gm, cubed

Cook beef pieces adding a little turmeric powder, pepper powder, 2 – 3 tbsp water and salt for 3 – 4 whistles or until done. Drain excess water. Set aside to cool.

2. Coconut oil – 2 – 2.5 tbsp

Dried red chilies – 6 – 8

3. Shallots – 6 – 8, crushed

Ginger – 2 tsp, crushed or finely chopped

Garlic – 2 tsp, crushed or finely chopped

Curry leaves – A few, chopped

4. Crushed black pepper corns – 1/2 tsp

Fennel powder or garam masala powder – 1/4 tsp or to taste (optional)

5. Salt – To taste

Method

1.  Heat 1.5 – 2 tbsp coconut oil in a kadai over medium-high heat. Fry dried red chilies until browned and then remove to a plate. Add the beef cubes and fry for 6 – 7 minutes until dry and browned. Set aside to cool. Crush the fried dry red chilies in the small jar of a blender. Transfer to a bowl. Next crush the fried beef pieces  in 3 – 4 batches. It makes about 2 cups.

2. Heat 1 – 2 tbsp coconut oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add crushed shallots, pinch of salt, crushed ginger, garlic and curry leaves. Saute until light golden. Add shredded beef, crushed red chilly flakes and cook for 5 – 6 minutes over low heat until slightly crisp. Check for salt. Finally add crushed black pepper corns and fennel powder, if using. Cook for a minute. Switch off. Serve with rice and other side-dishes.