Beef and Koorkka Roast / Beef and Chinese Potato Roast

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Gayatri (@rene121)

Here's a detailed explanation and a step-by-step recipe for Koorkka (Chinese Potato) and Beef Curry, a traditional dish from Kerala, India. This earthy, spicy, and aromatic combination is especially popular during the winter months when koorkka is in season. Koorkka, also known as Chinese Potato, is a seasonal root vegetable popular in South India, especially in Kerala. It has a nutty, earthy flavor and a firm texture that pairs beautifully with spicy curries—especially beef.

Beef and Koorkka Roast / Beef and Chinese Potato Roast recipe

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Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
35min
Total Time
1hr 5min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion)
  • Beef (boneless, cubes)
    Beef (boneless, cubes)
    500g
  • Koorkka (Chinese potato)
    Koorkka (Chinese potato)
    250g
  • Onion (large, sliced)
    Onion (large, sliced)
    1
  • Ginger paste
    Ginger paste
    1tbsp
  • Garlic paste
    Garlic paste
    1tbsp
  • Green chilies (slit)
    Green chilies (slit)
    2
  • Turmeric powder
    Turmeric powder
    1/2tsp
  • Red chili powder
    Red chili powder
    1tsp
  • Coriander powder
    Coriander powder
    1 1/2tsp
  • Garam masala
    Garam masala
    1/2tsp
  • Pepper powder
    Pepper powder
    1tsp
  • Fennel seed powder
    Fennel seed powder
    1 1/2tsp
  • Salt (to taste)
    Salt (to taste)
  • Curry leaves (a few)
    Curry leaves (a few)
  • Water
    Water
    1/2cup
  • Coconut oil
    Coconut oil
    2tbsp

How to make Beef and Koorkka Roast / Beef and Chinese Potato Roast

Clean the Koorkka

  1. Step 1

    Scrape or rub the rough, hairy skin of the koorkka clean using a blunt knife or soak in water and scrub.

    Step 1.1: Scrape or rub the rough, hairy skin of the koorkka clean using a blunt knife or soak in water and scrub
  2. Step 2

    Wash thoroughly 2–3 times to remove dirt and peel the outer skin using a knife.

  3. Step 3

    Cut into large pieces and soak in water. Set aside.

    Step 1.1: Cut into large pieces and soak in water

Prepare the Beef

  1. Step 1

    Wash the beef pieces thoroughly and set aside.

  2. Step 2

    Heat a pressure cooker and add coconut oil.

  3. Step 3

    Once the oil is hot, add sliced onion and sauté until light brown.

  4. Step 4

    Add green chilies and curry leaves. Sauté for 1 minute.

  5. Step 5

    Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw taste is gone.

  6. Step 6

    Lower the flame and add chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.

  7. Step 7

    Add the beef pieces, turn the flame to medium-high, and mix well for 3-4 minutes. Do not add water at this time.

    Step 2.1: Add the beef pieces, turn the flame to medium-high, and mix well for 3-4 minutes
  8. Step 8

    After 3-4 minutes, Add enough water for cooking and cook until the beef is 75% done.

Combine and Cook

  1. Step 1

    Open the pressure cooker lid and add the cleaned koorkka to the beef mixture.

    Step 3.1: Open the pressure cooker lid and add the cleaned koorkka to the beef mixture
  2. Step 2

    Mix well and cook for 2 whistles in the pressure cooker.

  3. Step 3

    Let the pressure release completely, then open the lid.

  4. Step 4

    Cook again until the the water content reduce completely.

  5. Step 5

    Finally add fennel seed powder and pepper powder. Mix well and turn off the flame.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

336.3kcal (16.81%)

Protein

30.6g (61.26%)

Carbs

8.8g (3.2%)

Sugars

0.8g (1.6%)

Healthy Fat

12.1g

Unhealthy Fat

11.5g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the koorkka is thoroughly cleaned to remove all dirt and hairy skin for the best texture.

  2. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by modifying the amount of chili powder and green chilies.

  3. Allow the pressure cooker to release pressure naturally for better flavor infusion.

FAQS

  1. What is Koorkka?

    Koorkka, also known as Chinese potato, is a seasonal root vegetable popular in South India, especially in Kerala. It has a nutty, earthy flavor and a firm texture.

  2. Can I use regular potatoes instead of Koorkka?

    Yes, you can substitute koorkka with regular potatoes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

  3. How do I clean Koorkka?

    Scrape or rub the rough, hairy skin of the koorkka clean using a blunt knife or soak in water and scrub. Wash thoroughly and peel the outer skin using a knife.

  4. Can I make this dish without a pressure cooker?

    Yes, you can cook it in a regular pot, but it will take longer to cook the beef and koorkka until tender.

  5. What can I serve with Beef and Koorkka Roast?

    This dish pairs well with steamed rice, appam, or paratha.

rene121's profile picture

Gayatri

(@rene121)

Cooking is my passion. Flavours unite us 🤝..I love to create new recipes... and also love to learn about different cuisine.

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