South African Curried Beef Gratin -

South African Curried Beef Gratin

Ingredients

2 tablespoons pine nuts almonds or slivered cashews
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon canola or sunflower oil
2 lb lean beef, ground
1 teaspoon salt
20 grinds black pepper
1 tablespoon indian curry paste or 2 teaspoons curry powder
3 tablespoons apricot preserves or mango chutney
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Custard mixture

3 large eggs
1⅓ cups coconut milk, canned
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons soy sauce
½ teaspoon paprika
1 pinch chilli powder
10 grinds black pepper
2 bay leaves

Details

Serves: 5

Method

Preheat oven to 175˚C (350˚F). In heavy-based skillet, toast nuts over moderate heat, tossing frequently, until they smell toasty, about 3 minutes.

In large skillet over moderate heat, heat oil and cook onion, stirring, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add ground beef and fry, stirring once or twice, until well-browned, about 3 minutes. Add salt, pepper, curry, preserves and lemon juice. Cook gently for 5 minutes, then stir in the toasted nuts.

Transfer to casserole or small gratin dish, and keep warm while you make the topping.

Custard Mixture: In bowl, whisk eggs with coconut milk. Add salt, soy sauce, paprika, chili powder and black pepper. Mix well, then pour custard (it will be thin) evenly over meat mixture. Arrange bay leaves on top.

Bake for 30 minutes, until top has set and is golden brown. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving with rice and a green vegetable.

Related food category:

• Beef