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How far can I go before freezing my slow cooker beef curry

6 replies

TotalConfucius · 18/12/2015 11:18

If anywhere of course.
I am going a bit rad this Boxing Day and serving curries instead of a buffet. One of DH's aunts, who is something of a guest of honour, has had a stroke this year and I feel a fork-only meal will maintain her dignity and independence best. (Actually, everyone seems really keen on the idea weirdly).
The turkey curry is no problem.
My favourite beef one is the Rachel Manley slow cooker beef curry as seen on BBC food. It's 8 hours in a slow cooker.
So unless I get up at the crack of dawn and start chopping chillies and throwing raw beef about, it won't be ready till gawd knows what time.
Do you think if I use absolutely fresh, not previously frozen, ingredients, I could get it all done up to the point of putting it in the slow cooker, then freeze it, perhaps on Monday or Tuesday, defrost overnight and put into the slow cooker on Boxing morning. My concern is the beef - it will have been browned in the pan but it won't be fully cooked will it?
What D'you reckon?

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cdtaylornats · 18/12/2015 12:19

Why not just cook it completely, freeze it then reheat in the microwave. A beef curry shouldn't be harmed by zapping.

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chemenger · 18/12/2015 12:20

I would cook it completely and freeze. Or cook a couple of days ahead and cool and refrigerate. Most stew type thinks taste better the next day, or the day after.

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AliMonkey · 18/12/2015 12:28

Definitely cook fully then freeze and will taste better as well after defrosting and reheating (oven or microwave). Or make on Christmas Eve and put in fridge but suspect your fridge will have little room at this time of year! Am doing the same with a beef casserole this weekend.

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SurelyYoureJokingMrFeynman · 18/12/2015 12:30

^ What they all said. Including the improvement in flavour.

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TotalConfucius · 18/12/2015 13:15

Oh I s'pose you're all right.
So long as you're sure it won't go all slushy and squishy and slimy.
I'll hunt you down if it does!

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SurelyYoureJokingMrFeynman · 18/12/2015 13:22

Umm, well squishy is a possibility. If concerned, you could reasonably cook it to safe but not falling apart first time round, then finish to your taste on the day.