Bo kho stew

bo_kho_stew

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its unique blend of flavors and spices, creating a delicious and diverse food culture. One of the most popular dishes in Vietnam is Bo kho stew, a hearty and warming dish perfect for the cooler months.

This braised beef stew is made with a blend of aromatic spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and lemongrass. The meat is slowly cooked until it becomes tender and flavorful, making each bite a delightful explosion of tastes and textures.

Bo kho is a popular street food in Vietnam, loved by locals and tourists alike. It is often served with a crispy French baguette or over a bed of rice noodles, making it the perfect meal for any occasion.

The origins of Bo kho stew can be traced back to the northern part of Vietnam. Initially, this dish was created as a way to preserve meat during the winter months. The beef was typically marinated in vinegar and spices, then slowly cooked over an open fire for several hours until it became tender and flavorful.

Over time, the recipe evolved, with different regions adding their twist to the dish. Some regions added more spices, while others added potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables to make the stew more wholesome.

In modern Vietnamese households, Bo kho stew is often prepared in a slow cooker or pressure cooker, making it an easy and convenient meal to make. The long cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, comforting broth perfect for a cold winter night.

Bo kho is not only delicious but also nutritious. The dish contains a good source of protein from the beef, along with an array of essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and spices.

You can customize the recipe to suit your taste, adding more chili for a spicier kick or more vegetables for a healthier option. The recipe is also versatile, allowing for different protein options such as chicken or tofu.

In Vietnam, Bo kho is a dish that brings people together, with families and friends often gathering to share a pot of stew. It is a dish that represents the warmth and comfort of home, with each spoonful offering a taste of tradition and culture.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newcomer to Vietnamese cuisine, Bo kho stew is a must-try dish. Its rich and complex flavors are sure to leave you craving more, making it a perfect addition to your meal repertoire.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1.5” cubes
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp fish sauce
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Chinese five spice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3-4 cups beef broth
  • 2-3 carrots, sliced
  • 2-3 potatoes, cut into 1.5” cubes
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional)
  • Cilantro, sliced chili peppers, and lime wedges for serving

Method:

  1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pot.

  2. Add the beef cubes and cook until brown on all sides.

  3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until fragrant.

  4. Add the tomato paste, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, curry powder, paprika, Chinese five spice, and salt. Mix well until the beef is coated with the spices.

  5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

  6. Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot and cook until they are tender.

  7. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of water and stir it into the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the stew thickens.

  8. Serve in bowls, garnished with cilantro, chili peppers, and lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty Vietnamese Bo kho stew!