Bo luc lac shaking beef

bo_luc_lac_shaking_beef

Bo luc lac, more commonly known as shaking beef, is a beloved and iconic dish in Vietnamese cuisine. It is a dish that is not only popular within Vietnamese households but also commonly found on the menus of Vietnamese restaurants all over the world. The dish is characterized by its tender and flavorful cubes of beef that are lightly seared and served with a side of fresh crisp vegetables, fragrant herbs, and a light dipping sauce. This dish is perfect for any meal, whether it be a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion with friends and family.

Shaking beef is believed to have originated in the northern region of Vietnam, known for its colder climate, but the dish has become popular throughout the country. It is also a signature dish of the well-known Vietnamese chef, Charles Phan, who has helped to elevate the dish’s popularity in the United States. The name “shaking beef” comes from the method of preparation, where the beef is shaken vigorously in the wok during cooking to ensure that it is evenly seared.

The key to making a great bo luc lac is to use the correct cut of beef. A good cut of steak is essential to achieve the desired taste and texture. Traditionally, Vietnamese cooks use beef tenderloin, but sirloin, flank or rib-eye steaks can also be used. The beef is sliced into small cubes and marinated in soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and fish sauce. The marinade infuses the meat with a deep, umami flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet.

Once the beef is marinated, it is cooked over high heat for just a few minutes until it is seared on the outside but still tender on the inside. The beef should be cooked in small batches to ensure that it is not overcrowded in the wok, allowing it to sear evenly. The shaking technique is used to flip the beef cubes in the wok evenly without overcooking or breaking them apart.

The dish is typically served with a side of fresh vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumber, and tomato, and aromatic herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil. This combination of fresh, crisp vegetables and savory beef contrasts beautifully and creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Finally, the dish is topped with a tangy dipping sauce made of lime juice, fish sauce, and sugar, which enhances the dish’s umami flavors and adds a refreshing zing.

While Bo luc lac may look simple, it is a dish that requires careful attention to detail to achieve its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Its popularity has made it a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and its delicious flavor has made it popular all over the world. Whether you are a veteran of Vietnamese cuisine or a newcomer looking to try something new, shaking beef or bo luc lac is a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin pieces
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 onion, sliced into thin pieces
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin pieces
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Lettuce leaves, for serving
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the beef and let it marinate for 30 minutes.

  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or a large skillet over high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 20 seconds until fragrant. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

  3. In the same pan, melt the butter and add the onion and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.

  4. Return the beef to the pan and stir-fry for another minute until it’s heated through. Add the green onions and toss everything together.

  5. Serve the shaken beef on a bed of lettuce leaves and garnish with lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Vietnamese Bo Luc Lac!