Ingredients

2 lbs boneless beef chuck , cut into 1.5 inch cube ( weigh after trimming )
1 stalk lemongrass , cut into 2 inch pieces and bruised
3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons Chinese five spice powder
1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons minced ginger
1 bay leaf
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion , chopped
1 cups chopped fresh tomatoes or can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 lb carrot , peeled , cut into 1 inch chunks
2 star anise
3 cups water
Thai basil ( optional )
cilantro ( optional )
Bo' Kho is a traditional Vietnamese beef stew that's often eaten for breakfast or lunch, but can be enjoyed any time of day. The use of fragrant spices like ginger and star anise, as well as fresh herbs like Thai basil, give the dish a distinctly Vietnamese flavor profile. The beef is slow-cooked until it's melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the vegetables like carrot and onion add a slightly sweet and savory taste. This recipe is a great one to have in your arsenal for a cozy night in on a chilly day, as it's sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, combine the beef, lemongrass, fish sauce, Chinese five spice powder, brown sugar, minced ginger, and bay leaf. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
2.In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3.Add the chopped tomatoes and salt to the pot, and continue sautéing for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4.Add the beef (including the marinade), carrot chunks, star anise, and water to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the stew to a boil.
5.Reduce the heat to low and simmer the stew for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6.Serve the Bo' Kho hot, garnished with Thai basil and cilantro if desired.

PROS

This hearty stew is full of tender beef and nutritious vegetables, making it a satisfying and healthy meal option.

The flavors are complex and aromatic, thanks to the use of spices like Chinese five spice powder and star anise.

It can be made ahead of time and reheated for an easy weeknight dinner.

CONS

The stew requires a long cooking time, so it’s not ideal for a quick weeknight meal.

There are quite a few ingredients involved, so it may be difficult to source everything if you don’t have a well-stocked kitchen.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Vietnamese Beef Stew is a nutritious meal option that’s high in protein and fiber.
The beef provides essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair, while the vegetables like carrots and tomatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals.
The use of spices like ginger, star anise, and lemongrass may also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits.

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