Vietnamese Beef Stew (bo’ Kho)

Vietnamese Beef Stew (Bò Kho) is a fragrant and hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of beef, lemongrass, star anise, and a variety of aromatic spices. This stew is traditionally enjoyed with either crusty French bread for dipping or served over rice noodles for a satisfying meal. Its unique blend of spices, including cinnamon and cloves, creates a beautifully balanced broth with a subtle sweetness and earthy warmth. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the broth. This dish is perfect for both everyday meals and special gatherings, bringing a little bit of Vietnam’s vibrant culinary tradition to your table.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef brisket or stew meat, cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 stalks lemongrass, bruised and tied into knots
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 cups beef broth or water
• Fresh cilantro and Thai basil for garnish
• Lime wedges, to serve
• French baguette or rice noodles, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the beef with 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, five-spice powder, and paprika. Let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Brown the beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches, searing each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the aromatics: In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
4. Simmer the stew: Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, star anise, cinnamon stick, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer covered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
5. Add carrots: About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the carrots and continue to simmer until they are cooked through.
6. Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra fish sauce or sugar if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and Thai basil. Serve with lime wedges, and enjoy with a crusty baguette or over rice noodles.

Enjoy your flavorful bowl of Bò Kho, a true comfort food with a vibrant Vietnamese twist!