The Best Vietnamese Dinner Recipes with Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a fragrant and versatile ingredient widely used in Vietnamese cuisine, known for its citrusy flavor that elevates the taste of numerous dishes. Here’s a compilation of some of the best Vietnamese dinner recipes featuring this aromatic herb, perfect for making your evening meals delightful and refreshing.

1. Vietnamese Lemongrass Chicken (Gà Xào Sả)

This dish showcases tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of lemongrass, garlic, and fish sauce. Served with steamed jasmine rice, it’s an aromatic and savory meal.

Ingredients:

  • 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro and lime for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, and sugar. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime before serving.

2. Lemongrass Beef Skewers (Bò Nướng Sả)

Grilled beef skewers marinated with lemongrass create a flavorful outdoor dining experience. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners, this dish is a hit among meat lovers.

Ingredients:

  • 500g beef sirloin, cut into strips
  • 3 stalks of lemongrass, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix lemongrass, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and garlic. Add the beef and let it marinate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef onto skewers.
  3. Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked to your desired doneness.

3. Lemongrass Tofu Stir-Fry (Đậu Hủ Xào Sả)

This vegetarian option is packed with flavor and nutrients. Lemongrass infuses the tofu with a delightful aroma while colorful vegetables add texture and crunch.

Ingredients:

  • 400g firm tofu, cubed
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add lemongrass and sauté until fragrant.
  2. Add tofu, bell pepper, and carrot, then stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Pour in the soy sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

4. Lemongrass Fish (Cá Kho Sả)

This delightful dish features fish simmered in a mixture of lemongrass and other savory ingredients, creating a comforting and aromatic meal.

Ingredients:

  • 500g white fish fillets (like catfish or tilapia)
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass, smashed and chopped