Traditional Vietnamese Beef Stew Recipe

The traditional Vietnamese beef stew, also known as "Bo Kho," is a hearty and comforting dish that embodies the rich and vibrant flavors of Vietnam. This beloved recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes - 2 tbsp vegetable oil - 3 cloves of garlic, minced - 1 large onion, diced - 2 tbsp tomato paste - 1 tbsp sugar - 1 tbsp fish sauce - 1 tsp five-spice powder - 1 tsp ground black pepper - 4 cups beef broth - 2 cups diced carrots - 2 cups diced potatoes - 1-2 stalks of lemongrass, bruised - Fresh herbs (cilantro, Thai basil) for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until fragrant.

2. Add the beef chuck cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides.

3. Stir in tomato paste, sugar, fish sauce, five-spice powder, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the lemongrass stalks for a fragrant aroma.

5. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

6. Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the stew and continue cooking until the vegetables are soft.

7. Adjust seasoning with more fish sauce, sugar, or black pepper to taste.

8. Once the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked, remove the lemongrass stalks.

9. Serve the traditional Vietnamese beef stew hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro and Thai basil.

10. Enjoy this delightful dish with a side of steamed rice or crusty baguette to soak up all the aromatic broth.

Experience the authentic flavors of Vietnam with this traditional beef stew recipe, a perfect blend of fragrant spices, tender beef, and hearty vegetables that will transport you to the bustling streets of Hanoi or Saigon with every savory bite.