Are you ready to take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure through the streets of Vietnam? Look no further! With its rich flavors, bold spices, and diverse regional cuisines, Vietnamese cooking is a true culinary delight. And at the heart of it all are the many delicious beef dishes that showcase the country’s love for this popular protein.
From comforting noodle soups to flavorful stir-fries, and from hearty stews to savory sausages, Vietnam offers an astonishing array of beef recipes that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just discovering the wonders of Vietnamese cuisine, this article is your guide to exploring 18 mouthwatering beef dishes that are sure to become new favorites.
Vietnamese Beef Pho
Savor the rich flavors of this iconic Vietnamese noodle soup, featuring tender beef and fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or chuck)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or shank, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs: basil, mint, cilantro, and/or bean sprouts
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef bones, sliced beef, fish sauce, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour in beef broth and water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or overnight.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Strain the broth and discard bones and solids. Skim off excess fat.
5. Assemble bowls by placing cooked noodles, sliced beef, and herbs in each bowl. Ladle hot broth over the top.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours (or overnight) for the broth; 3-5 minutes to cook noodles
Bo Luc Lac (Shaking Beef)
This classic Vietnamese dish is a flavorful stir-fry of marinated beef, vegetables, and aromatics, served sizzling hot. Bo Luc Lac is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, often enjoyed with steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
3. Add the beef to the wok and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the onion and bell peppers to the wok. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup)
Bun Bo Hue is a popular Vietnamese noodle soup originating from Hue city, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick. This recipe brings the authentic taste of this beloved dish to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (or beef stock)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Banana blossoms or other garnishes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Simmer beef bones in broth for at least 2 hours, then strain.
2. In a large pot, combine sliced beef, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, chili flakes, and lime juice.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble soup bowls by placing cooked noodles, sliced beef, and banana blossoms (if using) in each bowl.
6. Ladle hot broth over the ingredients and garnish with cilantro. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including simmering time)
Vietnamese Beef Stew (Bo Kho)
A hearty and comforting Vietnamese stew that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and flavorful vegetables. This recipe is a perfect representation of the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 star anise
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, carrots, lemongrass, cinnamon stick, star anise, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Grilled Lemongrass Beef (Bo Nuong Xa)
This Vietnamese-inspired dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with the sweetness of lemongrass, the savory taste of beef, and the charred smokiness from grilling.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef strips, lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
3. Grill beef for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemongrass if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Beef and Watercress Soup (Canh Cua Thit Bo)
A hearty and refreshing Vietnamese-inspired soup that combines the richness of beef with the peppery flavor of watercress. This recipe is a perfect blend of East meets West, with a hint of Asian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups watercress leaves and stems
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and watercress; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Season with fish sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vietnamese Beef Curry (Ca Ri Bo)
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, made with tender beef, fragrant spices, and a rich coconut milk sauce. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups beef broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until beef is tender.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Eggplant Clay Pot (Thit Bo Kho Ca Tim)
A classic Vietnamese dish that combines the tender flavors of beef, eggplant, and spices in a rich clay pot. This hearty recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 medium eggplants, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large clay pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the eggplant, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggplant is tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth, water, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Vietnamese Beef Meatballs (Bo Vien)
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with these tender and aromatic beef meatballs, commonly served as an appetizer or snack in Vietnamese cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, ginger, fish sauce (if using), egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with vegetable oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stir-Fried Beef with Green Peppers (Bo Xao Ot Xanh)
This classic Vietnamese dish is a staple of home cooking, combining tender beef strips with crunchy green peppers and savory aromatics.
Ingredients:
– 250g beef strips (rare steak or sirloin)
– 2 large green peppers, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced green peppers and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Return the beef to the pan with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 1-2 minutes, until the flavors combine.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Bitter Melon Soup (Canh Kho Qua Nhoi Thit Bo)
This hearty Vietnamese soup is a staple in many households, combining the rich flavor of beef with the unique bitterness of bitter melon. A comforting and nourishing meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium bitter melons, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef, bitter melon, beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Vietnamese Beef Jerky (Thit Bo Kho)
A popular Vietnamese snack, Thit Bo Kho is a sweet and savory beef jerky that’s easy to make at home. This recipe uses tender chunks of beef, marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and spices before being dried to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as chuck or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef pieces, soy sauce, brown sugar, fish sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, black pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to its lowest temperature setting (usually around 150°F).
5. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
6. Place the beef on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Dry for 3-4 hours, or until the beef reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Beef and Pineapple Stir-Fry (Bo Xao Thom)
This classic Vietnamese dish is a flavorful and vibrant stir-fry that combines tender beef, juicy pineapple, and crunchy vegetables. Serve it over steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp oil. Add mixed vegetables, garlic, pineapple, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return beef to the wok and stir-fry everything together for another minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over steamed rice, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Beef Sausage (Gio Bo)
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of Vietnam with this simple and delicious recipe for Gio Bo, or Vietnamese beef sausage. This popular street food is made with a blend of pork and beef, aromatics, and spices, all wrapped in a crispy rice flour casing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons rice flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine beef, pork, onion, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired sausage size.
4. Shape each portion into a log and wrap in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
5. Fry the sausages in hot oil (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef and Bamboo Shoot Soup (Canh Mang Thit Bo)
This hearty Vietnamese soup is a staple of the country’s cuisine, made with tender beef, crunchy bamboo shoots, and a rich broth. With its bold flavors and comforting warmth, it’s a perfect dish for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups bamboo shoots, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bamboo shoots, broth, water, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Caramelized Ginger Beef (Bo Kho Gung)
Caramelized Ginger Beef (Bo Kho Gung)
A popular Vietnamese dish, Caramelized Ginger Beef is a rich and savory stir-fry that combines tender beef with sweet caramelized ginger and a hint of spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
- 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Instructions:
- Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
- Cook onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Add grated ginger and stir-fry for 1 minute.
- Return beef to the pan and add soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until caramelized, about 5-6 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Beef Pancake (Banh Xeo Thit Bo)
A popular Vietnamese street food, Banh Xeo Thit Bo is a savory and crispy pancake filled with shredded beef, onions, and bean sprouts. This recipe brings the flavors of Vietnam to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 pound shredded beef (rare steak or brisket)
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup mung bean sprouts
– Fresh cilantro leaves and sweet sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together rice flour, water, salt, and sugar until a smooth batter forms.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or a traditional Banh Xeo pan over medium-high heat.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the skillet and tilt to evenly coat the bottom.
4. Add shredded beef, onions, and bean sprouts on one half of the pancake.
5. Fold the other half of the pancake over the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the pancake is crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve with fresh cilantro leaves and sweet sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Beef and Morning Glory Stir-Fry (Bo Xao Rau Muong)
This Vietnamese-inspired dish is a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines tender beef, crunchy morning glories, and savory aromatics. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups morning glories (or substitute with Chinese broccoli or bok choy)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add morning glories to the pan; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Return beef to the pan; stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional minute, then serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Vietnam with these 18 authentic beef recipes. From comforting stews to spicy soups and sizzling stir-fries, this collection has something for every palate. Enjoy classic dishes like Vietnamese Beef Pho, Bo Luc Lac (Shaking Beef), and Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup). Try new flavors with Grilled Lemongrass Beef, Beef and Watercress Soup, and Caramelized Ginger Beef. These recipes showcase the best of Vietnamese cuisine, with its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and umami flavors. Perfect for cooking enthusiasts looking to explore international flavors at home.
