Name: Authentic Vietnamese Beef Stew (Bò Kho)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef shank or chuck, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and tied in a knot; 2-3 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2-3 star anise pods; 1 cinnamon stick; 4 cups beef broth or water; 2 large carrots, cut into chunks; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lime wedges for serving; Crusty bread or rice noodles, for serving

Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam? This Vietnamese beef stew, known as Bò Kho, is a warm and aromatic experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. With tender chunks of beef, fragrant spices, and a rich broth, it’s a comforting meal on any day.

This recipe is perfect for those cooler evenings when you crave something hearty and nourishing. Imagine tender beef simmered with lemongrass, star anise, and carrots; the flavors meld together to create a stew that’s both savory and slightly sweet, making each spoonful utterly satisfying.

Whether served with crusty bread or over rice noodles, this Bò Kho is a delightful dish that brings people together. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about sharing a meal filled with love and warmth.

Table of Contents

Exploring the Richness of Bò Kho

This Vietnamese beef stew, known as Bò Kho, is a delightful dish that embodies the heart of Vietnamese culinary traditions.

The combination of tender beef, spices, and vibrant vegetables creates a stew that warms both the body and soul.

Each ingredient plays a significant role, harmonizing to deliver both depth and comfort in every spoonful.

Ingredients That Make a Difference

The key to a winning Bò Kho lies in its ingredients.

Using high-quality beef, such as shank or chuck, ensures a tender texture after hours of simmering.

Aromatic spices like star anise and cinnamon add complexity, while fresh carrots provide a lovely sweetness that balances the savory broth.

Don’t forget the finishing touches: fresh cilantro and lime wedges enhance the stew’s vibrant flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.

The Cooking Process: A Dance of Flavors

Begin by browning the beef in a hot pot, allowing it to develop a rich crust that locks in flavor.

Then, sauté onions and garlic, which will form the aromatic base of your stew.

As the ingredients meld together, the fragrant spices release their oils, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Simmering the beef gently transforms it into a melt-in-your-mouth delight, while carrots added later infuse the broth with their natural sweetness.

The result is a hearty stew that brims with flavor and warmth.

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

When it’s time to serve, consider the perfect accompaniment.

Crusty bread is ideal for dipping into the rich, dark broth, creating a satisfying contrast with the tender beef and vegetables.

Alternatively, serving the stew over rice noodles makes for a delightful meal that showcases the stew’s depth.

Garnishing with fresh cilantro and lime not only brightens the presentation but elevates the overall flavor profile, inviting everyone to enjoy a taste of Vietnam.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Bò Kho is a versatile dish that shines on various occasions.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for friends or preparing for a family gathering, this stew is bound to impress.

Its heartiness makes it especially perfect for cooler days when you crave something comforting and warm.

Sharing this dish becomes an experience that fosters connections, allowing loved ones to come together over a delicious homemade meal.

Final Thoughts on Bò Kho

With its enticing aromas and vibrant presentation, Bò Kho is a dish that captivates the senses.

From the first simmer to the last spoonful, every aspect of this stew tells a story of tradition and love for food.

Prepare it for yourself and your loved ones, and enjoy a bowl of warmth that transports you to the bustling streets of Vietnam.

Classic Bò Kho Recipe for a Hearty Meal

A bowl of Vietnamese beef stew (Bò Kho) with beef, carrots, and cilantro, served with crusty bread.

This Vietnamese beef stew is a robust dish made with tender beef, aromatic spices like star anise and cinnamon, and vibrant vegetables such as carrots. The stew has a slightly sweet and fragrant quality, making it a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

2 pounds beef shank or chuck, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and tied in a knot
2-3 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2-3 star anise pods
1 cinnamon stick
4 cups beef broth or water
2 large carrots, cut into chunks
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lime wedges for serving
Crusty bread or rice noodles, for serving

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Add Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot along with lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, paprika, star anise, and cinnamon stick. Stir well.
Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is tender.
Add Carrots: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the carrots to the pot. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Remove lemongrass and spices, serve the stew hot garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Accompany with crusty bread or rice noodles.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Servings: 4-6 servings
Calories: 450kcal
Fat: 20g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Yield: 4-6