Lau Bo (Vietnamese Beef Stew)
Tender beef braised in a warm, aromatic broth with star anise and lemongrass—a classic Vietnamese comfort stew. Served over rice with fresh herbs and lime.
- Total time
- 75 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 420
- Protein
- 48g
Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Pat beef dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high until shimmering, ~90 seconds.
Step 3
Working in batches, sear beef 2–3 minutes per side without moving until deep brown. Transfer to a plate.
Step 4
Add onion halves to the pot and char 3 minutes until edges blacken. Add garlic and lemongrass; stir 30 seconds.
Step 5
Pour in broth, fish sauce, and sugar. Return beef with any juices to the pot. Add star anise.
Step 6
Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium-low. Cover and simmer 60–75 minutes until beef is fork-tender.
Step 7
Skim any fat from the surface. Taste and adjust with fish sauce, sugar, or salt. Discard lemongrass and star anise.
Step 8
Ladle stew into bowls over steamed rice. Squeeze lime juice over each, top with cilantro and sliced scallions.
Tools you’ll need
- 12-inch heavy pot with lid
- paper towels
- wooden spoon
- ladle
- cutting board and knife
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