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Vietnamese Shaking Beef

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Vietnamese Shaking Beef, or Bò Lúc Lắc, is a bold and savory stir-fry of marinated beef cubes seared to perfection with garlic, onions, and a tangy-sweet sauce. Served over greens or rice, it’s a fast, flavorful favorite.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 3 to 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Vietnamese
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Fresh watercress or mixed greens (optional, for serving)
  • Steamed jasmine rice (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and black pepper.
  2. Toss beef cubes in the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
  3. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until very hot. Add vegetable oil.
  4. Sear the beef in a single layer, shaking the pan to cook evenly. Work in batches if needed.
  5. Add sliced red onions and butter. Toss to coat and cook until onions soften and beef is glazed.
  6. Finish with a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice for brightness.
  7. Serve hot over watercress or mixed greens, or alongside steamed jasmine rice.

Notes

  • Marinate the beef overnight for deeper flavor, but no more than 24 hours.
  • Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or chilies for variation.
  • Lime juice offers citrusy notes, while rice vinegar adds sharper tang.
  • Use ribeye for a richer dish if desired.
  • Reheat quickly on the stove to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/vietnamese-shaking-beef/