Shaking Beef Recipe

Shaking Beef Recipe, or Bò Lúc Lắc, is a beloved Vietnamese dish known for its tender beef cubes, savory-sweet sauce, and vibrant presentation. The name comes from the cooking technique of shaking the pan to evenly sear the beef. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Shaking Beef Recipe Overview

• Servings: 2 people
• Estimated Cost: $20 USD
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Course: Main
• Cuisine: Vietnamese
• Equipment: Cast iron skillet or wok, mixing bowls, tongs

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb New York strip or beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder or minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning (optional)

For Cooking

• 3 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., grapeseed oil)
• 1 bunch green onions, bulbs cut into bite-sized pieces, greens for garnish
• 1 tablespoon butter

Honey Slurry

• 1.5 tablespoons water
• 0.5 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon honey

Optional Garnishes

• Fried garlic
• Salad greens (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss the beef cubes in the marinade and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare Honey Slurry: Mix water, cornstarch, and honey in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
3. Cook the Beef:
   • Heat a cast iron skillet or wok over high heat and add oil.
   • When the oil begins to smoke, add green onion bulbs and sauté for about 30 seconds.
   • Add marinated beef cubes in a single layer and sear for one minute without stirring.
   • Shake the pan to flip the beef cubes and cook for another minute.
   • Add minced garlic and stir briefly.
4. Finish with Sauce:
   • Lower heat and pour in the honey slurry along with butter.
   • Stir and cook until the beef reaches your desired doneness (medium rare is ideal).
5. Serve: Plate the beef with salad greens or steamed rice. Garnish with chopped green onion tops and fried garlic.

Calories Per Serving

Approximately 550 kcal per serving (excluding rice or salad).

Recipe Notes

• Best Cuts of Beef: Tenderloin offers maximum tenderness but is pricier. Ribeye provides rich flavor at a moderate cost. Sirloin is an affordable option with good tenderness.
• Pairings: Serve with steamed rice or a simple salad dressed with fried garlic vinaigrette for added texture and flavor.