Name: Savory Shaking Beef: A Flavorful Vietnamese Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vietnamese
Ingredients: 1 pound Beef Ribeye or New York or Filet Mignon; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil; 2 tablespoons Dark Soy Sauce; 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce; 1 teaspoon Fish Sauce; 1 tablespoon Mirin; 1 teaspoon Sugar; 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil; 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar; 4 cups Watercress or Baby Greens; 1 medium Red Onion; 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes

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Shaking Beef is a vibrant Vietnamese dish that combines tender beef with crisp greens and a sweet-savory sauce, creating a delightful dining experience. This dish, also known as “Bo Luc Lac,” is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply looking for a unique dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Let’s dive into the enticing world of Shaking Beef and explore its flavors, ingredients, and preparation methods!

Why You’ll Love This Shaking Beef

This Shaking Beef recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a standout choice for any meal. First, it features high-quality beef, ensuring a rich and satisfying flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables like watercress and cherry tomatoes adds a vibrant crunch, making it not just tasty but also nutritious. Furthermore, this dish is versatile; you can serve it over rice or enjoy it as a salad. The balance of sweet and savory flavors in the marinade creates an unforgettable taste experience. With a quick cooking time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Finally, the elegant presentation makes it ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties!

Ingredients for Shaking Beef

Gather these items:

1 pound Beef Ribeye or New York or Filet Mignon
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
2 tablespoons Dark Soy Sauce
1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce
1 teaspoon Fish Sauce
1 tablespoon Mirin
1 teaspoon Sugar
1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar
4 cups Watercress or Baby Greens
1 medium Red Onion
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes

How to Make Shaking Beef Step-by-Step

Step 1: Wash the watercress or baby greens, slice the red onion and cherry tomatoes, and mix the sauce ingredients in a bowl for easy assembly later.
Step 2: Heat a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom. Season the beef right before frying. Cook for 3-4 minutes until a crust forms, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Return the pan to medium-low heat, add minced garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the prepared sauce, scraping up the fond to enhance flavor.
Step 4: Taste and adjust the sauce with rice vinegar if needed. Add the rested beef back to the pan and gently heat through.
Step 5: On a serving platter, layer the greens, then top with red onions and cherry tomatoes. Spoon the beef and sauce over the top. Serve with lime wedges.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Shaking Beef

Keep these in mind:

Opt for high-quality cuts for tenderness.
Use semi-coarsely ground black pepper for better flavor.
Choose Thai sweet soy for a less salty option.
Infuse a sweet and umami profile with oyster sauce.
Adjust acidity to taste with rice vinegar.
Don’t skip the resting time for the beef; it helps retain juices.

Best Ways to Serve Shaking Beef

There are many wonderful ways to enjoy your Shaking Beef. You can serve it over a bed of rice for a filling meal or alongside steamed vegetables for a lighter option. Another great idea is to pair it with a fresh salad, highlighting the crunchy watercress and juicy tomatoes. For those who love a bit of zest, add lime wedges to squeeze over the top right before eating. This enhances the flavors and adds a refreshing touch!

How to Store and Reheat Shaking Beef

To store leftover Shaking Beef, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent overcooking the beef. This method keeps the flavors intact and the texture tender, making your meal just as delicious as the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shaking Beef

What’s the secret to perfect Shaking Beef?

The secret lies in the marinade! Using a blend of sauces like dark soy, oyster, and fish sauce creates a deep flavor profile. Also, ensuring the beef is cooked quickly over high heat helps to achieve that perfect crust while keeping it tender on the inside.

Can I make Shaking Beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance and marinate the beef for a few hours or overnight for enhanced flavors. However, it’s best to cook the beef fresh to maintain its tenderness and juicy texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shaking Beef?

To avoid common mistakes, be sure not to overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef. This will cause the meat to steam rather than sear, resulting in less flavor. Also, let the beef rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations of Shaking Beef You Can Try

There are several delightful variations of Shaking Beef you can experiment with. For a spicy twist, add sliced jalapeños or chili flakes to the marinade. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh, using the same marinade for flavor. Other variations include adding different vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch. Each option brings a unique twist to this authentic Vietnamese dish!

Savory Shaking Beef: A Flavorful Vietnamese Delight - Shaking Beef - additional detail

For more tips on cooking beef, check out this guide on selecting the best cuts. If you’re interested in exploring more Vietnamese dishes, visit this collection of recipes. Additionally, learn about the health benefits of watercress here.