🇲🇾 Malaysia · Food
Tau Yu Bak (Braised Beef)
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇲🇾 MYA comforting soy-braised beef dish that uses aromatic spices to create a tender, flavorful meal. It is a home-cooked classic that pairs perfectly with warm white rice.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Sear the beef chunks in a hot pan with 2 tablespoons of oil until deep brown.
- 2
Remove the beef and in the same pan, sauté the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- 3
Add the star anise and cinnamon stick, stirring for 30 seconds to release their oils.
- 4
Return the beef to the pan and add water until just submerged.
- 5
Stir in the dark soy sauce and rock sugar, mixing gently to dissolve the sugar.
- 6
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly to simmer for 45 minutes.
- 7
Check occasionally to ensure the liquid hasn't evaporated; add a splash of water if needed.
- 8
Once the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is glossy, remove from heat and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What beef cut is best?+
Use a tough cut like brisket or shank, as the slow braising time makes it melt-in-the-mouth.
Can I replace rock sugar?+
You can use regular brown sugar, but rock sugar provides a cleaner, smoother sweetness.
Why use dark soy sauce?+
It provides the characteristic rich mahogany color and a deeper, caramelized savory flavor.
Is it better to cook ahead?+
Yes, like many braised dishes, the flavors deepen and become even better the next day.
🇲🇾 MYMundo Match
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