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🇻🇳 Vietnam · Food

Vietnamese Beef Stew

45 min
A great way to spend your free time
🔥 420 kcal
Hearty helping
🍽 4 servings
Great for the family

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Vietnamese Beef Stew🇻🇳 VN

A fragrant, slow-cooked beef stew infused with aromatic spices. It is rich, savory, and perfect when served with warm crusty bread.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Char the onion and ginger over an open flame until blackened to release their aromatics.

  • 2

    Cut the beef into 3cm cubes and marinate with fish sauce and sugar for 30 minutes.

  • 3

    Heat oil in a heavy pot and sear the beef until browned on all sides.

  • 4

    Add the charred onion and ginger along with star anise and cinnamon.

  • 5

    Cover with 1.5 liters of water and simmer on low for 90 minutes until the beef is tender.

  • 6

    Skim off any excess fat from the surface while the stew bubbles gently.

  • 7

    Taste the broth and adjust with extra fish sauce if needed.

  • 8

    Serve hot in deep bowls, ensuring a generous amount of tender beef and fragrant broth in every portion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vietnamese Beef Stew?+

Vietnamese Beef Stew is a braised meat dish from Vietnam featuring beef brisket simmered with aromatics like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. It is typically served as a main meal accompanied by bread, noodles, or rice.

What is Bo Kho?+

Bo Kho is a Vietnamese beef stew originating from Vietnam, typically prepared with beef brisket, star anise, cinnamon, and fish sauce. It is commonly served as a breakfast or lunch dish, accompanied by crusty bread, rice noodles, or steamed rice.

Can I use other cuts of beef?+

Yes, shank or chuck works well because they break down beautifully over long cooking times.

Is it spicy?+

Traditional Bo Kho has a mild spice profile, but you can add chili oil if you prefer heat.

What should I serve it with?+

Banh mi bread or thick rice noodles are the most traditional accompaniments.

How do I know the beef is done?+

The beef should be fork-tender and easily pull apart with minimal pressure.

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