Are you craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner? Look no further than Beef Luc Lac, a beloved Vietnamese dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. This vibrant stir-fry boasts tender cubes of beef, crisp-fried onions, and a zesty, flavorful sauce that will have you licking your plate clean. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun weekend gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced and separated into rings
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Preparing the Beef:
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Add the beef cubes and toss to coat evenly.
- Dip each beef cube into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated. This helps create a wonderfully crispy exterior.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Making the Sauce and Stir-fry:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder until the sugar is dissolved. This simple sauce is the key to the dish's amazing flavor.
- Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the sliced bell pepper to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Serving your Beef Luc Lac:
- Stir in the crispy fried onions and chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately over a bed of hot cooked rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Luc Lac:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When frying the beef, work in batches to ensure even browning and cooking. Overcrowding will steam the beef instead of frying it.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more lime juice for extra tanginess or sugar for sweetness.
- Use good quality beef: The flavor of the beef will greatly impact the overall taste of the dish. Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for best results.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, carrots, or snap peas.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it a salad: Serve the Beef Luc Lac over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For a general idea, one serving might contain around 350-400 calories, 25-30g of protein, and 15-20g of fat.
This Beef Luc Lac recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, homemade cooking, creating a delicious dish quickly and efficiently. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties. Enjoy!