Shaking Beef Recipe

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Introduction

Shaking beef, or B Lc Lc, is a beloved Vietnamese culinary treasure, celebrated for its savory and slightly sweet flavors and tender, bite-sized pieces of beef. Originating from Vietnamese-French fusion cuisine, the dish is prized for its simplicity and the speed with which it can be prepared. The appeal lies in the combination of high heat, a quick cooking time, and a flavorful marinade, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and sophisticated. Shaking beef recipe instructions are often sought after due to its adaptability to home kitchens and the delicious results it consistently delivers.

Ingredients

The key to exemplary shaking beef begins with quality ingredients. Heres a breakdown of the essentials and potential substitutions:

• Beef: 1 pound of beef tenderloin or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes. Tenderloin is preferred for its melt-in-your-mouth texture, but sirloin offers a more economical option.
• Marinade:
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium recommended). Tamari can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce. Hoisin sauce can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce. Use sparingly; its flavor is potent. A vegetarian substitute could be soy sauce with a pinch of seaweed flakes.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar. Brown sugar provides a richer flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or canola oil).
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced.
• Aromatics: 1 tablespoon butter, 1 red onion (cut into wedges), green bell pepper (cut into squares).
• Garnish: Fresh cilantro, sliced green onions.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful shaking beef. Begin by patting the cubed beef dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving a good sear. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, and black pepper. Add the beef to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Marinate the beef in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Longer marinating times can result in a more intense flavor, but avoid over-marinating, as the acids in the marinade can begin to break down the beef and affect its texture. While the beef is marinating, prepare the red onion and green bell pepper by cutting them into similarly sized wedges and squares, respectively. Have all other ingredients prepped and ready for cooking, as the cooking process is very quick.

Cooking Instructions

The key to successful shaking beef lies in high heat and a quick cooking time. Overcooking results in tough beef.

1. Heat: Place a large wok or heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat. Its important the pan is very hot before adding any ingredient.
2. Butter and Aromatics: Add butter to the wok. Once melted and shimmering, add the red onion and green bell pepper. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened but still crisp-tender. Remove the vegetables from the wok and set aside.
3. Sear the Beef: Increase the heat to high, if necessary. Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches. Sear the beef for approximately 1-2 minutes per side, shaking the pan frequently to ensure even cooking. The goal is to achieve a browned exterior while maintaining a rare to medium-rare interior.
4. Combine: Return the cooked vegetables to the wok. Toss everything together to combine. Cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Shaking beef is traditionally served over a bed of watercress or lettuce, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich beef. Steamed white rice is another classic accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the savory sauce. A dipping sauce of lime juice, salt, and pepper adds a bright, acidic element. Other serving suggestions include:

• Pairing with fried rice for a more substantial meal.
• Serving in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
• Garnishing with toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To ensure shaking beef success, keep these tips in mind:

• Dont overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the temperature and steams the beef instead of searing it.
• Use high heat: High heat is crucial for achieving a good sear and preventing the beef from becoming tough.
• Don’t overcook: Shaking beef is best served rare to medium-rare. Overcooking will result in tough, dry beef.
• Pat the beef dry: Removing excess moisture helps the beef to sear properly.
• Marinate adequately: Proper marinating is essential for flavor infusion and tenderizing the beef. However, avoid marinating for too long.
• Prepare everything in advance: The cooking process is very quick, so having all ingredients prepped and ready to go is essential.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning the shaking beef recipe unlocks a world of flavor and culinary versatility. Its combination of savory, sweet, and slightly tangy notes creates a truly memorable dining experience. With its relatively short preparation and cooking time, this dish is ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions. The recipe can be easily adjusted to suit individual tastes and preferences, making it a highly adaptable addition to any home cook’s repertoire. Embrace the art of B Lc Lc and elevate your cooking skills. Discover more exciting recipes and culinary adventures at foodrecipestory.com. Start cooking today!