Gỏi Bò, or Vietnamese Beef Salad, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Its delightful combination of thinly sliced, marinated beef, crisp vegetables, and exotic fruits creates a symphony of textures and flavors. The key to a truly exceptional Gỏi Bò lies in the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements, a delicate harmony achieved through a carefully crafted dressing. This salad is more than just a meal; it's an experience, a journey for the senses that transports you to the bustling streets of Vietnam. The fresh, herbaceous notes and the satisfying chew of the beef make it a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.
From the meticulous preparation of the beef to the artful arrangement of the colorful ingredients, each step contributes to the overall brilliance of this dish. Are you ready to embark on this culinary adventure and create your own stunning Gỏi Bò? Let's delve into the detailed, step-by-step instructions that will guide you in making this exquisite Vietnamese Beef Salad.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Bowl
- Blender
Ingredients
- Beef: 300g
- Mango
- Carrots
- Green Bananas
- Onions
- Star Fruit
- Soy Sauce
- Sugar
- Seasoning Powder
- MSG
- Perilla
- Cinnamon
- Chili
- Vinegar
- Garlic
- Cooking Oil
- Basil
- Lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Marinade
- Slice the beef for marinating.
- Marinate the beef with soy sauce, garlic, cooking oil, sugar, seasoning powder, and MSG for 30 minutes. Refrigerate after.
- Grate carrots and shred mango.
- Thinly slice onions and soak them in vinegar water for 10 minutes to reduce pungency.
Step 2. Cook the Beef and Prepare the Dressing
- Stir-fry the marinated beef over high heat for about 3 minutes until cooked.
- Let the beef cool.
- Blend lemon, chili, garlic, sugar, and MSG with boiled water. Add fish sauce and season to taste.
Step 3. Combine the Salad Ingredients
- Drain the onions.
- Combine the cooled beef, onions, and carrots.
- Add the star fruit and mango. Mix well.
- Add herbs such as basil and cinnamon, mix well.
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Add a little cooking oil when marinating meat to help it absorb spices faster.
- If using green mango from the market (sour), mix it with sugar before adding to the salad.
- If you like spicy food, add more chili peppers.
- Basil pairs well with this salad.
- If blending the fish sauce, blend the lemon separately to avoid splashing.
- Gas stoves produce better results for stir-frying than electric stoves.
- Eat the salad immediately after mixing to prevent the ingredients from softening.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 500-600
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-35g
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It's best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the vegetables and fruits from becoming soggy. The beef can be marinated ahead, though.
2. What can I substitute if I don't have star fruit?
You can substitute other fruits like grapes, pineapple chunks, or even bell peppers for a similar textural contrast and sweetness.
This vibrant Vietnamese Beef Salad is a testament to the beauty of fresh, flavorful ingredients and the art of balancing contrasting tastes. Enjoy the satisfying crunch, the sweet and savory notes, and the refreshing coolness of this delightful dish. With its easy-to-follow recipe, you can now bring a taste of Vietnam to your own table!