Gỏi đu đủ khô bò, or Vietnamese Green Papaya Salad with Shredded Beef Jerky, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that perfectly balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes. This refreshing salad is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, offering a delightful contrast of textures – the crisp, slightly bitter papaya against the chewy beef jerky. The unique combination of fresh herbs, crunchy peanuts, and a tangy fish sauce dressing elevates this salad beyond the ordinary. It's a perfect appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal, bursting with the authentic tastes of Vietnam.
Beyond its deliciousness, Gỏi đu đủ khô bò is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks. The key lies in the proper preparation of the papaya and the balance of flavors in the dressing. To learn how to create this delectable salad from start to finish, follow our detailed step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Mandoline or shredder
- Bowl
- Pan or wok
- Baking tray
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- Green papaya
- Beef
- Garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Shallots or white part of spring onion: 1 tablespoon
- Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons + 2-3 tablespoons for sauce
- Fish sauce: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chicken stock: 1/2 teaspoon
- Vegetable oil: 1 teaspoon
- Water: 1/2 cup for sauce
- Shredded carrots
- Chopped mint
- Roasted peanuts
- Chili sauce
- Lime juice or vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Peel and shred the green papaya into thin strips. Soak in cold water.
- Cut beef into cubes and marinate with garlic, shallots (or spring onion), soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, pepper, and chicken stock. Marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Drain the papaya and place it on a plate. Add shredded carrots and chopped mint.
Step 2. Cook the Beef Jerky
- Stir-fry the marinated beef quickly for 2-3 minutes until firmer and no longer pink.
- Transfer the beef to a baking tray lined with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 150°C for 45 minutes, rotating every 10 minutes.
Step 3. Make the Dressing
- Combine 1/2 cup water and 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce. Simmer on low heat for 1-2 minutes.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve the Salad
- Add the dried beef, shredded beef jerky, roasted peanuts, and remaining ingredients.
- Serve with the sauce, chili sauce, and lime juice or vinegar.
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Frozen shredded papaya is a cheaper alternative.
- The dried beef will turn black during baking; this is normal.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-shredded green papaya?
While convenient, pre-shredded papaya can be less crisp. For the best texture, shred your own papaya just before making the salad.
2. What can I substitute for beef jerky if I don't have any?
You can substitute with cooked and shredded chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The key is to use a protein with a slightly chewy texture.
Enjoy your homemade Gỏi đu đủ khô bò! This vibrant salad is a testament to the delicious complexity of Vietnamese cuisine, offering a delightful symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. We hope you'll make this refreshing dish again and again.