#1 MOST UNDERRATED Saigon Street Food: Bò Kho Vietnamese Beef Stew in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

beef

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork

Chicken provides a leaner option while pork is often less expensive.

beef broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and can be homemade.

fish sauce

🥗Healthier: soy sauce

💰Cheaper: salt + vinegar

Soy sauce is a common substitute for those avoiding fish.

noodles

🥗Healthier: zucchini noodles

💰Cheaper: rice

Zucchini noodles reduce carbs while rice is a budget-friendly staple.

Cut beef into chunks and season with salt and pepper.

Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove beef and set aside; add onions, garlic, and ginger to the pot.

Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon stick; cook for 1 minute.

Return beef to the pot and add carrots, beef broth, and fish sauce.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.

Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.

Add sugar, lime juice, and chili peppers; stir to combine.

Serve hot over noodles, garnished with basil and cilantro.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens