Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro
Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro is a delightful dish that infuses vibrant flavors and aromatic herbs into tender beef. It’s an exciting way to enjoy your favorite protein while exploring the culinary delights of Southeast Asia.
This recipe combines thinly sliced rump steak with the zesty notes of lemongrass and the fresh burst of cilantro, creating a harmonious and savory experience ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for your family or hosting friends, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings a beautiful presentation to the table. The marination process enhances the flavors, ensuring that each bite is truly unforgettable.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is all about balance—juicy beef, fragrant herbs, and a touch of umami from the fish sauce. The lemongrass adds a citrusy brightness that elevates the dish, while the cilantro contributes a fresh note that rounds out the flavors beautifully. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro can be served alongside rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a fun and interactive meal. Furthermore, the dish is quick to prepare yet feels indulgent, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Moreover, we know how busy life can be, and having a go-to recipe that’s both simple and satisfying is invaluable. This dish not only meets that criterion but also embodies the essence of fresh ingredients cooked to perfection. It’s a reminder that the best meals can come from straightforward techniques and a few quality components. By mastering this recipe, you’ll be able to bring the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine into your home easily.
How to make Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro
To embark on this culinary journey, start by preparing the ingredients. Slice the rump steak into thin pieces, ensuring they will absorb the marinades effectively. The thin slices also cook quickly, making dinner preparations a breeze. Next, slice the garlic and lemongrass—these aromatics will add depth and character to the dish.
Combine the sliced beef with the garlic, lemongrass, and nuoc mam in a bowl. This mixture is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together while marinating. Once everything is well coated, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least three hours, allowing the beef to soak in the delicious flavors.
When you’re ready to cook, heat a generous amount of olive oil in a pan over high heat. This step is crucial, as the high temperature will sear the beef, locking in its juices and achieving a nice browning. Add the marinated beef, including any leftover marinade, and stir-fry for about ten minutes. The goal is to cook until the beef reaches a tender texture and the sauce slightly thickens. Toss in the chopped cilantro at the end, giving it a fresh burst just before serving.
Ingredients
- 1⅓ lb (600 g) rump steak, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, sliced
- 4 stalks lemongrass, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (120 mL) nuoc mam (fish sauce)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
- Plastic wrap (to cover while marinating)
- Optional: chopped peanuts, extra sliced lemongrass for garnish
Directions
- Slice the rump steak into thin pieces.
- Slice the garlic and thinly slice the lemongrass.
- In a dish, combine beef, garlic, lemongrass, and fish sauce; mix well to coat.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan over high heat.
- Add the beef with its marinade and pan-fry on high heat for about 10 minutes until browned and the sauce reduces slightly.
- Toss with cilantro and serve, optionally topped with chopped peanuts and extra lemongrass/cilantro.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
How to serve Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro
When serving Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro, consider presenting it over a bed of jasmine or basmati rice, which beautifully absorbs the flavorful sauce. Alternatively, some might prefer wrapping the beef in fresh lettuce leaves, creating delightful bites that are both visually appealing and easy to eat. The juxtaposition of textures—from crunchy lettuce to tender beef—adds an exciting component to the meal.
For garnishing, a sprinkling of chopped peanuts adds crunch and richness, while additional slices of lemongrass and fresh cilantro elevate the presentation. A wedge of lime on the side can also offer a bright note, enhancing the flavors just before consumption. This flexibility in serving allows for a personalized touch to suit different preferences.
How to store Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro
To ensure the longevity of your flavorful creation, proper storage is essential. If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it should last for up to three days. When reheating, avoid overcooking, which can dry out the beef. Gently warm it in a pan on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture if needed.
If you prefer to prepare ahead of time, consider marinating the beef in advance and then cooking it fresh when ready to serve. This method saves you time while preserving the dish’s delightful flavors.
Tips to make Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro
To enhance your Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro, remember that quality ingredients make a significant difference. Choosing fresh lemongrass and vibrant cilantro directly impacts the dish’s flavors and aromas. When slicing the lemongrass, make sure to remove the tough outer layers and only use the tender part, which infuses a citrusy essence into the beef.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with the levels of nuoc mam to find your perfect balance of saltiness. You can also play with the marination time—the longer the beef marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. However, be cautious not to marinate it excessively, as this could alter the texture of the meat. Finally, consider topping the dish with a drizzle of sesame oil or a touch of chili flake if you prefer an extra kick.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fat: 24 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 1300 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, while rump steak is recommended, you can use other cuts like sirloin or flank steak for similar results.
Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute beef with tofu or seitan for a plant-based version that retains the delicious flavors.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: This recipe is not inherently spicy but can be adjusted by adding chili flakes or fresh chili to your liking.
Beef with Lemongrass and Cilantro
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1⅓ lb rump steak, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 4 stalks lemongrass, thinly sliced Remove the tough outer layers.
- ½ cup nuoc mam (fish sauce) Adjust to taste.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For frying.
- ½ bunch cilantro, roughly chopped For garnish.
- Plastic wrap To cover while marinating.
- Optional: chopped peanuts, extra sliced lemongrass for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the rump steak into thin pieces.
- Slice the garlic and thinly slice the lemongrass.
- In a dish, combine beef, garlic, lemongrass, and fish sauce; mix well to coat.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours.
Cooking
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan over high heat.
- Add the beef with its marinade and pan-fry on high heat for about 10 minutes until browned and the sauce reduces slightly.
- Toss with cilantro and serve, optionally topped with chopped peanuts and extra lemongrass/cilantro.
