The first time I tasted Bo Luc Lac, I was in a tiny Saigon trattoria with a friend urging me to “shake the meat.” I soon realized it wasn’t just a playful phrase, it was an invitation to savor every bite of this iconic Vietnamese dish. This Bo Luc Lac recipe combines succulent cubes of beef, a caramelized sear, and a zesty salad, and it’s nothing short of addictive.
This recipe fits beautifully into a cozy weeknight dinner, a festive date-night meal, or even a memorable potluck dish. Because the steak cooks quickly and the salad comes together in minutes, you get a bright, savory-meets-crisp meal without hours in the kitchen. Plus, the components are easy to prep ahead: marinate the beef an hour early, whip up the dressing, and finish everything as guests arrive or hunger strikes.
Trust me, once you try this Bò Lúc Lắc recipe, it’ll become part of your regular rotation. It’s bold, balanced, and full of texture. And best of all? You get to shake the steak on the stove, which means it’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat.
Table of contents
Why This Bò Lúc Lắc Recipe Works So Well
What makes this Bo Luc Lac recipe shine is its perfect touch of wok-charred crust, tender center, aromatic marinade, and crisp side salad. It’s the combination of those key elements that takes it from good to unforgettable.
1. Cubed Steak for Maximum Sear
Instead of slicing thin fillets, cubing a lean cut (like sirloin or ribeye) gives more surface area for caramelization. That way, each cube gets golden and crusty while staying juicy inside.
2. Marinade with Depth
This recipe uses soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, a touch of sugar, and plenty of garlic and black pepper. It infuses the beef with layers of umami, sweetness, and spice without overpowering the steak’s natural flavor.
3. High-Heat Cooking
Shaking beef requires scorching hot heat to develop char without stewing. I recommend using a cast-iron or heavy pan and cooking in small batches so the beef sizzles, not steams.
Recipe Card
Bo Luc Lac Recipe
4
servings25
minutes15
minutes620
kcalThis authentic Bo Luc Lac recipe, also known as “Vietnamese Shaking Beef,” paired with fragrant tomato rice, delivers a perfect balance of tender, savory beef and tangy, flavorful rice. A feast for your taste buds and an easy recipe for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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Ingredients
- For the Beef
500g beef tenderloin or sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp black pepper
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
- For the Tomato Rice
2 cups cooked jasmine rice
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish
Fresh cilantro or parsley
Sliced cucumbers
Lime wedges
Directions
- Marinate the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and minced garlic. Add the beef cubes and marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Cook the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear for 2-3 minutes without stirring, then shake the pan or stir to brown all sides evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste, butter, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice and mix until evenly coated with the tomato mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Plate the tomato rice and top with the beef. Garnish with fresh cilantro, cucumber slices, and lime wedges. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use high-quality beef for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the beef come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the beef; it should be tender and juicy.
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Tips for Perfect Bo Luc Lac with Tomato Rice
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Tenderloin or sirloin works best for this recipe due to its tenderness and quick cooking time.
- Marinate Like a Pro: For maximum flavor, let the beef marinate for at least 20 minutes. If possible, marinate overnight for deeper seasoning.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and herbs elevate the tomato rice, adding vibrant flavors to complement the beef.
- High Heat Cooking: Use a wok or heavy skillet over high heat to sear the beef quickly, locking in the juices and creating a caramelized crust.
Variants of This Bo Luc Lac Recipe
Spicy Bò Lúc Lắc
Mix in chili oil or Sriracha for heat. Garnish with chopped chili for extra fire. It gives the savory beef a lively kick that pairs beautifully with the citrus salad.
Herb-Infused Bò Lúc Lắc
Add chopped cilantro, mint, or Thai basil just before serving. The fresh herbs add a fragrant lift and contrast to the rich steak.
Bourbon Pepper Bò Lúc Lắc
Add a splash of bourbon to the pan after searing to deglaze. It brings a smoky-sweet depth reminiscent of sultry steakhouse flavors.
Vegan “Beef” Version
Use meaty tofu or mushroom-based vegan beef alternatives and marinate just like steak. Pan-sear until charred and serve with the same bright salad for an approachable plant-based swap.
Pairing Suggestions
- Sides: Pair with pickled vegetables, a fresh cucumber salad, or a light soup like Vietnamese Pho.
- Drinks: Complement with jasmine tea, lime soda, or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.
FAQ about Bo Luc Lac Recipe
Yes, while beef is traditional, you can substitute chicken or tofu for a different take on the dish.
Use gluten-free soy sauce and fish sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
You can marinate the beef and prepare the tomato rice in advance. Cook the beef fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Health Benefits of Bo Luc Lac with Tomato Rice
- Rich in Protein: The beef provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
- Boosts Immunity: Tomatoes and lime contribute vitamin C, which supports immune health.
- Energy-Packed Carbs: The rice offers a steady source of energy, perfect for an active day.
- Antioxidants Galore: The fresh vegetables and beef contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.
Nutrition Information
Bo Luc Lac with Tomato Rice is a balanced dish offering a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients:
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 kcal
- Protein: High, primarily from the beef
- Carbohydrates: Provided by the rice and vegetables
- Fats: Moderate, depending on the amount of oil used for cooking
- Vitamins: Vitamin C from tomatoes and lime, plus a variety of antioxidants
Let’s Wrap It Up: Final Thoughts on This Bo Luc Lac Recipe
There’s something irresistible about the sizzle of beef hitting a hot pan, the smell of garlic mingling with umami-rich sauces, and the bright punch of citrusy salad on the side. This Bò Lúc Lắc recipe brings all that together into a dish that feels elegant but is so easy to make at home.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with something a bit different, this recipe is a winner. It hits the balance between savory and fresh, quick and satisfying, hearty and light. It also adapts beautifully to your kitchen, whether you’re using a wok, cast-iron pan, or even a grill.
Looking for more flavor-packed dishes? Check out our Sweet Potato Cornbread Recipe for the perfect side dish to pair with your Bo Luc Lac.
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