Description
This rich and fragrant lemongrass coconut braised beef is deeply satisfying and perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, trimmed and smashed
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Start by heating oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. I always take a moment here—when the oil shimmers, it feels like the beginning of something special.
- Add the beef chunks and sear them until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and gives the dish its rich foundation.
- Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant. This is when the kitchen starts to come alive—the aroma is warm, savory, and inviting.
- Add the smashed lemongrass stalks and let them release their citrusy oils. Then stir in the mushrooms, letting them soften and absorb all those flavors.
- Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the coconut milk and beef broth, then add soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir gently, making sure everything is well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1 to 2 hours. This slow cooking is where the magic happens—the beef becomes incredibly tender, and the sauce thickens into a silky, flavorful broth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Serve your lemongrass coconut braised beef hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. The first bite is always the best—rich, fragrant, and deeply satisfying.
Notes
- This dish is perfect for serving with rice or noodles.
- Adjust the salt according to your preference for taste.
- For a spicier version, add chili peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 100mg