Bò kho (Vietnamese beef stew) is a fragrant and flavorful dish that's perfect for hearty meals. Here's a recipe for making it at home:

Ingredients

• 1 kg beef chuck or brisket (cut into large cubes)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 large onion (chopped)

• 1 tablespoon ginger (finely chopped)

• 1 lemongrass stalk (cut into 3-inch pieces and bruised)

• 2 star anise

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 tablespoon five-spice powder

• 3 tablespoons fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 3 large carrots (cut into chunks)

• 4 cups beef broth or water

• Fresh cilantro or Thai basil (for garnish)

• French baguette or steamed rice (for serving)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef:

   • In a large bowl, mix the beef cubes with half of the minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and five-spice powder. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.

2. Cook the Beef:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the remaining minced garlic, chopped onion, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are translucent.

   • Add the marinated beef to the pot and brown all sides of the meat.

3. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a few more minutes.

4. Simmer the Stew:

   • Pour in the beef broth or water, making sure the beef is fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

5. Add Carrots:

   • About 30 minutes before the stew is done, add the carrot chunks to the pot. Continue to simmer until the carrots are tender.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with more fish sauce or sugar if needed.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the bò kho garnished with fresh cilantro or Thai basil. Enjoy it with a warm French baguette or steamed rice.