Vietnamese diced beef

Vietnamese Diced Beef, or 'Bò Lúc Lắc', features tender beef fillet marinated in a savory mix of oyster, soy, and fish sauces, infused with garlic and sesame oil. It's cooked quickly with onions and finished with a zesty lime-chili sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

12 Feb 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 260 min

Ingredients:

21 oz beef fillet
1/4 cup oyster sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp sesame oil
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tbsp sugar
1/2 red hot chili peppers
1 tbsp olive oil
2 onions

Vietnamese Diced Beef, also known as 'Bò Lúc Lắc,' is a classic Vietnamese dish known for its succulent, flavorful beef pieces seasoned with a harmonious blend of sauces and spices. This dish is not only straightforward to prepare but also offers a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Mix well to create the marinade.

2. Marinate the Beef:
- Add the diced beef fillet to the marinade. Toss the beef thoroughly to ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour for best results.

3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the lime juice, sugar, and finely chopped red hot chili pepper. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Set the sauce aside.

4. Cook the Onions:
- Heat 1/2 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion wedges and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still retain some crunch. Remove the onions from the pan and set them aside.

5. Cook the Beef:
- In the same pan, add the remaining 1/2 tbsp of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Sear the beef cubes on all sides until they are browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness (about 2-3 minutes per side for medium). Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to do this in batches.

6. Combine Beef and Onions:
- Once all the beef cubes are cooked, return the onions to the pan. Toss everything together for an additional minute until well combined and heated through.

7. Serve:
- Transfer the cooked diced beef and onions to a serving platter. Drizzle the lime-chili sauce over the top. Serve immediately with steamed rice, cooked vegetables, or a fresh salad.

By following this recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Vietnamese Diced Beef right at home. The combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice brings out an irresistible flavor that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Serve it over a bed of rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Vietnamese diced beef FAQ:

What is the best marinating time for the beef?

For optimal flavor, marinate the diced beef in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but up to an hour is ideal. This allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the sauces and spices.

How can I tell when the beef is cooked to my desired doneness?

Cook the beef cubes for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer if available; medium is around 145°F (63°C). Always ensure the beef is browned on all sides.

Can I store leftovers, and how should I do it?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to maintain texture and flavor when serving.

What type of beef fillet can I use for this recipe?

You can use any tender cut of beef fillet, such as sirloin or tenderloin. These cuts will provide the best texture and flavor for this dish.

What are some suggested substitutions for the sauces?

If you don't have oyster sauce, you can substitute with hoisin sauce for a slightly different flavor. For soy sauce, tamari can be used for a gluten-free option. Just keep in mind that substitutions may alter the overall taste.

Tips:

- Choose a high-quality beef fillet to ensure tenderness and optimal flavor.

- Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

- Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

- For an extra kick, add more chili peppers according to your spice tolerance.

- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the beef at its peak flavor and tenderness.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 250kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 0.88g
Sugar 7g
Fat 11g

Vietnamese diced beef