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Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms served in a bowl

Lemongrass Coconut Braised Beef with Mushrooms

A one-pot dish featuring tender beef braised in aromatic lemongrass and creamy coconut milk, combined with mushrooms for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Braising Liquid
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, trimmed and smashed
  • 1 can coconut milk (14 oz) Opt for full-fat for a creamier sauce
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce Adds depth and umami
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce For a savory kick
For the Beef
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1 ½ inch cubes Season generously with salt and pepper
For the Mushrooms
  • 8 oz shiitake mushrooms, trimmed and sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped finely
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated finely
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for sautéing
For Garnishing
  • fresh cilantro, chopped For a pop of freshness
  • lime wedges To serve, enhancing the dish with acidity

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
  2. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Watch closely to avoid burning the garlic.
  3. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the beef to the pot. Sear the meat for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
  4. Add the smashed lemongrass, coconut milk, fish sauce, and soy sauce to the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it braise for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The beef should be tender and easily shredded with a fork.
  6. In the last 20 minutes of cooking, add the shiitake mushrooms to the pot, allowing them to soften and absorb the delicious flavors.
  7. Once cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove the lemongrass stalks before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice towards the end of cooking for a bright finish. You can substitute the beef with chicken thighs for a lighter version or go vegetarian by using tofu.