Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots

Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots Recipe from China and Korea

Region / culture: China, Korea | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the crisp texture of bamboo shoots, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. This dish is known for its aromatic spices and the slow-cooking process that tenderizes the beef to perfection. It's a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a special celebration.

History

The recipe for Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots has its roots in Asian cuisine, particularly within Chinese cooking traditions. It is a dish that has evolved over centuries, incorporating local ingredients and regional cooking techniques. The use of bamboo shoots in cooking dates back to ancient times in China, where they were prized for their nutritional benefits and unique flavor. Over time, this recipe has spread across Asia and has been adapted in various ways, reflecting the culinary diversity of the region.

Ingredients

3.5 oz (100 g) of young bamboo shoots, fresh or canned
0.5 oz (15 g) of rock sugar (or substitute)
2.25 lb (1 kg) of lean boneless beef
4 tbsp (60 ml) of vegetable oil
2 tsp of sliced ginger
2 tbsp of salted fermented soybean
2 tsp of chopped scallions
2 tsp of salt
10 whole Szechuan peppercorns
3.5 tbsp of rice wine
1 star anise

How to prepare

Soak the bamboo shoots in cold water and cut them into small pieces.
Blanch them quickly in boiling water, drain, and rinse them in cold water.
Set them aside.
Cut the beef into 1 inch (3 cm) chunks and place them in a pot with enough cold water to cover.
Bring it to a boil and skim off the foam.
Then add the ginger, scallion, peppercorns, and star anise.
Bring it back to a boil and add the sugar.
Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Turn the heat to low and let it simmer.
While the beef is cooking, heat the oil until the surface ripples.
Add the soybean paste and stir-fry until it turns slightly red.
Add it to the beef.
When the beef has cooked for about one hour, add the salt, rice wine, and the bamboo shoots.
Stew the beef for another hour until it becomes very tender, and serve.

Variations

There are several ways to vary this recipe to suit different tastes. For a spicier version, increase the amount of Szechuan peppercorns. Vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and nutrition. For a different protein option, chicken or pork can be substituted for the beef.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's important to blanch it first to remove any impurities. Slow cooking the beef on low heat allows it to absorb the flavors of the spices and soybean paste, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Using fresh bamboo shoots if available will add a crisp texture and a sweeter flavor compared to canned ones. Lastly, adjusting the amount of Szechuan peppercorns can control the level of spiciness to suit your preference.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple vegetable stir-fry or a fresh salad would complement the rich taste of the beef and bamboo shoots, making for a well-rounded meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this dish are blanching, slow simmering, and stir-frying. Blanching the beef and bamboo shoots helps to remove any bitterness and impurities. Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld together and tenderizes the beef. Stir-frying the soybean paste enhances its flavor, adding depth to the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If rock sugar is unavailable, brown sugar or honey can be used as a substitute. Fresh bamboo shoots can be replaced with canned ones if necessary, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly. For those who do not consume soy, miso paste or a combination of Worcestershire sauce and a little sugar can be used as a substitute for the fermented soybean paste.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors tend to deepen and improve with time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat until thoroughly warmed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots in a deep, decorative bowl to highlight the rich color and texture of the dish. Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for a fresh contrast to the savory beef. A side of jasmine rice or noodles can be served in a separate bowl or on the same plate for convenience.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs well with the flavors of this dish. For non-alcoholic options, green tea or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime complements the richness of the beef and the spiciness of the Szechuan peppercorns.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days. To reheat, place the beef and bamboo shoots in a saucepan over low heat, adding a little water or broth if necessary to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots contains approximately 300 to 400 calories, making it a moderately calorie-dense meal. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific cuts of beef used and the amount of oil added during cooking.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the bamboo shoots and the small amount of rock sugar used. Bamboo shoots are a great low-carb vegetable, containing only about 5 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams. The rock sugar contributes a minimal amount, making this dish suitable for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The primary source of fat in this recipe comes from the vegetable oil used for frying the soybean paste and the natural fats found in the beef. Lean boneless beef is used to keep the fat content lower, but the dish still provides a good amount of healthy fats that are essential for a balanced diet. The total fat content can be adjusted by varying the amount of oil used.

Proteins

Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots is an excellent source of high-quality protein, thanks to the generous amount of beef included in the recipe. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly those found in beef and bamboo shoots. Beef is a good source of B vitamins, iron, and zinc, while bamboo shoots provide vitamins A and E, calcium, and potassium. Together, they contribute to a nutritious meal that supports overall health.

Alergens

The main allergens to be aware of in this recipe are soy (from the fermented soybean paste) and gluten (if the soybean paste contains wheat). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should look for suitable substitutes or omit them if necessary.

Summary

Overall, Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines tender beef with crisp bamboo shoots in a rich, aromatic sauce. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. With its deep flavors and satisfying textures, it's sure to become a favorite in any culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my family. My grandmother was known for her delicious cooking, and she had a knack for creating mouthwatering dishes that always left us wanting more.

One day, as I was helping my grandmother in the kitchen, she pulled out an old, tattered recipe book from her collection. It was filled with handwritten notes and recipes that had been passed down through generations. As she flipped through the pages, she came across a recipe for Braised Beef with Bamboo Shoots that caught her eye.

"This is a special dish that I learned from a traveling chef many years ago," my grandmother explained. "It's a unique combination of flavors that is sure to tantalize your taste buds."

As she began to gather the ingredients and prepare the dish, she shared the story of how she had learned the recipe. It all started when a renowned chef from a distant village had visited our town and offered to teach a cooking class. My grandmother had jumped at the opportunity to learn from someone so skilled in the culinary arts.

The chef had taught her the art of braising beef to perfection, and the secret to achieving the perfect balance of flavors with bamboo shoots. It was a lesson that my grandmother never forgot, and she had since perfected the dish, adding her own personal touch to make it truly special.

As I watched her work her magic in the kitchen, I couldn't help but be in awe of her culinary skills. The way she seasoned the beef, sliced the bamboo shoots, and simmered everything together in a rich, savory sauce was truly a work of art.

Finally, after hours of preparation and cooking, the dish was ready to be served. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was intoxicating, and my mouth watered in anticipation of tasting the final result.

As we sat down to enjoy the meal, my grandmother watched with a smile as my family savored each bite. The tender beef melted in our mouths, and the bamboo shoots added a delightful crunch to every bite. The flavors were perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of seasoning to bring out the best in each ingredient.

As we finished our meal, my grandmother shared a few more stories about her adventures in the kitchen and the many recipes she had collected over the years. Each dish held a special place in her heart, and she took great pride in passing down her culinary knowledge to future generations.

I will always treasure the memories of that day in the kitchen with my grandmother, learning the art of braised beef with bamboo shoots. It was a lesson in love, tradition, and the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones we hold dear. And it is a recipe that I will cherish and pass down to my own grandchildren, so that they too can experience the magic of a homemade meal made with love.