Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce

Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce Recipe - Authentic Cambodian Cuisine

Region / culture: Cambodia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 4 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines tender beef with a tangy lime sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

History

This traditional Cambodian dish has been passed down through generations and is a popular choice for celebrations and gatherings. The marinade infuses the beef with a delicious blend of flavors, making it a favorite among Cambodian families.

Ingredients

1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp lime juice
1.5 tsp fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp water
2 tbsp mushroom soy sauce
2 tbsp canola oil
7 garlic cloves, crushed
1 green leaf lettuce
1.5 lb (680 g) sirloin, cut into 0.5 inch cubes

How to prepare

Combine sugar, 1 tsp of black pepper, soy sauce, and garlic. Stir well.
Add the beef and stir well to coat. Marinate for 20 minutes or longer.
Combine the remaining black pepper with lime juice and water. Place in a small serving bowl.
Saute the beef in hot oil for three to four minutes, until medium rare.
Arrange the beef on a platter lined with lettuce and serve with the lime sauce and toothpicks. Alternatively, serve as a main dish over jasmine rice.

Variations

You can use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers and onions for a more colorful dish.
Adjust the amount of black pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the beef for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.

- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.

- Saute the beef quickly over high heat to ensure it stays tender and juicy.

- Serve the beef with toothpicks for easy eating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce over jasmine rice for a complete meal. You can also serve it as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating.

Cooking Techniques

Saute the beef over high heat to quickly cook it while keeping it tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use lemon juice instead of lime juice if needed. You can also use vegetable oil instead of canola oil.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the beef ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the beef on a platter lined with lettuce for a beautiful presentation. Serve the lime sauce in a small bowl on the side.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce is a high-protein dish that is rich in iron and vitamin B12. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The tangy lime sauce complements the tender beef perfectly, making it a favorite among Cambodian families.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was during one of my many adventures in the bustling streets of Cambodia. I had always been fascinated by the rich culture and delicious cuisine of this beautiful country, and I was determined to learn as much as I could during my travels.

One warm evening, as I wandered through a local market in Siem Reap, the tantalizing aroma of grilled beef caught my attention. I followed my nose to a small food stall where a friendly Cambodian woman was grilling skewers of marinated beef over hot coals. The smell was intoxicating, and I knew I had to try it.

I approached the woman and asked her about the dish she was preparing. She smiled warmly and explained that it was Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce, a traditional recipe that had been passed down through generations in her family. Intrigued, I watched as she expertly seasoned the beef with a blend of fragrant spices and herbs before grilling it to perfection.

As I took my first bite of the tender, flavorful beef, I was transported to a world of exotic flavors and tantalizing aromas. The tangy lime sauce added a refreshing brightness to the dish, making it truly unforgettable. I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

I spent the next few days shadowing the Cambodian woman in her kitchen, watching as she prepared the marinated beef with precision and care. She shared with me the secret ingredients and techniques that made this dish so special, and I took careful notes, determined to recreate it back home.

When it was time for me to leave Cambodia and return to my own kitchen, the woman presented me with a handwritten recipe for Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce. It was a precious gift that I carried with me all the way back to my own home.

Over the years, I have perfected the art of making this dish, adapting it to suit my own tastes and preferences. I have shared it with family and friends, who always marvel at the exotic flavors and unique combination of ingredients.

To make Cambodian Marinated Beef with Lime Sauce, you will need:

- 1 pound of thinly sliced beef (such as flank steak)

- 1/4 cup of fish sauce

- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon of sugar

- 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

- 3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 shallot, finely chopped

- 1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped

- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

- Juice of 2 limes

- Fresh cilantro, for garnish

In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, black pepper, garlic, shallot, and lemongrass. Add the beef slices to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter.

Drizzle the lime juice over the cooked beef and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy the exotic flavors of Cambodia in the comfort of your own home.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. It is a true delight for the senses, and a wonderful way to experience the rich culinary traditions of Cambodia. Bon appétit!