Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef (stewing beef such as chuck or brisket works well), cut into 1-inch cube

• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola oil)

• 1 onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 2 tablespoon five-spice powder or Vietnamese beef stew seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Five-Spice Powder

• 2 tablespoon Chicken Broth Powder

• 1 teaspoon Chili flakes (optional)

• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

• 2 potatoes or some mini potatoes, cut into chunks

• Salt and pepper to taste ( or 1 teaspoon each )

• Fresh green onions or basil or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef:

Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium or high heat. Add onion and the beef cubes in batches and sear them until browned on all sides

2. Saute Aromatics:

In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Add all spices five-spices powder, chicken broth seasoning, salt & pepper. Then add and stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Stew:

Stir to coat the beef and aromatics. Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot ( Veggies can be added after beef is tender or before it depends on how you would like your stew). Pour in 1.5 liter water and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Simmer:

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.Let it simmer gently for about 1 hour until the beef is tender, stirring occasionally or 30 mins for an instant pot

Adjust Seasoning:

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve:

Serve the Vietnamese beef stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions if desired.It's often served with crusty bread, baguette, or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy your flavorful Vietnamese beef stew!