Learn how to make my grandma’s easy Asian braised beef with this step-by-step recipe. Tender beef chunks in a rich, flavorful broth make for the perfect comfort food
What is Asian Braised Beef?
Asian Braised Beef is inspired from Chinese Braised Beef, a popular dish known for its tender and melt-in-your-mouth beef chunks. The beef is typically seared and then slow-cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and other flavorful ingredients.
The beef is braised in a rich, savory broth with veggies like potatoes and carrots until super tender and flavorful.
Typically made with beef shank, short ribs, or beef roast, Asian braised beef is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for colder weather. It can be cooked on the stovetop, in the oven, or even in an instant pot for a quicker cooking time.
One of the key components of Asian Braised Beef is the aromatic flavor that comes from the combination of spices and seasonings used in the dish. Common ingredients include star anise, cinnamon, bay leaves and cloves, which infuse the meat with a rich and complex flavor profile.
Why you love this Asian braised beef recipe?
This braised beef has always been my favorite comfort food meal. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a restaurant-quality braised beef dish right in your own kitchen.
The braised beef dish in restaurant usually costs around $20–$30, so making the braised beef at home is money-saving, only around $10 😉
- Easy to make and only requires simple ingredients: garlic, onion, and tomato. No fancy and hard-to-find ingredients needed!
- Budget friendly: The dish is made from affordable beef cuts like beef chuck. Braising beef is the ideal cooking method to make the tough beef with a good amount of connective tissues become tender and flavorful
- Versatile dish: You can serve braised beef over steamed rice, noodles, bread, smashed potato or with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Asian braised beef variations
While all these dishes involve slow-cooking beef in a flavorful liquid, they each bring something unique to the table:
Chinese Braised Beef
Chinese braised beef is a flavorful dish that typically features beef cooked slowly in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and star anise. This combination of ingredients creates a deep, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile.
The soy sauce adds a rich umami taste, while the ginger and star anise bring aromatic warmth and complexity to the dish. Often, Chinese braised beef is served with rice or noodles, making it a comforting and hearty meal.
Korean Braised Beef Short Ribs with Daikon
Korean braised beef, known as “Galbijjim,” is a delicious and slightly different take on braised beef. This dish features short ribs that are slowly cooked with daikon (a type of radish), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes a touch of sweetness from ingredients like sugar or honey.
The addition of daikon not only adds a unique texture but also absorbs the savory and slightly sweet flavors of the braising liquid. The result is tender beef with a sauce that is both rich and subtly sweet, often enjoyed with a side of steamed rice and kimchi.
Vietnamese Beef Stew (Bò Kho)
Vietnamese beef stew, or “Bò Kho,” offers another delightful variation of braised beef. This dish is characterized by its use of aromatic spices such as lemongrass, star anise, and cinnamon, combined with tomatoes, coconut juice and fish sauce.
The tomatoes provide a tangy base, natural sweetness comes from the coconut juice, while the fish sauce adds a distinctive depth of flavor. Carrots and potatoes are commonly added to the stew, making it a complete and hearty meal.
Bò Kho is typically served with rice, baguettes, or noodles, allowing for versatility in how it can be enjoyed.
Learn how to make Vietnamese Beef Stew (Bò Kho recipe)
What beef cuts to use for braised beef?
Beef chuck, brisket, short ribs or beef shank are ideal for braising because they contain enough fat and connective tissue that break down during slow cooking, resulting in tender meat. These cuts are also more affordable, rich and flavorful.
- Beef Chuck: This cut comes from the shoulder area and has tons of flavor. It’s got some marbling which means it’s gonna be super juicy and tender after braising. It’s economical and full of beefy flavor.
- Brisket: This cut is perfect for braising because it’s tough initially, but when you cook it low and slow, it becomes melt-in-your-mouth goodness. It’s also fairly cheap and economical and packed with flavor.
- Short Ribs: These bad boys are packed with flavor and have that perfect meat-to-fat ratio that makes them ideal for braising. They tend to be more expensive, but it will become the highlight of your dinner party!
- Beef Shank. This cut is super versatile and great for braising because it’s got a good amount of connective tissue that breaks down and adds richness to your dish.
Tip: If you can get Costco beef, their chuck roast, brisket or short ribs are great for braising. Especially, Costco chuck roast is the cheapest beef cut you can find in Costco, a great deal with $5.99/ lbs. I usually pick the chuck roast to make braised beef or beef stew. (Yeah, I’m a Costco fan btw!)
Aromatic Spices for Asian Braised Beef
The secret to great Asian braised beef is in the spices and herbs. For Chinese beef stew, common spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves are used add warmth, fennel seeds and Sichuan peppercorns bring depth, although fresh ginger, garlic, and green onions add a zesty touch.
But for this easy braised beef recipe, making it approachable to everyone, I will keep it simple with the Bay leaves only. You can add other aromatic spices listed above to enhance the flavor to your liking. Fish sauce to add the umami and brown sugar balance the flavors. These ingredients make the dish savory, tangy, and sweet.
You can definitely customize the dish with spices, herbs and veggies as you like! That’s also the favor to make braised beef at home~
Cooking methods for braised beef
Braised beef or stew beef is all about slow cooking to make the meat tender and flavorful. There are several ways to braise beef, and each method has its own advantages
Instant Pot: Fast and convenient, great for busy weeknights.
Slow Cooker: Set it and forget it, perfect for tender meat with minimal effort.
Stovetop: Traditional method with great flavor control, ideal for leisurely cooking days.
Instant Pot braised beef (Pressure cooker method)
Using the Instant Pot, you can quickly braise beef by first searing it with the sauté function, then adding your braising liquid, aromatics, and vegetables.
Instant Pot: Pressure cook on high pressure for about 30-40 minutes, and allow a natural release for tender, flavorful meat. This method speeds up the cooking process while still achieving delicious results.
Slow cooker braised beef
In a slow cooker, sear your beef in a pan first to build flavor, then transfer it to the slow cooker with your liquid, aromatics, and vegetables.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender. This method is perfect for a hands-off approach, letting you come home to a ready-made meal.
Stovetop braised beef
For stovetop braising, sear the beef in a heavy pot or Dutch oven to develop deep flavors, then add your liquid, aromatics, and vegetables. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. This traditional method gives you great control over the cooking process and allows for flavor adjustments along the way.
Each method has its own benefits, so you can choose the one that best fits your schedule and cooking style. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop, braised beef is always a delicious and comforting meal.
How to serve Asian Braised Beef
Serve Asian braised beef over steamed jasmine rice or a bed of creamy mashed potatoes to absorb the rich, flavorful sauce. Alternatively, pair it with crusty bread baguettes for a satisfying combination of soft and crunchy textures.
Complement the meal with steamed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or green beans to add a fresh, nutritious contrast.
For a lighter option, serve the beef alongside a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. No matter how you serve it, Asian braised beef offers a versatile and delicious dining experience.
Ingredients
1 Lbs – 450gr Beef (I’m using Costco Chuck Roast)
Marinade: 1 Tbsp Garlic powder, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1 Tbsp oyster sauce, 1 Tbsp mirin, 1Tbsp cooking oil,
Veggies & Aromatics: 4 cloves of garlic, 1/2 large onion, 2 tomatoes, 2 carrots, potatoes, 2-3 Bay leaves
Seasoning: 1.5 Tbsp sugar, 2 Tbsp fish sauce / salt / beef or chicken bouillon (to taste)
Step-by-step Instructions
Braising beef can seem tough, but with the right steps, you can get tender meat and rich flavors. I’ll cover how to prep and brown the beef, and how to braise it perfectly.
Prepare the beef: Begin with a cut of beef that has lots of marbling, like chuck roast or short ribs. Remove any extra fat and dry the meat with paper towels. Cut the beef into 1-1.5 inch cubes. The bigger cube, the longer cooking time.
Marinate the beef: Marinate the beef chunks with garlic powder, mirin or sugar, oyster sauce, pepper, and cooking oil. Marinate in at least 15 minutes. This initial seasoning adds depth to the flavor profile right from the start.
Sauté the onions and garlic: Heat a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add oil and stir-fry the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, which builds the aromatic base of the dish.
Brown the Beef: Over high heat, add the beef in batches, browning all sides to lock in the juices.
Combine ingredients: Once the beef is browned, add the diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the tomato mixture. Once the tomatoes are soften, add the bay leaves or other spices (star anise, cinnamon, fennel seeds and Sichuan peppercorns) to your liking.
Season: Add in fish sauce or beef bouillon, salt and sugar to balance the taste.
Add veggies: Add cubed carrots and potatoes. Make sure they’re submerged in the broth soup. Add your braising liquid, like water, stock, wine, or coconut juice.
Simmer: Stir, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Thicken the soup (Optional): by using cornstarch slurry – Start by combining one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl, stir the mixture until it forms a thick paste with no lumps. Next, slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering soup, stirring continuously as you go.
Serve: Taste and season again to your liking. Serve over steamed rice, noodles, bread, smashed potato
Kitchen Notes
Braising is the key for making tough cuts into tender chunks of beef, mell-in-your-mouth and flavorful. The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavors get.
Browning the beef enhances the depth of flavor.
Slow cooking in a tomato-based sauce infuses the beef with rich, savory notes.
Onion, bay leaves, and other spices make the dish aromatic.
FAQ for Asian Braised Beef
What is braising?
Braising is a cooking method where beef is first seared at high heat, then simmered in a flavorful liquid at low heat until tender. This slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb the flavors of the liquid and become tender and juicy.
What is the difference between braising and stewing?
Braising uses larger pieces of meat and less liquid, covering about half to two-thirds of the meat. Stewing involves fully submerging smaller pieces of meat in liquid.
What is the best cut of beef for braising?
The best cuts of beef for braising are those with a higher collagen content, such as beef shank or chuck roast. These cuts become incredibly tender and flavorful when slow-cooked in a braising liquid.
What are some popular ingredients used in Asian braised beef dishes?
Asian braised beef dishes often include ingredients like soy sauce, star anise, sherry, shaoxing wine, and dark soy sauce. These ingredients contribute to the rich and umami flavors commonly found in Asian braised beef recipes.
How do you make braised beef tender?
Cook it slowly at a low temperature, allowing the collagen in the meat to break down and become tender. Using a slow-cooking method like braising ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful.
How long does it take to braise beef?
The cooking time for braised beef can vary depending on the cut of meat and cooking method. Generally, beef needs to braise for at least 1-3 hours to become tender. However, tougher cuts like short ribs or brisket may require longer cooking times.
Can you overcook braised beef?
Yes, it is possible to overcook braised beef, which can result in the meat becoming too soft or mushy. It’s important to check the meat periodically to ensure it is tender but not falling apart
Do you need to brown beef before braising?
Yes, browning the beef before braising enhances the flavor by creating a rich, caramelized crust on the meat. This step, known as the Maillard reaction, adds depth and complexity to the dish.
What temperature should you braise beef at?
Braise beef at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), to ensure the meat cooks slowly and evenly. This allows the collagen to break down, resulting in tender meat.
Can you braise beef in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker to braise beef. Simply sear the beef in a pan, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with your braising liquid and aromatics. Cook on low heat for several hours until the beef is tender.
How do you thicken the sauce for braised beef?
You can thicken the sauce by reducing it on the stovetop or by adding a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Another option is to blend some of the cooked vegetables into the sauce.
Can you braise beef without wine?
Yes, you can braise beef using beef broth, chicken broth, beer, vegetable stock, coconut juice instead of wine. Each liquid adds its unique flavor to the dish.
What herbs and spices are good for braised beef?
Thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and garlic are classic herbs and spices that enhance the flavor of braised beef. You can also experiment with other herbs like oregano, sage, or even a touch of cinnamon for a different twist.
How do you store leftover braised beef?
Store leftover braised beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
What vegetables go well with braised beef?
Carrots, onions, potatoes, taro and celery are traditional vegetables that complement braised beef. You can also add mushrooms, parsnips, or even root vegetables like turnips and rutabagas.
Can you freeze braised beef?
Yes, braised beef freezes well for up to 3 months. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
How do you reheat braised beef?
Reheat braised beef gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C). Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Is braised beef healthy?
Braised beef can be a healthy dish if made with lean cuts and minimal added fats. It’s a good source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet when served with vegetables and whole grains.
What is the best way to make braised beef in the oven?
To braise beef in the oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C), brown the beef on the stovetop, then transfer to a covered oven-safe dish with the braising liquid. Cook for 2-3 hours, checking periodically to ensure the meat is tender.
There you have it! Let’s try this Easy Asian Braised Beef recipe and let me know how it turns. The Asian braised beef is a simple, delicious dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious experience, making every dinner feel like a special occasion. With these steps and tips, you can make a flavorful and tender meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
