Beef Lok Lak
Shaking Beef
Beef Lok Lak, also known as 'shaking beef,' is a popular Cambodian dish featuring tender cubes of beef stir-fried with onions and a savory sauce. It's traditionally served on a bed of lettuce with sliced tomatoes and cucumber, accompanied by a zesty lime and pepper dipping sauce. The name 'lok lak' refers to the tossing and shaking motion used when cooking the beef.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef sirloin or tenderloin(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dark soy sauce(for color, optional)
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground Kampot pepper preferred)
- 1 tsp Cornstarch
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 Onion(sliced)
- 1 head Lettuce leaves(for serving)
- 2 Tomatoes(sliced, for serving)
- 0.5 Cucumber(sliced, for serving)
- 3 tbsp Lime juice(for dipping sauce)
- 1 tsp Salt(for dipping sauce)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the beef cubes with minced garlic, oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), sugar, black pepper, and cornstarch. Mix well to coat the beef. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or up to 1 hour.
💡 Tip: Using Kampot pepper, a Cambodian specialty, adds an authentic flavor. - 2
Prepare the dipping sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
- 3
Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for about 1-2 minutes per side, shaking the pan frequently, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove beef from the pan and set aside.
💡 Tip: High heat is crucial for searing the beef quickly without overcooking it. - 4
Stir-fry the onions: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the same pan. Add the sliced onions and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until translucent and slightly softened.
- 5
Combine and finish: Return the seared beef to the pan with the onions. Toss everything together for about 30 seconds to coat the beef in any rendered juices and onion flavor. Be careful not to overcook the beef.
- 6
Plate and serve: Arrange lettuce leaves on a serving platter or individual plates. Top with sliced tomatoes and cucumber. Place the cooked beef and onions in the center. Serve immediately with the lime and pepper dipping sauce and steamed jasmine rice.
💡 Tip: Some variations include a fried egg on top of the beef.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use a good quality, tender cut of beef for the best results.
- ✓Do not overcrowd the pan when searing the beef, as this will steam it instead of searing it.
- ✓The dipping sauce is essential for balancing the richness of the beef.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes include a splash of ketchup or tomato sauce in the stir-fry for a slightly sweeter sauce.
- Serve with French fries instead of rice for a popular variation.