If you have ever gone for dinner at Phnom Penh Restaurant in Vancouver, you have most likely heard of – even tasted their famous butter beef.
This dish has become a must-try for food enthusiasts and has garnered a loyal following.
But what exactly is butter beef, where does it come from, and how can you recreate this delectable dish at home?
Let’s dive into the origins, the name, and my very own recipe for this Cambodian specialty.
The origin of butter beef
Butter beef is a dish that finds its roots in Cambodian cuisine, though it has been popularized and perfected by restaurant Phnom Penh in Vancouver.
Cambodian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and unique combinations of ingredients, and butter beef is no exception. The dish is a testament to the culinary creativity that thrives in Cambodian kitchens, blending traditional techniques with modern twists.
The exact origins of this dish are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have been inspired by the French influence on Cambodian cuisine. During the French colonial period, many Western culinary techniques and ingredients were introduced to Cambodia, leading to a fusion of flavors and cooking styles.
Butter beef likely evolved from this cultural exchange, combining the richness of French cuisine with the vibrant flavors of Cambodian cooking.
Why is it called butter beef?
The name “butter beef” might be a bit misleading, as the dish doesn’t actually contain butter.
Instead, the name refers to the buttery texture of the beef. The cooked beef is thinly sliced and served in a soy sauce marinade, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
The marinade and cooking process give the beef a rich, buttery flavor that is both indulgent and satisfying.
How to make butter beef at home
While nothing can quite replicate the experience of dining at Phnom Penh Restaurant, you can try your hand at making butter beef at home.
Here is how I make and serve this dish at home for my family. And from now on you can recreate this Cambodian delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen!
True, there’s not a lot of complicated cooking involved.
I prefer roast beef from a local supermarket that is cooked rare and sliced thinly. I have made this butter beef with roast beef that I oven baked myself, however the tenderness and thinness of the supermarket roast beef is much better.
Ingredients for 4 people
- 1 lb (450 g) cold cooked roast beef, thinly sliced (cooked as you prefer, we like it rare)
- 4 tbsp medium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp palm sugar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove, mashed
- a fistful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tbsp deep fried garlic, for garnish (you can find that in any Asian supermarket)
- 2 tbsp deep fried onions or shallots (you can find that in any Asian supermarket as well)
- pepper
Instructions
Make the marinade: combine the soy sauce, fish sauce, palm sugar, lime juice and the mashed garlic. Season with a little pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
Right before serving, chop the fresh cilantro. This will add a burst of flavor and texture to the butter beef.
Assemble the dish. Arrange the cold sliced beef on a large serving platter or separate plates for everyone. Pour the soy sauce marinade in the middle. Sprinkle the chopped cilantro and fried garlic and onion (or shallots) on top of it.
Enjoy!
The allure of butter beef
Butter beef has become a beloved dish at Phnom Penh Restaurant for good reason.
Its unique combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout on the menu. The tender, marinated beef, the fresh cilantro, and the crispy fried garlic all come together to create a dish that is both comforting and exciting.
The dish’s popularity has also been fueled by word of mouth and social media.
Diners rave about the buttery texture and rich flavor, often sharing their experiences online.
This has helped to cement butter beef’s status as a must-try dish for anyone visiting Vancouver.
Bringing Cambodian cuisine to your kitchen
Making butter beef at home is a great and surprising way to explore Cambodian cuisine and bring a taste of Phnom Penh Restaurant to your own kitchen.
The dish is relatively simple to prepare, yet it delivers a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this butter beef is a dish that is sure to impress you, your family and your guests.
I often get the question when I am going to serve this cold butter beef for dinner again, especially in the summer.
In addition to butter beef, Cambodian cuisine offers a wealth of other delicious dishes to explore. From fragrant curries to fresh salads, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By experimenting with different recipes and ingredients, you can discover the rich culinary traditions of Cambodia and expand your cooking repertoire.
Try it!
Butter beef is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that captures the essence of Cambodian cuisine. Its origins, name and preparation all contribute to its unique appeal.
While dining at Phnom Penh Restaurant in Vancouver is a treat, making my butter beef at home allows you to enjoy this delicious dish anytime you like.
So why not give it a try and see for yourself why butter beef has become such a beloved specialty?
Have you ever tried butter beef at Phnom Penh Restaurant, or are you planning to try my recipe at home?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
5 other staples of Cambodian cuisine
Cambodian cuisine is rich and diverse.
Amok trey, a fragrant fish curry steamed in banana leaves, is a national favorite. Bai sach chrouk, or pork and rice, is a popular breakfast dish featuring marinated grilled pork served over rice.
Lok lak, a stir-fried beef dish with a tangy lime and pepper dipping sauce, is another classic. Prahok ktis, a savory dip made from fermented fish, is often enjoyed with fresh vegetables.
Finally, kuy teav, a flavorful noodle soup, is a common breakfast choice.
These dishes showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of Cambodian cuisine!