Nom Bo Kho (Jerky beef salad)

“Nộm bò khô” has remained a quintessential dish in Vietnam, evolving into a beloved street food staple that frequently features at weddings and memorial ceremonies. The thrilling interplay of flavors—from the heat of chili and the sweetness of dried beef, to the crunch of julienned green papaya and the aromatic herbs, crowned with the earthy richness of roasted peanuts—exemplifies its widespread appeal.
Photo: savoryday.com 

At the heart of this dish is the dried beef, which is sliced into larger thin pieces and marinated overnight in a mixture of salt, sugar, garlic, oil, ginger, and chili before being dried, often via oven roasting. The dish also incorporates pickled green papaya and carrot, which are cut into fine julienne strips and allowed to drain, then tossed with coarsely chopped herbs for added flavor.

The dressing—crafted from a blend of sugar, vinegar, fish sauce, chili, soy sauce, and various other seasonings—captures attention as the secret ingredient that distinguishes each cook's version. Once the dressing is added to the mix, everything is tossed to combine, topped with roasted peanuts and dried beef, ready to serve. This vibrant dish, rich in taste and aroma, promises to delight the most discerning palates. An indulgent culinary experience awaits your taste buds!