Phá Lấu is a beloved Vietnamese street food dish made with a medley of flavorful offal (such as pork or beef intestines, stomach, and liver) simmered in a rich, aromatic coconut milk-based broth. Seasoned with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and five-spice powder, this hearty stew is typically enjoyed with crusty bread, noodles, or as a snack on its own. It’s a dish packed with bold, comforting flavors that highlight Vietnam’s culinary creativity.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
For the Offal:
- 1 lb (450 g) mixed offal (e.g., pork or beef intestines, stomach, liver)
- 2 tbsp white vinegar (for cleaning)
- 1 tbsp salt (for cleaning)
For the Stew:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 piece of ginger (1 inch), thinly sliced
- 2 star anise pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp five-spice powder
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk
- 2 cups (500 ml) water
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
To Serve:
- Fresh herbs (such as Thai basil or cilantro)
- Crusty bread, rice, or noodles
- Lime wedges
Directions:
Prepare the Offal:
- Thoroughly clean the offal by rubbing it with vinegar and salt. Rinse several times with water until clean. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Blanch the offal in boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Stew:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add garlic, shallots, and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the star anise, cinnamon stick, and five-spice powder, stirring briefly to toast the spices.
- Stir in the blanched offal and cook for 2–3 minutes, coating it in the aromatic mixture.
- Add fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, turmeric powder, coconut milk, and water. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 40–50 minutes, or until the offal is tender and the broth is rich and flavorful. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
- Ladle the hot Phá Lấu into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping, steamed rice, or noodles. Squeeze lime juice over the stew for a bright, tangy finish.
This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for adventurous eaters who want to explore the depth of Vietnamese cuisine!
