Beef Grilled In La-Lot Leaves(Bo Goi La-Lot)
Juicy ground beef wrapped in fragrant la-lot leaves, grilled to smoky perfection. A flavorful Vietnamese-inspired dish perfect for gatherings or flavorful weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the la-lot or grape leaves in warm water to soften if needed.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, powdered lemongrass, minced garlic, sugar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions.
- Take one leaf, place a portion of the beef mixture onto the center of the leaf.
- Wrap the leaf around the beef, folding the sides to enclose the filling, forming a neat parcel.
- Thread each wrapped beef leaf onto a bamboo skewer, using 2-3 leaves per skewer if desired.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the beef-wrapped leaves for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through and slightly charred.
- Remove from grill and serve hot with dipping sauce or rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to the beef mixture. If la-lot leaves are unavailable, grape leaves can be a good substitute. Ensure the leaves are tender by soaking them in warm water. Adjust the sugar for a sweeter profile if desired. This recipe can also be made with ground pork for a different taste. Explore more delicious beef recipes for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef grilled in la-lot leaves hot, accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce such as fish sauce or a spicy chili dip. These wraps make a great appetizer or main dish, and pair nicely with jasmine rice or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Seaweed Soup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled beef-wrapped leaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the leaves soggy. Serve with fresh dipping sauce for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Grilled In La-Lot Leaves(Bo Goi La-Lot) contains roughly 2457 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 273g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground pork, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each will provide a unique flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?
The beef is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is no longer pink inside. You should also see a nice char on the outside. If using a skewer, check that the juices run clear when pierced.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture and wrap the leaves a few hours ahead of time. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill. This can save time and make for a quicker meal when guests arrive.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).