Thai Beef Pudding

Prep everything first: chop the aromatics, measure the lemongrass and lime elements, and pat the beef dry so it colours well.

Warm the olive oil in a large pan over a medium heat and soften the onion and garlic until sweet and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Turn up the heat and add the beef. Lower the heat, cover, and braise gently until everything is meltingly tender.

Stir in the red curry paste and the rest of the lemongrass and lime flavours, letting them cook out for a minute until fragrant.

Add the leek along with a splash of stock or water, then cover and cook gently until everything is tender and the sauce clings.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper and a little acid. It should taste bright, savoury and balanced.