Instructions
Follow the steps and taste along the way.
Prepare the ingredients
Bring water for the noodles to a boil. Cut the beef across the grain into thin strips. Coarsely grate the carrot, cut the cucumber into thin strips, and chop the mint and coriander.
Mix the dressing
In a bowl, stir together the lime juice, fish sauce, sugar, and water until the sugar dissolves. The dressing should be distinctly sour and salty, with a hint of sweetness.
Cook the noodles
Pour freshly boiling water over the rice noodles and let them stand for 4 minutes, or according to the time indicated on the package. Drain and briefly rinse with lukewarm water so they do not stick together.
Quickly sear the beef
Heat a large pan over high heat. Add the oil and arrange the beef strips in a single layer; season with salt and sear for about 2 minutes, turning them once. The meat should be browned on the outside and still juicy inside.
Assemble and serve
Divide the noodles between two bowls. Add the beef, carrot, cucumber, and herbs. Pour over the prepared dressing and toss just before serving so the vegetables stay crunchy.
