Grilled Dried Beef

Directions

1. 1
   Cut the beef across the grain onto very thin 3 by 3 inch slices.
2. 2
   If you are using fresh lemon grass, discard the outer leaves and upper half of the stalk.
3. 3
   Cut into thin slices and finely chop.
4. 4
   If you are using dried lemon grass, soak in warm water for 1 hour.
5. 5
   Drain and finely chop.
6. 6
   Combine the chiles and sugar in a mortar and pestle and pound to a fine paste.
7. 7
   Add the chopped lemon grass, fish sauce and soy sauce and stir to blend.
8. 8
   (If using a blender, combine all of these and blend to a very fine paste.
9. 9
   ) Spread the paste over the beef pieces to coat both sides.
10. 10
    Let marinate for 30 minutes.
11. 11
    Spread out each slice of marinated beef on a large, flat wire rack or baking sheet.
12. 12
    Let stand in the sun until both sides are completely dried, about 12 hours.
13. 13
    Grill the beef over a medium charcoal fire or transfer the rack from the refrigerator to the middle of a preheated 400F (200C) oven and bake until brown and crisp, about 10 minutes.
14. 14
    Serve with glutinous rice.