Jeow Som and Jeow are necessary every time I eat a Lao steak with sticky rice. Both dips are very different and distinct: Jeow som is spicy and sweet and jeow bee is spicy and bitter. I love eating the dips and steak as a lettuce wrap.

What is jeow som?

Jeow som is a signature Lao dip that goes with so many things like steak, seafood, sticky rice, vegetables, and salads! It goes on everything. The dip is made with fish sauce, herbs, garlic, sugar, and peppers. I grew up always eating it with beef and sticky rice. I love the dip extra spicy since it cools with the sugar in it.

What is jeow bee?

Jeow bee is a unique Lao dip because it as a bitter and spicy taste. It is made from beef bile and tastes so good eaten with sticky rice and steaks. I always have this dip available when I’m eating the extra meat the next day from pho bones. Its probably my most favorite meal.

Tips & Tricks to make the best jeows for wagyu

Master these two jeows dips and you will be set for every Lao meal.

• I usually find beef bile in the frozen section of Southeast Asian markets.

• Find the freshest bird eye chilies to make great jeow som

• Always use a mortar and pestle to make these dips; it makes a big difference because you are smashing the ingredients instead of just blending.

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