Beef and Noodles

1 pound boneless steak, sliced into 2-inch strips
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 scallion, sliced
1 teaspoon finely minced lemongrass
2 tablespoons nuoc mam
½ teaspoon sugar
8 ounces rice vermicelli
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 onion, sliced into thin rings

Salad and Garnishes

2 cups fresh mung bean sprouts
2 cups shredded red or green lettuce leaves
1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and cut into julienne strips
1 carrot, peeled and shredded
handful each of fresh mint, coriander, and Asian basil
2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed
1 recipe Nuoc Cham (see below)

For the NUOC CHAM

1 bird’s eye chili
1 clove of garlic
2 tablespoons of sugar
¼ cup lime juice
¼ cup nuoc mam
¼ cup warm water
1 tablespoon thinly shredded carrot (optional)