Asian Spiced Beef Noodles

Description:

Asian Spiced Beef Noodles are a quick, flavorful dish packed with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a savory, spiced sauce that bursts with umami. This dish incorporates soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and slightly spicy flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a comforting meal, this recipe delivers bold Asian-inspired flavors with minimal effort.

Origin:

This dish draws inspiration from popular Asian noodle dishes like Chinese beef lo mein or Thai pad see ew, with a twist of aromatic spices commonly found in Southeast Asian cuisine. The combination of stir-fried noodles, beef, and bold sauces reflects the fusion of street food and comfort food traditions across Asia.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Noodles:

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: 1 lb (450 g), thinly sliced
• Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
• Cornstarch: 1 tbsp
• Rice noodles or lo mein noodles: 8 oz (225 g), cooked per package instructions

For the Sauce:

• Soy sauce: 3 tbsp
• Oyster sauce: 2 tbsp
• Hoisin sauce: 1 tbsp
• Sesame oil: 1 tsp
• Rice vinegar: 1 tbsp
• Brown sugar: 1 tbsp
• Sriracha or chili paste: 1 tsp (adjust to taste)

For the Stir-Fry:

• Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1 tbsp, grated
• Green onions: 2, sliced (white and green parts separated)
• Carrot: 1, julienned
• Red bell pepper: 1, thinly sliced
• Baby bok choy or spinach: 2 cups (optional)
• Crushed peanuts or sesame seeds: For garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

1. Prepare the Beef: Thinly slice the beef against the grain and place it in a bowl.
2. Marinate: Add soy sauce and cornstarch to the beef. Mix well and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes while preparing the other ingredients.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and Sriracha. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over high heat.
2. Cook the Beef: Add the marinated beef and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add Remaining Oil: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the same pan.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook Vegetables: Add the carrot, bell pepper, and bok choy (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Step 5: Combine

1. Add Noodles and Beef: Return the cooked beef to the pan, along with the cooked noodles.
2. Pour the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with the green parts of the onions, crushed peanuts, or sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

• Cut Beef Thinly: Slice the beef very thinly against the grain for tenderness. Partially freezing the beef for 10-15 minutes makes slicing easier.
• Customize Vegetables: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms.
• Control Spice: Adjust the level of Sriracha or chili paste to suit your spice preference.
• Noodles: If using rice noodles, rinse them with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking.

Recommendations:

• Pairing: Serve with a side of pickled cucumbers or Asian slaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Meal Prep: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Alternative Proteins: Swap beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for variation.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 28 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Sugar: 9 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sodium: 890 mg

Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying Asian Spiced Beef Noodles, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty, homemade meal!