Easy Mongolian Beef Noodles Quick and Tasty Meal

Craving a quick and tasty meal? Let’s dive into my Easy Mongolian Beef Noodles recipe! With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a flavorful dish that satisfies your hunger. Whether you’re a busy parent, student, or just want to impress friends, this recipe is your go-to. Get ready to enjoy savory beef, fresh veggies, and perfectly cooked noodles. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

– 8 oz (225g) rice noodles

– 1 lb (450g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 inch ginger, minced

– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

– 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced

– 4 green onions, chopped

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Suggested Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients makes your dish shine. You should use:

– Fresh ginger for a vibrant kick

– Fresh garlic for strong flavor

– Fresh green onions for a crunchy garnish

Common Substitute Ingredients

If you can’t find something, don’t worry! Here are some swaps:

– Use chicken or beef broth instead of soy sauce for less salt.

– Swap flank steak for sirloin or chicken for a lighter meal.

– Try sugar alternatives, like honey or agave, for the brown sugar.

– Use rice vinegar if you need a tangy flavor boost.

With these ingredients ready, you can create a tasty and quick Mongolian beef noodle dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Noodles

First, cook the rice noodles. Follow the package instructions carefully. Once cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water. This step stops them from sticking together. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the beef and veggies.

Marinating the Beef

Take your flank steak and slice it thinly against the grain. Place it in a bowl. Add two tablespoons of soy sauce and a pinch of pepper. Mix well to coat the meat. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes. This adds flavor and helps tenderize the beef.

Cooking the Beef and Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat two tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches. Cook each batch for about 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Cook them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir-fry these veggies for 4-5 minutes until they are tender.

Combining All Ingredients

Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the rice noodles, remaining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes. Make sure the beef and noodles are well coated in the sauce.

Final Steps and Serving Suggestions

Stir in chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve hot. For a great presentation, use deep bowls. Garnish with extra chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. A lime wedge on the side adds a fresh zing! Enjoy your easy Mongolian beef noodles!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Noodles

To get perfect rice noodles, follow these steps:

– Use Plenty of Water: Boil a large pot of water. This helps the noodles cook evenly.

– Time It Right: Cook the noodles just until they are al dente. This keeps them from getting mushy.

– Rinse with Cold Water: After cooking, drain and rinse the noodles. This stops the cooking process and keeps them from sticking.

Enhancing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the beef adds great taste. Here’s how:

– Simple Marinade: Use just soy sauce and pepper. This gives the beef flavor without overwhelming it.

– Marinate for 15 Minutes: Letting the beef sit in the marinade helps it soak in the flavors.

– Experiment with Ingredients: Try adding garlic or ginger to the marinade for extra depth.

Customizing Heat Levels

You can adjust the spice to suit your taste:

– Red Pepper Flakes: Start with a teaspoon. This gives a mild kick.

– Add More If Needed: If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes during cooking.

– Serve with Hot Sauce: For those who like even more heat, offer hot sauce on the side.

Each of these tips helps you create a tasty dish that you and your family will love. Enjoy your cooking!

Variations

Different Proteins to Use

You can swap the flank steak for other meats. Try chicken, pork, or shrimp. Each protein brings a unique taste. If you use chicken, slice it thinly. For shrimp, just peel and devein them. Remember to adjust cooking times. Chicken needs a bit longer, while shrimp cooks fast.

Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptation

To make this dish vegetarian, use tofu instead of beef. Firm tofu holds its shape well. Press it to remove extra water, then cube it. Sauté it until golden brown. For a vegan option, replace the sauces with plant-based versions. Look for soy sauce and hoisin sauce without animal products.

Recipe Tweaks for Dietary Needs

If you need gluten-free noodles, rice noodles work great. Just check the package for gluten-free labels. For lower sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. You can also skip the brown sugar for a healthier twist. Add more veggies like bok choy or broccoli for added nutrients.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After you enjoy your meal, let the leftovers cool down. Place the noodles and beef in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. Store them in the fridge for up to three days.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep the noodles moist. Stir gently until everything is warm. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots.

Freezing Tips

If you want to save some for later, freezing works well too. Pack the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container. It can stay good for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.

FAQs

What type of noodles can I use?

You can use rice noodles for this dish. They soak up flavors well. You can also try egg noodles or udon noodles. Just cook them as the package says.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Cook the beef and noodles, then cool them. Store in the fridge for up to two days. When ready, reheat in a pan. Add a splash of water to avoid sticking.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To adjust the spice level, use red pepper flakes. Add more for heat or less for mild. You can also skip them if you prefer no spice. Serve with chili sauce on the side for those who want more heat.

What dishes pair well with Mongolian Beef Noodles?

Mongolian Beef Noodles pair well with steamed broccoli or fried rice. You can also serve a simple cucumber salad for a fresh crunch. A side of spring rolls adds great texture and flavor too.

In this post, we covered the key ingredients for Mongolian Beef Noodles. We explored how to prepare noodles, marinate beef, and cook them with fresh veggies. You learned tips for perfecting your dish and variations for different diets. Proper storage and reheating methods were also shared.

Remember, cooking is all about experimenting. Have fun and make the recipe your ow