If you’re craving a dish that’s both savory and simple, Mongolian Beef Noodles are an excellent choice. This recipe combines tender flank steak, fresh vegetables, and wide rice noodles into a delicious meal. I’ll guide you through each step, sharing tips for perfecting flavor and texture. Get ready to whip up a comforting bowl that your whole family will love! Let’s dive into the easy recipe.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil creates a rich and savory sauce that perfectly complements the tender beef and crisp vegetables.
- Customizable: You can easily modify this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste, making it a versatile meal.
- Impressive Presentation: With vibrant colors from the vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it a great choice for entertaining.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Mongolian Beef Noodles
– 8 oz. wide rice noodles
– 1 lb. flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
– 1 cup snap peas
Mongolian Beef Noodles start with the right base. The wide rice noodles give this dish a hearty feel. Flank steak, sliced against the grain, ensures each bite is tender and juicy. Colorful bell peppers add crunch and flavor. Snap peas offer a fresh, crisp texture that brightens the dish.
Additional Seasonings and Garnishes
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Next, the sauce brings everything together. Soy sauce adds depth and umami. Brown sugar balances the saltiness with a touch of sweetness. Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor. Fresh garlic and ginger provide aromatic notes. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste! Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds for a delightful crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Noodles
To cook the rice noodles, follow the package instructions. Usually, you need to boil water and add the noodles. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until soft. Drain the noodles and set them aside. This step is quick and easy, and it sets the base for your dish.
Coating and Cooking the Beef
First, take your flank steak and slice it thinly against the grain. This helps make the beef tender. In a bowl, toss the beef slices with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This coating will give the beef a nice texture when cooked.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in a single layer. Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step is crucial to lock in the flavor. After cooking, take the beef out of the skillet and set it aside.
Stir-Frying Vegetables and Combining Ingredients
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Now, it’s time to add your vegetables! Toss in the sliced bell pepper, snap peas, green onion whites, minced garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry everything for about 2-3 minutes. You want them tender but still a bit crisp.
Now, return the cooked beef back to the skillet. Pour in ¼ cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Stir everything together for 1-2 minutes until heated through. The sauce will coat the beef and veggies, creating a tasty mix.
Final Touches before Serving
Gently fold the cooked rice noodles into the skillet. Make sure the noodles are fully coated with the sauce and mixed well with the beef and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
To serve, transfer the Mongolian Beef Noodles to a large dish. For a beautiful presentation, top with the reserved green onion tops and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Beef
How to choose the best flank steak:
Pick flank steak that is bright red and has some fat. The fat adds flavor and makes the beef juicy. Look for a piece that feels firm and has a nice grain pattern.
Tips for tenderizing meat with cornstarch:
Coating the beef in cornstarch makes it tender and helps it brown better. Toss the thinly sliced flank steak in a bowl with cornstarch until it is well-coated. Let it sit for a few minutes before cooking. This step is key for great texture.
Enhancing Flavor
Suggestions for additional spices or sauces:
You can try adding crushed red pepper for some heat. A dash of five-spice powder can give it more depth. If you love a sweeter flavor, add more brown sugar.
Adjusting sweetness and saltiness to taste:
Taste your sauce as you cook. If it’s too salty, add a bit more sugar or a splash of water. If it needs more salt, add a touch of soy sauce. Balance is what makes this dish shine.
Cooking Method Variations
Using a wok vs. skillet:
A wok heats up faster and cooks food evenly. If you have one, use it! A large skillet works too. Just make sure it is hot before adding your beef.
Alternative cooking methods (grilling, stir-frying):
You can grill the flank steak for a smoky flavor. Just marinate it first for added taste. Stir-frying is quick and keeps the veggies crisp. Experiment with different methods for fun twists!
Pro Tips
- Beef Tenderizing Tip: Tossing the beef in cornstarch not only helps tenderize it but also creates a nice crust when seared, enhancing the dish’s texture.
- Vegetable Crispness Tip: Stir-fry the vegetables on high heat for a shorter time to keep them tender yet crisp, preserving their color and nutrients.
- Noodle Coating Tip: Make sure to gently fold in the noodles at the end to avoid breaking them, ensuring every bite is full of flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestion Tip: For an appealing presentation, serve in large bowls and sprinkle sesame seeds and green onion tops for added color and crunch.
Variations
Vegetable Variations for Mongolian Beef Noodles
You can add many vegetables to your Mongolian beef noodles. Consider using:
– Broccoli florets
– Carrots, thinly sliced
– Baby corn
– Mushrooms, sliced
These veggies bring color and crunch. Choose seasonal ingredients for the best flavor. Visit your local market to find fresh produce. This makes your dish taste better and supports local farmers.
Protein Alternatives
If you want to switch proteins, chicken, tofu, or shrimp work well. Use boneless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips. Tofu gives a nice texture; just press it to remove water. For shrimp, use large, peeled ones.
Cooking times change with different proteins. Chicken and shrimp cook fast, about 2-3 minutes per side. Tofu takes a little longer, around 4-5 minutes until golden.
Gluten-Free or Low-Carb Options
To make this dish gluten-free, swap rice noodles for zucchini noodles or kelp noodles. Both are tasty and healthy.
For low-carb needs, you can also use cauliflower rice. Adjust the sauce by using tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free. This keeps your meal light and delicious.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Mongolian Beef Noodles fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place the noodles, beef, and veggies together. This helps keep the flavors intact. Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They should stay good for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, heat them on the stove. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep them moist. Stir often over medium heat until warm. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the noodles soggy.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze Mongolian Beef Noodles! It’s best to freeze them without the veggies. They may lose their crunch after thawing. Place the beef and noodles in freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Mongolian Beef Noodles?
Making Mongolian Beef Noodles is quick and easy. It takes about 30 minutes in total. You will spend 15 minutes prepping the ingredients. Cooking the dish takes another 15 minutes. This means you can enjoy a tasty meal in no time.
Can I prepare Mongolian Beef Noodles ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Mongolian Beef Noodles ahead of time. Cook the noodles and meat, then store them in separate containers. This way, they stay fresh. You can mix them later when you are ready to eat. Keep the sauce separate to avoid soggy noodles.
What dishes pair well with Mongolian Beef Noodles?
Mongolian Beef Noodles go well with several sides and drinks. Here are some great options:
– Sides: Steamed broccoli, stir-fried bok choy, or a fresh cucumber salad.
– Drinks: I suggest green tea or a light beer. Both can balance the flavors of the dish well.
These pairings will enhance your meal and make it even more enjoyable.
You now have all the tools to make delicious Mongolian Beef Noodles. From the key ingredients to the detailed cooking steps, you can create a dish your family will love. Remember to choose tender flank steak and season just right for the best flavor. Try different veggies or proteins to personalize your meal. With these tips, your cooking will shine. Enjoy your tasty creation and impress your friends at the dinner tabl
