Oh, what a treat we have today! I can’t tell you how excited I am to share my recipe for Mongolian Beef and Noodles. You see, this dish has a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family dinners where the whole table was filled with laughter and good food. The flavors in this dish come together like a warm hug, and believe me, they’ll make you feel right at home. Now, let’s dive into the deliciousness!
This dish is all about that tender beef – you know, the kind that melts in your mouth – perfectly tossed with soft noodles and a mouth-watering sauce that has just the right sweetness and flavor. Picture this: a cold winter evening, the smell of ginger and garlic wafting through the kitchen… Does it get any better?
What’s in Mongolian Beef and Noodles?
Let’s break down the ingredients so you know exactly what you’re getting into:
Flat Rice Noodles: These silk-like noodles are perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. If you can’t find flat rice noodles, don’t worry; any noodle you love will work!
Beef Flank Steak: This cut of meat is super flavorful and gets nice and tender if sliced against the grain. Trust me, using a sharp knife to slice it thinly makes all the difference in texture.
Vegetable Oil: We’ll use this to sauté everything. Go for a neutral oil; I usually reach for canola or grapeseed oil.
Green Onions: The white and green parts add a lovely, mild onion flavor. Don’t skip the green tops; they finish off the dish beautifully.
Garlic: Because honestly, is there anything better than minced garlic cooking in hot oil? It really amps up the flavor!
Ginger: A little grated ginger goes a long way in giving this dish a fragrant warmth. It’s like a secret ingredient that transforms the meal.
Soy Sauce: This savory star brings that umami goodness we all crave! I use low-sodium soy sauce to keep things balanced.
Brown Sugar: It adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce, which complements the soy sauce beautifully. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!
Hoisin Sauce (optional): A splash of this adds even more complexity to the dish. It’s not necessary, but I recommend it if you have it on hand.
Corn Starch: This is the magic ingredient that gives that lovely glossy finish to the beef. Just coat the meat lightly before cooking and you’re set!
Sesame Oil: A little drizzle at the end gives a fantastic nutty flavor we all adore.
Sesame Seeds: These are for garnish. They not only look lovely but add a delightful crunch too!
Salt and Pepper: To taste, of course! Seasoning is key!
Is Mongolian Beef and Noodles Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health benefits! This dish strikes a balance; it’s tasty, hearty, and can be made healthier depending on how you approach the ingredients.
Beef Flank Steak: A great source of protein and iron, it helps build and repair tissues. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your intake.
Flat Rice Noodles: These provide carbs for energy, perfect for a filling meal! You could use whole grain noodles if you’re looking for a healthier twist.
Green Onions and Garlic: These are packed with antioxidants and are known for their various health benefits, including supporting the immune system and improving digestion.
Overall, this dish can be a wholesome treat if enjoyed in moderation. Pair it with a big side of veggies, and you’ve got yourself a nutritious meal!
Ingredients
– 8 oz flat rice noodles (or any preferred noodles)
– 1 lb beef flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon corn starch
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe serves about 4 people – perfect for a family night or a small gathering with friends!
How to Make Mongolian Beef and Noodles?
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to turn these ingredients into a mouth-watering dish:
1. Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside. Trust me, you want them al dente!
2. In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with corn starch, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This helps to create that sought-after crispy texture.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the beef in a single layer. Let it cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. It should be sizzling away! Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Now it’s time to add the flavor! In the same skillet, add the white parts of the green onions, the minced garlic, and the grated ginger. Stir-fry for about a minute until fragrant. Your kitchen should smell pretty amazing right now!
5. Pour in the soy sauce, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce (if using). Stir to combine and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the cooked beef back into the skillet and toss everything to coat in that delicious sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up a bit.
7. Finally, add those cooked noodles to the pan along with the sesame oil. Toss everything together until everything is well coated.
8. Serve immediately, garnishing with the green parts of the green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top. There you have it – deliciousness on a plate!
Serve It Up and Enjoy!
Now that you’ve crafted this delicious dish, I encourage you to take a moment to enjoy your masterpiece. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night. And hey, if you want to add some colorful steamed veggies like broccoli or bell peppers, go for it!
I really hope you give this Mongolian Beef and Noodles recipe a try. It might just become a new favorite in your household, just like it is in mine! Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with me; I’d love to hear how it turned out! Happy cooking!
