Craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful meal that's also quick to make? Look no further! This easy beef ramen noodle recipe is your perfect solution for a delicious and satisfying dinner, even on busy weeknights. Forget those pricey takeout options – this homemade version is just as satisfying, if not more so, and completely customizable to your taste. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals made simple, proving that quick dinner ideas don't have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 8 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 package ramen noodles (discard the flavor packet)
- 1/2 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup bean sprouts (optional)
- 1 soft-boiled egg, halved (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your ingredients. Thinly slice the beef, grate the ginger, mince the garlic, and slice the green onions. If using, slice the mushrooms and prepare the bean sprouts.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat the sesame oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Build the Broth:
- In the same pot, add the grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and mirin. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Add Noodles & Beef:
- Add the ramen noodles to the simmering broth. Cook according to package directions, usually around 2-3 minutes, until tender. Stir in the cooked beef.
Finish & Serve:
- If using, add the shiitake mushrooms and bean sprouts during the last minute of cooking. Ladle the ramen into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and a soft-boiled egg half (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Ramen:
- Beef Choice: While sirloin works well, you can experiment with other thinly sliced beef cuts like ribeye or flank steak.
- Broth Boost: For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth or add a tablespoon of beef base to store-bought broth.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bok choy.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Ramen: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or gochujang for extra spice.
- Vegetarian Ramen: Omit the beef and add firm tofu, mushrooms, and other vegetables.
- Chicken Ramen: Substitute chicken broth and use shredded chicken instead of beef.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a single serving using 1/4 of the recipe and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Please use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
This easy beef ramen noodle recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and homemade cooking adventures. Its simplicity and customizability make it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal, satisfying cravings while remaining a healthy and delicious option. It’s truly one of the best recipes for a flavorful and comforting meal.