Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or hassle? Then look no further! This Mongolian Beef with Noodles recipe delivers an explosion of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors in under 30 minutes. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also incredibly easy recipes, ideal for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. This healthy meal is packed with protein and flavor, making it a favorite among quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
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For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
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For the Noodles:
- 8 oz dried egg noodles or your favorite noodles
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce for noodles (optional)
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For Garnish (optional):
- Green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the flank steak with soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and black pepper. Mix well, ensuring the beef is evenly coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the beef marinates, cook the noodles according to package directions. Drain the noodles and toss them with 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and optional soy sauce to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, water, and sesame oil.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the beef and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce has thickened. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring every strand is coated in the delicious sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures the beef cooks quickly and evenly. You can ask your butcher to slice it for you.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will steam the beef instead of stir-frying it. Work in batches if needed.
- Adjust the spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Chicken Mongolian: Substitute chicken breast for the beef. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Shrimp Mongolian: Use shrimp instead of beef for a lighter option. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 50-60g
This Mongolian Beef with Noodles recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It's a testament to the fact that healthy meals can also be incredibly quick and easy to prepare. Enjoy!