Description
Hoisin Beef Noodles
Indulge in the savory goodness of Hoisin Beef Noodles – a dish inspired by Asian flavors that brings tender beef, fresh veggies, and noodles together in a sweet, slightly tangy hoisin sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or any time you crave a comforting, flavorful meal. Ready in just 30 minutes, this quick stir-fry is a family favorite!
500g beef (sirloin or flank)
400g rice noodles
4 tbsp hoisin sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp vegetable oil
4 green onions (chopped)
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 carrot (julienned)
Optional: sesame seeds, cilantro, chili flakes
Directions:
1. Marinate beef in hoisin, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
2. Cook noodles as per instructions.
3. Stir-fry veggies, then add beef.
4. Combine noodles, beef, and sauce.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 350 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice the beef thinly against the grain. Mince garlic, grate ginger, and chop all vegetables. Whisk together the hoisin sauce and soy sauce in a small bowl.
2. Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced beef in a bowl. Add half of the hoisin-soy sauce mixture, the minced garlic, and grated ginger. Toss to coat thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes while you prepare other components.
3. Cook Noodles: Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook the rice noodles according to package directions (typically 3-5 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a tiny bit of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Stir-Fry: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the bell pepper and carrot, stir-frying for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. Remove the vegetables and set aside. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the wok.
5. Cook Beef: Add the marinated beef to the hot wok in a single layer. Let it sear for 1 minute without moving, then stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until just cooked through.
6. Combine: Return the cooked vegetables to the wok with the beef. Add the cooked noodles and the remaining hoisin-soy sauce. Toss everything together over high heat for 1-2 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the noodles immediately while hot. Garnish generously with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro leaves, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a pinch of chili flakes for heat. For a complete meal, pair with a simple side like steamed edamame or a cucumber salad with rice vinegar.
How-to Summary
Thinly slice and marinate beef in hoisin, soy, garlic, and ginger. Cook rice noodles separately. Stir-fry vegetables, then sear the beef. Combine everything in the wok with the remaining sauce and toss until hot and coated. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even mushrooms work wonderfully. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
My noodles are sticky. How can I prevent this? Ensure you rinse the cooked noodles thoroughly in cold water and toss them with a teaspoon of neutral oil before adding to the stir-fry.
Is there a substitute for hoisin sauce? A mix of soy sauce, a touch of peanut butter, honey, and a dash of five-spice powder can create a similar savory-sweet profile in a pinch.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. However, you can prep the vegetables and marinate the beef up to a day in advance for faster assembly.
How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Wok: Cook the beef in batches if necessary to avoid steaming it, which prevents a good sear.
- Overcooking the Beef: Beef cooks quickly. Remove it from the heat as soon as it’s no longer pink to keep it tender.
- Using Soggy Noodles: Ensure noodles are well-drained and not overcooked, or they will become mushy in the stir-fry.
- Skipping the Marinade: The brief marinade is crucial for infusing the beef with flavor and tenderizing it.
Conclusion
This Hoisin Beef Noodles recipe is a perfect gateway to creating restaurant-quality Asian-inspired cuisine at home. With its balance of savory, sweet, and fresh elements, it delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently achieve a satisfying, quick meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!