Description
Spicy Beef Noodles
Ingredients:
250g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
200g rice noodles or egg noodles
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp chili paste (adjust for spice level)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
1 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and black pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Add beef slices and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until browned, then remove and set aside. In the same wok, sauté garlic, onion, and red bell pepper for 2 minutes. Return the beef to the wok, pour in the sauce mixture, and toss to combine. Add noodles and stir-fry for another 2 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro before serving.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Marinate: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, chili paste, and black pepper. Toss the beef slices in half of this sauce and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes while you prep other ingredients.
2. Cook Noodles: Cook your chosen noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop cooking, and toss with a few drops of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry in Stages: Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the marinated beef (reserving the marinade) and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until just browned. Remove to a plate. Add the garlic, onion, and bell pepper to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender.
4. Combine & Finish: Return the beef and any juices to the wok. Pour in the remaining sauce and the reserved marinade. Bring to a simmer. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until heated through and evenly coated. Finish by drizzling with the remaining sesame oil and tossing once more.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spicy beef noodles immediately while hot. For a complete meal, pair with a simple side like steamed gyoza or a crisp cucumber salad. To cool the palate, offer a glass of iced jasmine tea or a light lager. For extra texture and flavor, set out additional garnishes like lime wedges, sliced scallions, or crushed peanuts for guests to add at the table.
How-to Summary
Thinly slice beef and marinate briefly in a mix of soy, oyster, and hoisin sauces with chili paste. Cook noodles, then stir-fry beef and remove. Sauté garlic, onion, and bell pepper. Combine everything back in the wok with the sauce, add noodles, toss to coat, and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Chicken breast, shrimp, or firm tofu are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Simply omit the chili paste or reduce it to 1/4 teaspoon. You can also serve the chili paste on the side for individual customization.
My noodles turned out sticky. What went wrong? This often happens if noodles are overcooked or not rinsed after boiling. Ensure you cook to al dente and rinse with cold water to remove excess starch.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes. You can slice the beef and vegetables, and mix the sauce a day in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. Stir-frying is best done fresh.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce? For a vegetarian version, use mushroom stir-fry sauce. Alternatively, use an extra tablespoon of soy sauce mixed with a 1/2 teaspoon of sugar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Wok: Adding all ingredients at once steams them instead of searing. Cook in batches as instructed.
- Using Overcooked Noodles: They will become mushy during the final stir-fry. Aim for al dente.
- Not Prepping Everything First (Mise en Place): Stir-frying is fast. Have all ingredients measured, sliced, and within reach before you turn on the heat.
- Stirring Constantly: Allow the beef and vegetables to sit briefly in the hot wok to develop a flavorful sear.
Conclusion
This spicy beef noodle recipe is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and heat, delivering restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this versatile stir-fry. Feel free to experiment with vegetables and proteins to make it your own. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any weeknight dinner.