Name: Scrumptious Mongolian Beef Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 2 tsp cornstarch; 8 oz lo mein noodles; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 3 green onions, sliced; 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp crushed peanuts (optional)

If you’re on the lookout for a scrumptious yet quick dinner idea, look no further than these tantalizing Mongolian Beef Noodles. This dish perfectly blends tender strips of beef with chewy lo mein noodles and vibrant bell peppers, all enveloped in a rich, garlicky soy-based sauce that packs a flavor punch. Whether you’re aiming for a weeknight dinner or just something comforting, this recipe shines, ensuring you experience the essence of takeout right in your kitchen.

The appeal of Mongolian Beef Noodles lies not only in their robust flavor but also in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together in around 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when you still want something fulfilling to eat. From the fragrant mix of garlic and ginger to the sweet notes of brown sugar, every bite transports you to a culinary delight that rivals your favorite restaurants. Perfect for food lovers looking for easy recipes, this dish will have you and your family coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef Noodles

Here are several irresistible reasons to try this dish:

Quick to Prepare: Ready in only 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: Enjoy a rich and savory sauce that enhances all ingredients.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe to fit your taste preferences with various veggies or proteins.
Hearty and Filling: A complete meal that satisfies without being overly heavy.
Easy Cleanup: One pan cooking means less time washing up!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to set up your kitchen efficiently. Gather all your ingredients beforehand, including flank steak, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, lo mein noodles, bell peppers, green onions, and sesame oil. Make sure your cooking space is clean, and set out a cutting board and a sharp knife for slicing the beef and vegetables.

For cooking, you’ll need a large wok or skillet that can accommodate all the ingredients comfortably. A good spatula or wooden spoon is also important for tossing the ingredients without damaging them. Having a bowl for marinating the meat will streamline the process, and ensure your beef absorbs maximum flavor. This preparation will provide you with a smooth cooking experience, turning your Mongolian Beef Noodles into an effortless delight.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Mongolian Beef Noodles:

1 lb flank steak
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
2 tsp cornstarch
8 oz lo mein noodles
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, sliced
1 tsp sesame oil
2 tbsp crushed peanuts (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This technique helps to break down the meat fibers, making it more tender when cooked. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and the cornstarch. Toss everything well, ensuring that the beef is nicely coated. Allow it to marinate for about 15 minutes—this step not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

While the beef marinates, cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Generally, this involves boiling the noodles in salted water for a few minutes until they are al dente. Once cooked, make sure to rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside. This step prevents the noodles from sticking together and helps them stay separate when combined with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil, enough to coat the base of the pan. When the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Stir-fry the beef until it is browned and cooked through, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Don’t forget to remove the beef from the pan and set it aside once done. This separation allows you to use the same pan for the vegetables, capturing all those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant; be careful not to burn them as this can lead to bitterness in your dish. Next, stir in the sliced red bell pepper and cook just until slightly tender, around 2-3 minutes, maintaining a bit of crunch.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of water along with another teaspoon of cornstarch. This mixture will create a deliciously thick sauce. Pour it into the pan with the garlic, ginger, and bell pepper, stirring constantly until it begins to thicken and bubble, which should take a minute or two.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, return the cooked beef to the pan, along with the prepared lo mein noodles. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the noodles and beef are well coated in the rich sauce. The meat and noodles absorbing those flavors gives the dish its depth and complexity.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once tossed well, remove the pan from heat. Garnish your Mongolian Beef Noodles with sliced green onions and optionally sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch and flavor. Serve hot, and prepare to satisfy your cravings!

Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste!

Protein: Substitute flank steak with chicken, pork, or tofu for a different flavor.
Vegetables: Add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrients and color.
Spices: Incorporate red pepper flakes for heat or additional spices like five-spice powder for more authentic flavors.

Cooking Notes

Be mindful not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough. Aim for a light sear.
If you don’t have lo mein noodles, you can use spaghetti or udon noodles in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meal further, consider pairing these Mongolian Beef Noodles with:

Spring rolls for an appetizer.
A refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the noodles.

Tips

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking for a smooth process.
Taste as you go! You may want a bit more soy sauce or sugar, based on your personal preference.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 900mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the flank steak with tofu or tempeh, and ensure that your sauces are free from animal products.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Mongolian Beef Noodles?

Yes! After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

How can I add more spice to the dish?

For those who love heat, consider adding chili oil or sriracha to the sauce, or mix in some jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables!

Conclusion

To sum it up, Mongolian Beef Noodles are more than just a meal; they are an experience to savors. Each bite encapsulates a delicious array of flavors that guarantees satisfaction, whether you’re dining solo or with family. This dish is quick to make and easily adaptable to suit a variety of tastes, making it a go-to in your recipe rotation. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or proteins to create your version of this delightful dish. Remember to share your thoughts, variations, or questions in the comments below; happy cooking!