If you’re craving a dish that combines bold flavors with comforting textures, look no further than Mongolian ground beef noodles. This recipe brings together tender beef, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce. Ideal for a weeknight dinner, this meal is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy cooks who still want to enjoy a delicious homemade dish.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 8 oz wide noodles
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (sliced)
– 1 cup green onions (chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp oyster sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 400 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This is based on standard ingredient values and can vary depending on specific brands and quantities used.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the wide noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Mix in soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for another minute.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix in chopped green onions.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use gluten-free noodles or spiralized vegetables for a lower-carb version.
Serving and Pairings
Mongolian ground beef noodles are delicious on their own but can be paired with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for added crunch and freshness.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure you cool it completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can make it tough; cook just until browned.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry; it helps thicken the sauce.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
- Adjust soy sauce to taste; too much can make the dish overly salty.
- Be sure to chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for efficiency.
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce for 30 minutes.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the dish.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins besides beef?
Yes, chicken, turkey, or even tofu can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly for different proteins.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce if needed.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the ingredients and store them separately until you are ready to serve. Just reheat them together.
What type of noodles are best for this recipe?
Wide egg noodles or udon noodles work best for their texture and ability to hold the sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili oil or flakes to increase the heat level as desired.
Conclusion
Mongolian ground beef noodles are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please your palate. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and flavorful enough to impress family and friends. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite vegetables and proteins!
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz wide noodles
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers sliced
- 1 cup green onions chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the wide noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Mix in soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for another minute.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix in chopped green onions.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
