Description:
This Sticky Beef Noodles recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal, combining tender beef, crisp-tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles all coated in a luscious, sticky sauce. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) rice noodles (or lo mein/udon noodles)
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 cups (120g) broccoli florets
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
For the Sticky Sauce:
- 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Preparation:
This recipe moves swiftly, so make sure everything is prepped and ready to go. Thinly slice the beef, chop the vegetables, and measure out all your sauce ingredients before you even turn on the stove.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you’re using rice noodles, lo mein, or udon, ensure they are cooked al dente – slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked noodles will become mushy when tossed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside. To prevent them from sticking together, you can toss them lightly with a drizzle of sesame oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef
In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced beef with cornstarch. The cornstarch coating helps to tenderize the beef, create a beautiful sear, and thicken the sauce. Ensure the beef is evenly coated, shaking off any excess cornstarch before cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. The high heat is crucial for achieving a good sear on the beef. Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the beef from browning properly. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned. The beef doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce and vegetables. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced red bell pepper and broccoli florets. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain some of their bite, rather than becoming completely soft. Add the green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 5: Make the Sticky Sauce
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the sticky sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar (or lime juice), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until all the ingredients are well combined and the honey/sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey or brown sugar. If you like more tang, add a touch more rice vinegar or lime juice.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and pour the sticky sauce over everything. Toss well to combine, ensuring the noodles and beef are thoroughly coated in the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the noodles and beef.
Step 7: Serve
Divide the noodles among bowls and garnish with extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Why you will love this recipe
This Sticky Beef Noodles recipe is a winner for so many reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a complex and delicious sauce that coats every strand of noodle and piece of beef. The red pepper flakes add a touch of heat, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this dish can be on the table in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Use different types of noodles, vegetables, or protein. Make it gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan with simple substitutions.
- Satisfying: This is a hearty and filling meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. The combination of protein, carbs, and vegetables provides a balanced and nutritious dinner.
- Budget-Friendly: Using ingredients that are readily available and often on hand, this recipe is kind to your wallet.
- Great for Leftovers: The flavors meld together even more as the dish sits, making leftovers a delicious lunch option the next day.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal. A drizzle of chili oil can also add an extra kick.
- Sides: Serve with a side of steamed bok choy, a simple green salad, or some crispy spring rolls.
- Beverages: Pair with a chilled glass of Riesling, a crisp lager, or a refreshing iced tea.
Tips:
- Beef Selection: Sirloin and flank steak are both good choices for this recipe, but you can also use ribeye or even ground beef if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Noodle Perfection: Don’t overcook the noodles! They should be slightly firm to the bite, as they will continue to cook when added to the sauce.
- Veggie Power: Feel free to swap out the red bell pepper and broccoli for other vegetables, such as snap peas, carrots, baby corn, or mushrooms.
- Spice it Up: If you like things spicy, add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or drizzle with chili oil before serving.
- Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few extra minutes to allow it to reduce.
- Prep Ahead: You can prep the vegetables and sauce ahead of time to save even more time on busy weeknights.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Approximate values per serving, may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
- Calories: 550-650
- Protein: 35-45g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion:
Sticky Beef Noodles is a recipe that delivers on flavor, convenience, and satisfaction. Its versatility allows for countless variations, ensuring that you can tailor it to your specific tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. Add it to your repertoire and enjoy a delicious and memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of noodle?
A: Absolutely! Rice noodles are a popular choice, but you can also use lo mein, udon, spaghetti, or any other type of noodle you enjoy. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Q2: I don’t have hoisin sauce. Can I substitute it?
A: Hoisin sauce adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce, but if you don’t have it on hand, you can try substituting it with a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and a touch of peanut butter.
Q3: Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the beef with tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms. Simply follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best served fresh, you can definitely make the components ahead of time. Cook the noodles and store them separately. Prepare the sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, cook the beef and vegetables, then combine everything together.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: While you can freeze leftovers, the texture of the noodles may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
