Description of this recipe
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe combines tender ground beef with chewy noodles in a rich, savory-sweet sauce, capturing the essence of Mongolian cuisine in a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s a family-friendly dish that can be customized to your spice preference, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.
Why you will love this recipe
You’ll love this Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe because it delivers incredible flavor in under 30 minutes. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce creates a perfectly balanced sweet and savory profile that coats every strand of noodle and morsel of beef. The simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward cooking process make it an ideal choice for a hassle-free dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to use common pantry staples to create something extraordinary. The optional garnishes like sesame seeds and fried shallots add delightful texture and visual appeal, making each bite a culinary adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its ease and deliciousness.
Ingredients:
→ Noodle dish core
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 blend)
- 8 ounces wide noodles such as lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 4 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
→ Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water
→ Cooking and finishing
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
→ Optional garnishes
- Sesame seeds
- Fried shallots
- Lime wedges
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by preparing the noodles. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the wide noodles (lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander. To prevent them from sticking together, toss the drained noodles with a small amount of oil (such as vegetable or sesame oil) or a splash of the reserved cooking water. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the remaining components of the dish.
Step 2: Next, prepare the ground beef. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the ground beef to achieve a good sear. Add the ground beef to the skillet and use a spatula to break it into smaller crumbles. Cook the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until it is thoroughly browned and slightly crisp around the edges. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If there is excess fat in the skillet, carefully drain it off to prevent the dish from becoming greasy. Set the browned ground beef aside, keeping it warm if possible.
Step 3: Add aromatics. If you drained the ground beef, return the skillet to the stove. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the center of the skillet. Sauté the garlic and ginger for about 1 minute, stirring continuously, until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
Step 4: Craft the Mongolian Sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, water, cornstarch, and sriracha (or red pepper flakes). Whisk all ingredients together until the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Ensure there are no lumps of cornstarch, as these can cause the sauce to have an undesirable texture. Taste the sauce and adjust the amount of sriracha or red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness.
Step 5: Combine Everything. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the skillet with the cooked ground beef, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the ground beef evenly. The sauce should have a glossy appearance and cling to the beef.
Step 6: Add the Noodles. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss thoroughly, using tongs or a spatula, to ensure that all the noodles are evenly coated in the flavorful sauce. Continue to toss until the noodles are heated through and well combined with the beef and sauce.
Step 7: Finish and Garnish. Drizzle the sesame oil over the noodles and stir in most of the sliced green onions, reserving a portion for garnish. The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Step 8: Serve. Transfer the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles to serving bowls or plates. Garnish with the reserved sliced green onions, sesame seeds, fried shallots, and lime wedges, if desired. Serve the dish hot and enjoy!
COOKING Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main course for lunch or dinner.
- Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or Asian slaw for a complete meal.
- Offer additional toppings such as chopped peanuts, cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil.
Tips:
- Use a non-stick skillet or wok to prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha or red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with crumbled tofu or plant-based ground.
- Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Add a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice for extra tanginess.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Calories: Approximately 550-650 per serving Protein: 30-35g Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings a taste of Asian-inspired cuisine to your home kitchen. Its quick preparation time, customizable spice level, and easy-to-find ingredients make it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you crave a flavorful and comforting meal. The combination of tender ground beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, savory-sweet sauce is sure to please family and friends alike. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or add your own personal touches, this dish is a versatile and delicious addition to your cooking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering bowl of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles!
Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of noodle for this recipe?
A1: Absolutely! While the recipe suggests wide noodles like lo mein, rice noodles, or spaghetti, you can certainly use other types of noodles based on your preference and availability. Udon noodles, ramen noodles, or even egg noodles would work well. Just ensure that the noodles are cooked al dente to maintain a pleasant texture in the finished dish. Adjust cooking times according to the package instructions for your chosen noodle type.
Q2: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A2: If you enjoy a spicier dish, there are several ways to increase the heat level of the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles. You can add more sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture, start with a small amount and increase to taste. Alternatively, you can add a dash of chili oil or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Another option is to garnish the finished dish with sliced fresh chili peppers or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prepare certain components of this dish ahead of time to save time during the final cooking process. The sauce can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also cook the ground beef and store it separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to assemble the dish, simply reheat the ground beef, cook the noodles, and combine everything according to the recipe instructions. However, it’s best to cook the noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft or sticky.
Q4: What are some good substitutions for hoisin sauce?
A4: If you don’t have hoisin sauce on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use in this recipe. One option is to combine equal parts of soy sauce and peanut butter, then add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness. Another alternative is to use a mixture of soy sauce, molasses, and a small amount of garlic powder. Keep in mind that these substitutions may alter the flavor profile slightly, so adjust the other ingredients accordingly to achieve the desired taste.
Q5: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A5: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles to boost the nutritional value and add extra flavor and texture. Some vegetables that would work well in this dish include sliced bell peppers, broccoli florets, snap peas, shredded carrots, or sliced mushrooms. Simply stir-fry the vegetables in the skillet after cooking the ground beef, before adding the sauce and noodles. Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender-crisp, and adjust the cooking time as needed depending on the type of vegetables you use.
