Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles Recipe

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Introduction

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a savory and flavorful dish that combines tender ground beef with perfectly cooked egg noodles, fresh vegetables, and a rich, umami sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, offering a deliciously satisfying meal in just 35 minutes. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and ginger gives it a distinct taste that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Asian cuisine.

Overview of the Recipe

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is an easy-to-make, one-pan meal that brings together the best of stir-fry and noodle dishes. The ground beef is cooked until browned and then mixed with a variety of fresh vegetables, including onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers. The dish is finished with a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and ginger. The noodles are then tossed in the sauce, making each bite a perfect blend of meat, vegetables, and savory goodness.

History and Origin

Mongolian cuisine, traditionally, is centered around meats and dairy products, influenced by the nomadic lifestyle of the Mongolian people. However, the dish we know as “Mongolian Beef” in Western cuisine is more of a Chinese-American creation rather than an authentic Mongolian recipe. It is believed to have originated in Taiwanese restaurants and has become popular in Chinese-American cuisine. The dish typically features beef cooked with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, often served over rice or noodles. This recipe takes inspiration from those flavors and presents them in a noodle dish format, making it a convenient and hearty meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook Noodles

  1. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
  2. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare Beef

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef to the skillet.
  3. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
  4. If necessary, remove any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

  1. Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, and thinly sliced bell peppers to the skillet with the beef.
  2. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Make Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon grated ginger.
  2. Stir the mixture well and add it to the skillet.
  3. Pour in 1/2 cup water and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

  1. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
  2. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

  1. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet.
  2. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
  3. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
  4. Serve the dish hot.

Serving

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Each serving is a hearty portion, perfect for a satisfying dinner.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Consider serving it with:

  • A side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy.
  • A light salad with a ginger-sesame dressing to complement the flavors.
  • A refreshing beverage like iced green tea or a sparkling water with a hint of citrus.

Variations of the Recipe

There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:

  • Protein Variations: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Vegetable Additions: Add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or baby corn for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Spicy Kick: Incorporate a bit of chili sauce or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a spicier dish.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce, and substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free noodles.

Health Benefits

This dish provides a good balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Some of the health benefits include:

  • Protein: The ground beef provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
  • Vegetables: Bell peppers and mushrooms add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the dish.
  • Ginger and Garlic: Both are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save on prep work during busy weeknights.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of noodle? A: Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with rice noodles, udon noodles, or any other type of noodle you prefer.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Replace the ground beef with tofu or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Ensure the hoisin and soy sauces are also vegetarian-friendly.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, but you can freeze it if necessary. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of hoisin sauce? A: If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can use a mixture of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a bit of honey as a substitute.

Conclusion

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine to your table in just 35 minutes. With its savory sauce, tender beef, and fresh vegetables, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the original recipe or customize it with your preferred ingredients, this dish offers a delightful dining experience that is both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy the convenience and taste of this wonderful noodle dish any night of the week

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