🍜 Mongolian Noodles with Ground Beef
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
8 oz (225g) noodles (ramen, lo mein, spaghetti, or linguine)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Cook the Noodles:
Bring a pot of water to a boil.
Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Set aside.
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes).
Drain any excess fat.
Add Garlic and Sauce:
Add the minced garlic to the cooked beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the prepared sauce and stir well to coat the beef.
Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine with Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet.
Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
Garnish and Serve:
Plate the noodles and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Serve hot and enjoy!
🔄 Variations and Tips:
Noodle Alternatives: If ramen noodles aren’t available, you can substitute with lo mein, rice noodles, or even spaghetti.
Protein Options: For a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef.
Vegetable Add-ins: Enhance the dish by adding stir-fry vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat, or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. It’s a fantastic way to bring the flavors of Mongolian cuisine to your table with minimal effort.