Mongolian Beef Noodle Stir-Fry

This Mongolian Beef Noodle Stir-Fry combines the rich flavors of hoisin and soy sauce with the heartiness of ground beef and the delightful texture of linguine noodles. It’s a savory dish that packs a flavorful punch, ideal for those evenings when you need a quick yet satisfying meal.

Perfect for both new cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts, this recipe ensures you can bring a touch of Asian-inspired cuisine right to your dining table. With its simple steps and common ingredients, it promises a minimal hassle but maximum flavor dinner option for any day of the week.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

    • 1 lb ground beef
    • 5 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1/3 cup brown sugar
    • 1/4 cup beef broth
    • 1/3 cup soy sauce
    • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 10 oz linguine noodles
    • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
    • 2 tablespoons water
    • 4 green onions, sliced for garnish

Directions:

    1. Cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
    3. Add minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    4. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir well to mix.
    5. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef and bring to a simmer.
    6. Mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the skillet to thicken the sauce. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is thickened and glossy.
    7. Toss the cooked linguine in the skillet with the beef and sauce until evenly coated.
    8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Kcal: 650 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Key Ingredients and Their Roles:

  • Ground Beef: Provides a high-quality protein source, making the dish hearty and filling.
  • Garlic: Adds a sharp, aromatic flavor that is foundational in many Asian dishes.
  • Brown Sugar: Offers a hint of sweetness to balance the savory and salty components of the sauce.
  • Soy Sauce & Hoisin Sauce: Create a deep, umami flavor profile that is characteristic of Mongolian beef.
  • Ginger and Black Pepper: These spices add warmth and a slight kick, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
  • Linguine Noodles: Serve as the base, their slightly chewy texture complements the tender beef and thick sauce perfectly.
  • Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy, appealing finish that clings to the noodles and beef.
  • Green Onions: Provide a burst of color and a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, savory flavors of the dish.

Nutritional Information: This dish is not only flavorful but also offers a good balance of macronutrients. The beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, while the noodles provide carbohydrates that make it a filling meal. The use of soy sauce and hoisin sauce contributes sodium, which should be considered if one is monitoring salt intake.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with a Side: Serve this stir-fry with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy to round out the meal.
  • Top with Extras: For extra texture and flavor, top the dish with sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
  • Alternative Noodles: You can easily substitute linguine with other noodles such as udon or rice noodles depending on your preference or dietary needs.

Cooking Tips:

  • For the Best Flavor: Allow the beef to brown nicely in the skillet before adding the garlic and sauce, as this enhances the flavor through caramelization.
  • Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch slurry according to your liking. Conversely, a bit more beef broth can be added for a thinner sauce.
  • Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time allows, marinate the ground beef in a mixture of soy sauce and hoisin sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking to deepen the flavors.

Ideal For: This dish is perfect for anyone who loves Asian-inspired meals and is looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option. It’s also a great choice for families, as it can be easily scaled up to serve more people and is generally well-liked by both adults and children.

With its combination of easy preparation and delicious taste, Mongolian Beef Noodle Stir-Fry is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.