When you’re diving into a fragrant bowl of Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles, consider some delightful additions that can elevate the experience. Here are a few ideas:
1. Steamed Vegetables: Bright green broccoli or crisp snow peas add a fresh crunch that pairs beautifully with the rich noodles.
2. Soft-Boiled Eggs: A perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg with a slightly runny yolk offers creaminess that melds wonderfully with the savory flavors.
3. Pickled Radishes: Their tartness cuts through the richness of the beef and adds a pop of color.
4. Sesame Oil Drizzle: A delicate drizzle just before serving enhances the nuttiness and rounds out the flavors.
5. Chili Oil: If you crave heat, splashing some chili oil over the top will liven up your dish.
Picture this: a rainy evening, the smell of garlic wafting through the air, and a bowl of steaming Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles is about to come together. The warmth of the broth and the tender beef create a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s not just a meal; it becomes a comforting experience that transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want something satisfying yet simple.
I learned to appreciate the magical combination of savory beef and delicate noodles during a trip to an underground ramen shop in Tokyo. The chef skillfully prepared the dishes while sharing her passion for the ingredients.
Inspired by that experience, I decided to recreate this at home, incorporating a classic twist with the flavors of Mongolian beef. Trust me; this bowl of goodness can easily become a staple in your home-cooked rotation.
What is Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles?
At its core, Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles is a delightful fusion dish. It blends the hearty components typically found in Mongolian beef—succulent strips of beef, a savory sauce, and vibrant onions—with the comforting slurp of ramen noodles.
The dish starts with marinated beef, cooked until tender, and then tossed with a sweet yet savory sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. The addition of ramen noodles creates a meal that feels both hearty and comforting, perfect for any occasion. As you dive into a bowl, each ingredient harmonizes, creating layers of flavor that tell a story of warmth and satisfaction.
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Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles
You might be wondering what makes this dish stand out. For starters, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. Love veggies? Toss in some bok choy or bell peppers. Prefer spice? A dash of chili flakes can amp things up.
Moreover, the recipe is simple enough that even a novice can pull it off. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals any restaurant bowl. There’s something gratifying about making such a beloved dish from scratch—knowing exactly what’s in each bite.
The balance of flavors complements one another splendidly. The sweetness from the brown sugar plays off the saltiness of the soy sauce, while the garlic adds an aromatic touch. The toasted sesame oil introduces a depth that’s hard to resist. Once you taste the tender noodles coated in this luscious sauce alongside the richly flavored beef, you’ll understand why this dish deserves a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles
Let’s gather our ingredients and prepare for a cooking adventure. Here’s what you need to create this delicious dish:
For the Sauce & Noodles:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Offers that savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.
- ½ cup water: Helps create the sauce base.
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with sweetness.
- 5 cloves garlic, finely minced: Adds aromatic richness.
- 2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced: A fresh, vibrant touch.
- 2 packets ramen noodles: Discard seasoning packets; they won’t be needed.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Enhances flavors with a nutty essence.
- Sesame seeds, for garnish: A sprinkle of crunch at the end.
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb striploin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: Tender cuts melt in your mouth.
- 1 egg white, lightly whisked: Helps the marinade adhere to the beef.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Tenderizes the meat, making each bite a pleasure.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Seasoning to enhance flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Aids in creating that wonderful velvety texture.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Balances and brightens the dish’s overall flavor.
For the Cornstarch Slurry:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: Helps mix the cornstarch smoothly.
Directions
Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide for making Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles.
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by placing the thinly sliced beef in a bowl. Add the egg white, baking soda, kosher salt, cornstarch, and rice vinegar to the beef.
Mix everything well until the beef is well-coated. This will not only tenderize the meat but also infuse it with flavor. Let it marinate for about 20 to 30 minutes. This can also be done ahead of time, which is excellent if you’re prepping for a dinner party.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This mixture is where the magic happens; it becomes the luscious sauce that coats the beef and noodles.
Step 3: Cook the Ramen Noodles
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around three to five minutes. Once they’re al dente, drain and set aside. Don’t forget to drizzle a bit of sesame oil on the noodles to keep them from sticking!
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry until brown and cooked through, about 3 to 5 minutes. You want a slight caramelization on the beef for added flavor.
Step 5: Combine the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This normally takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
Next, add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are coated in the sauce and mixed with the beef. You may need to add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. Feel free to sprinkle in the sliced green onions for added freshness.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer your Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles into bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds and additional green onions. Serve hot and enjoy each bite!
Notes
Here are some helpful tips to make your cooking experience smoother:
- Beef Thickness: Slice the beef against the grain as thinly as possible. This ensures tenderness.
- Sauce Consistency: Monitor the sauce as it cooks. You want it thick enough to coat the noodles but not overly sticky.
- Flavor Enhancements: If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the beef mixture.
- Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate mushrooms, bok choy, or bell peppers during the stir-fry for added nutrition.
- Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just reheat it gently before serving.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers or plan to make this ahead of time, here’s how to store it:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days.
- Freezing: While I typically prefer not to freeze noodle dishes, if you must, freeze the beef separately from the noodles. This prevents the noodles from becoming mushy upon reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat. Add a touch of water or broth to help revive the dish.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of your dish is essential. This recipe serves about four people. The estimated nutrition per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 480
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
These values may vary based on the exact ingredients used and where they come from.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ways to enhance your meal experience:
- Pair with a Green Salad: A simple cucumber and carrot salad with a squeeze of lime adds freshness.
- Accompany with Bao Buns: Soft bao filled with pickled vegetables make a lovely sidekick.
- Offer a Side of Kimchi: A touch of fermented flavor adds zing and probiotics to your meal.
- Finish with a Dessert: Light fruit sorbet cleanses the palate after the savory beef noodles.
- Serve with Jasmine Rice: If you prefer an additional carb, jasmine rice is a fantastic complement.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles?
Let’s talk about some alternatives if you want to switch things up:
- Chicken: Use thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs for a lighter protein option. It will absorb flavors wonderfully.
- Pork: Pork tenderloin or belly will lend a rich flavor. Just ensure it’s sliced thinly for quick cooking.
- Tofu: Firm tofu can substitute for beef if you want a vegetarian option. Press and cube it, marinating just like with the meat.
- Vegetable Broth: Replacing water with vegetable broth when cooking the noodles adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Egg Noodles: Use fresh egg noodles instead of ramen for a delightful texture.
Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles
Equipment
- Bowl
- pot
Ingredients
For the Sauce & Noodles:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Offers that savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.
- ½ cup water: Helps create the sauce base.
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar: Balances the saltiness with sweetness.
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced: Adds aromatic richness.
- 2 stalks green onion thinly sliced: A fresh, vibrant touch.
- 2 packets ramen noodles: Discard seasoning packets; they won’t be needed.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Enhances flavors with a nutty essence.
- Sesame seeds for garnish: A sprinkle of crunch at the end.
For the Beef Marinade:
- 1 lb striploin or flank steak thinly sliced against the grain: Tender cuts melt in your mouth.
- 1 egg white lightly whisked: Helps the marinade adhere to the beef.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Tenderizes the meat making each bite a pleasure.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Seasoning to enhance flavor.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Aids in creating that wonderful velvety texture.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Balances and brightens the dish’s overall flavor.
For the Cornstarch Slurry:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon water: Helps mix the cornstarch smoothly.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- Start by placing the thinly sliced beef in a bowl. Add the egg white, baking soda, kosher salt, cornstarch, and rice vinegar to the beef.
- Mix everything well until the beef is well-coated. This will not only tenderize the meat but also infuse it with flavor. Let it marinate for about 20 to 30 minutes. This can also be done ahead of time, which is excellent if you’re prepping for a dinner party.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and minced garlic. Stir until the sugar dissolves. This mixture is where the magic happens; it becomes the luscious sauce that coats the beef and noodles.
Step 3: Cook the Ramen Noodles
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the ramen noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually around three to five minutes. Once they’re al dente, drain and set aside. Don’t forget to drizzle a bit of sesame oil on the noodles to keep them from sticking!
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry until brown and cooked through, about 3 to 5 minutes. You want a slight caramelization on the beef for added flavor.
Step 5: Combine the Sauce
- Once the beef is cooked, pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. This normally takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 6: Add the Noodles
- Next, add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet. Carefully toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are coated in the sauce and mixed with the beef. You may need to add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much. Feel free to sprinkle in the sliced green onions for added freshness.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer your Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles into bowls. Garnish with sesame seeds and additional green onions. Serve hot and enjoy each bite!
Notes
- Beef Thickness: Slice the beef against the grain as thinly as possible. This ensures tenderness.
- Sauce Consistency: Monitor the sauce as it cooks. You want it thick enough to coat the noodles but not overly sticky.
- Flavor Enhancements: If you like it spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the beef mixture.
- Veggie Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate mushrooms, bok choy, or bell peppers during the stir-fry for added nutrition.
- Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just reheat it gently before serving.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use Instant Ramen Instead of Fresh Ramen?
Absolutely! Instant ramen works well. Just discard the seasoning packets, as they can be overly salty. Prepare the instant noodles as directed, and then follow the steps for the sauce and beef.
2. Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Check if your noodles are gluten-free as well.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?
You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or honey. Both options provide a lovely sweetness that complements the sauce.
4. How Do I Make This Dish Vegan?
Use plant-based protein like tempeh or seitan for the beef. Replace honey with maple syrup in the sauce. Substitute soy sauce with a vegan-friendly version.
5. How Long Does This Meal Take to Prepare?
Overall, you should expect to spend about 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. Including marinating time, it can stretch to an hour, but it’s well worth every minute.
6. Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Stir-fry a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots during the beef cooking step. The more greens, the better!
Conclusion
Mongolian Beef Ramen Noodles not only offer a delightful culinary experience but also allow for creativity in the kitchen. The balance of flavors and textures will leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for yourself, this dish promises comfort and joy.
So gather your ingredients, round up a good playlist, and enjoy the process of creating this wonderful dish. Remember that cooking isn’t just about the food; it’s about the memories created along the way. Embrace every moment, and you’ll find that this bowl of noodles is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Happy cooking!
