Sticky Beef Noodles

A Flavor-Packed, Satisfying Meal

Sticky beef noodles are a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, chewy noodles, and a sweet-savory sauce with a hint of spice. This meal is perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious yet easy to prepare. With a rich umami depth and a balance of textures, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: A mix of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey creates a rich and sticky coating on the beef.
• Customizable: You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• Great Texture: The combination of tender beef, chewy noodles, and crunchy vegetables makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225g) rice noodles or egg noodles
• 1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (to thicken sauce)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Marinate the Beef

2. In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with cornstarch. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This helps create a crispy texture when seared.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

4. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

5. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the pan. Sauté the garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and carrot for about 2 minutes until slightly tender.

Step 6: Combine Everything

6. Return the beef to the pan and pour in the sauce. Stir well and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

8. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different variation.
• Vegetables: Add broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy for extra nutrients.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free noodles.
• Extra Spice: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the beef and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Cook everything together when ready to eat.

What type of noodles work best?

Rice noodles, egg noodles, or even udon work well for this dish. Choose based on your preference.

Can I use pre-cooked beef?

Yes, but it won’t be as crispy. If using pre-cooked beef, add it towards the end to warm through.

How do I prevent my noodles from sticking together?

Rinse them with cold water after cooking and toss them with a bit of oil before adding to the pan.

Is this dish spicy?

It has mild heat from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking.

What can I serve with sticky beef noodles?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed dumplings, or miso soup.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended, as the noodles can become mushy when thawed. Freshly made is best.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use lean beef, reduce the amount of oil, and add more vegetables for a nutritious boost.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, skirt steak or ribeye can work as well, just ensure it’s thinly sliced against the grain.

How can I thicken the sauce more?

If the sauce is too thin, mix a little more cornstarch with water and stir it in while simmering.

Conclusion

Sticky beef noodles are a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors with a satisfying texture. Quick to make and highly customizable, this dish is ideal for busy nights when you need a meal that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality dinner at home!

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