Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Step-by-step instructions

Cook the noodles: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain and set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Set this flavorful mixture aside, as it will enhance the beef beautifully.
Cook the ground beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef, cooking until it’s browned through. Remember to break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat afterward.
Add aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Allow them to cook for about a minute or until fragrant; this will infuse the beef with unbelievable flavors.
Combine sauce and beef: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet containing the beef. Stir well to combine everything and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Mix in the noodles: Toss in the cooked noodles, making sure they are well coated with the beef and sauce mixture. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through.
Serve: Transfer your flavorful dish to serving plates, garnishing it with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy hot for the best taste!

Best ways to enjoy it

To elevate your dining experience, try serving your Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles in deep bowls to capture the sauce. Pair it with a light side salad featuring cucumbers or a tangy pickled vegetable, which will add a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the dish. You could also present this recipe alongside steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.

Storage and reheating tips

Storing leftovers? Let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave it until warmed through, or heat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if it seems a bit dry.

Helpful cooking tips

Don’t rush the browning process: Allow the ground beef to brown well for added flavor. It’s well worth the extra minute.
Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning to fit your taste buds. Adding a little more brown sugar can counterbalance the saltiness if needed.
Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Have everything chopped and measured before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Creative twists

Want to switch things up? Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition. A splash of rice vinegar can also enhance the flavor, giving it a slight tang. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, swap the ground beef for finely chopped mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute for a similar consistency.

FAQs

How long does it take to make Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?

Typically, this dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes from start to finish!

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! While linguine or spaghetti works best, feel free to use ramen noodles or rice noodles for a unique texture.

What is hoisin sauce, and what can I substitute it with?

Hoisin sauce is a sweet and savory sauce commonly used in Asian cuisine. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute it with a mixture of soy sauce and a little sugar, although the flavor will differ.