Step-by-step instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ground ginger, cooking for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the low-sodium soy sauce, then add brown sugar, optional red pepper flakes, and the cornstarch mixed with water. Allow to simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing thoroughly until they are completely coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat everything through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving immediately.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles can be a chance to flex your culinary creativity! For a casual family dinner, serve them straight from the skillet with chopsticks for a fun presentation. If you’re feeling fancy, plate them in bowls with a drizzle of extra soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Pair them with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a light cucumber salad to add freshness to your meal.
How to store
To keep your Mongolian noodles fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to warm them on the stove with a splash of water to prevent sticking and maintain moisture. For longer storage, these noodles can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing in a freezer-safe bag.
Helpful cooking tips
- To save time, use pre-minced garlic and ginger from the store.
- Browning the beef well adds depth of flavor—don’t skip this step!
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference.
Creative twists
Why not experiment with the flavors? Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a health boost. For a twist, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based protein to cater to dietary preferences. You can even introduce unique sauces or toppings, such as a drizzle of hoisin sauce or additional garnishes like chopped cilantro or peanuts.
FAQs
What is the prep time for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles?
The preparation and cooking time for these noodles is approximately 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Absolutely! This dish is versatile—try it with lo mein, spaghetti, or even ramen. Each type will bring its unique texture to complement the rich sauce.
How should I store the leftovers?
Store any leftover noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them gently with a splash of water to keep them from drying out.
Feel free to dive into this delicious recipe and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles!
