Directions to follow
- Boil the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing.
- Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chili oil or red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken for about 2 minutes.
- Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet, mixing thoroughly so that every strand is enrobed in the glossy sauce. Finish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top.
Best ways to enjoy it
To elevate your dining experience, serve Spicy Garlic Sesame Beef Noodles in a large, shallow bowl for a restaurant-style presentation. Consider pairing it with crispy stir-fried vegetables or a fresh side salad for some extra crunch. Add a drizzle of more chili oil for those who love heat. You might also offer egg rolls or dumplings as a fun side, rounding out the meal beautifully.
How to store & freeze
This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep! After cooking, let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and placing it in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze your leftovers. Place them in a freezer-safe container and consume within 2-3 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before eating!
Helpful cooking tips
- For added depth of flavor, try marinating your ground beef in soy sauce and ginger for about 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don’t rush the sautéing of the garlic and ginger. This step is pivotal as it enhances the overall aroma and taste of the dish.
- Adjust the amount of chili oil or red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference – it can always be added after cooking if you or your guests prefer a milder flavor.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this dish according to your tastes! You can swap out the protein for shrimp or tofu if you’re looking for a seafood or vegetarian option. Adding vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or edamame would not only make the meal more colorful but also add nutritional value. For a refreshing finish, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving!
FAQ
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the noodles with gluten-free alternatives such as rice noodles or gluten-free soba noodles, and replace soy sauce with tamari.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat this dish is on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the noodles from drying out. Microwave reheating is also effective; just cover it with a wet paper towel to maintain moisture.
