Unleash the flavors of your favorite takeout dish right in your kitchen with this easy Mongolian beef noodles recipe. Perfect for those nights when you’re craving something savory, sweet, and a little spicy, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of noodles.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that clings to every noodle and slice of beef.
- Using flank steak ensures your beef is tender and juicy, not tough or chewy.
- Quick cooking times mean you can have this dish on the table faster than it would take to order delivery.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 8 oz dried rice noodles
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Pot for boiling noodles
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
Start by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This ensures each piece is tender. Boil the rice noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create your sauce.
Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef strips, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until just browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Bring It All Together
In the same skillet, add the remaining tbsp of oil and the cooked noodles. Pour the sauce over the noodles, tossing to coat evenly. Add the beef back into the skillet, stirring everything together for another 2 minutes until heated through.
Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Mongolian beef noodles to serving plates and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced beef from your grocery store. To make this dish gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the beef for chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Use spaghetti or udon noodles if you can’t find rice noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and slice the beef ahead of time, but for the best texture, cook the noodles and beef just before serving.
How can I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Is this recipe spicy? As written, it’s mildly spicy. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
Summary
This Mongolian beef noodles recipe is a quick, flavorful alternative to takeout, combining tender beef, chewy noodles, and a savory-sweet sauce for a satisfying meal.