Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Introduction
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and chewy noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce. This dish reflects the rich culinary traditions of Mongolian cuisine, which often emphasizes hearty ingredients and robust flavors. While it may not be traditionally Mongolian, it draws inspiration from the flavors of Mongolian beef dishes, adapting them into a convenient noodle form.
History
Mongolian cuisine is known for its reliance on meat, dairy, and simple ingredients, stemming from its nomadic lifestyle. Though “Mongolian beef” is more popularized in Western cuisine, it embodies the essence of Mongolian cooking—using accessible ingredients to create hearty meals. The combination of ground beef and noodles has become a popular adaptation, enjoyed in various forms across Asia.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
8 oz egg noodles or rice noodles
For the Beef:
1 lb ground beef
For the Sauce:
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp sugar
For the Stir-Fry:
1 tbsp vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece ginger, minced
1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 green onions, chopped
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup bean sprouts (optional)
To Garnish:
Sesame seeds
Additional chopped green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
Add the sliced bell pepper, shredded carrots, and bean sprouts to the beef. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything:
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, pour the sauce over the mixture, and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Benefits
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are not only delicious but also provide a balanced meal. The dish includes protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the noodles, and vitamins from the vegetables. It can easily be adapted to be healthier by using lean ground beef or adding more vegetables.
Nutrition
Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving (varies based on specific ingredients and portions)
Protein: High in protein due to the ground beef.
Carbohydrates: Provides energy from noodles.
Vitamins and Minerals: Offers a variety of vitamins, especially from the vegetables.
Conclusion
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a comforting dish that showcases the heartiness of Mongolian-inspired flavors in a simple yet satisfying way. Its versatility allows for customization, making it a favorite among many. Enjoying this dish can bring people together, whether shared at a family dinner or with friends, making it a delightful culinary experience for all.
Lovers of the Dish
This dish is ideal for those who appreciate a hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It caters to families, busy individuals, and anyone looking for a quick yet delicious dinner option. The balance of protein, vegetables, and noodles ensures that everyone can enjoy a plateful of this Mongolian-inspired comfort food.