Introduction to Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Why Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a Perfect Weeknight Meal
If your weeknights are often a whirlwind, Mongolian ground beef noodles might just be the solution you’ve been looking for. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also packs a delightful punch of flavors that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With a preparation time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of only 15 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal that feels like a special treat.
What makes this recipe shine is its versatility. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, to create a more nutritious dish. You can also adjust the spice level by tossing in a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Plus, as a healthy twist, choosing lean ground beef ensures that you’re keeping it guilt-free without sacrificing taste.
Want to cut down on prep work even more? Use leftover ground beef or pre-cooked noodles. The possibilities are endless! Dive into this Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe, and let it become your go-to weeknight staple. For more quick recipe ideas, check out these weeknight dinner tips.
Ingredients for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Essential ingredients for a flavorful dish
To create delicious Mongolian ground beef noodles, you'll want to gather these essential ingredients:
- Lo mein noodles: 8 oz will provide a perfect base for the dish.
- Lean ground beef: One pound of 90/10 or 93/7 is ideal for a juicy flavor without excess fat.
- Beef broth: A half-cup adds depth to the sauce.
- Soy sauce: Use ⅓ cup of low-sodium soy sauce for balanced seasoning.
- Brown sugar: A ¼ cup brings sweetness to balance the saltiness.
- Hoisin sauce: Two tablespoons adds a unique flavor profile.
- Garlic and ginger: Fresh ingredients (5 cloves of garlic and 2 teaspoons of minced ginger) keep it aromatic.
Optional add-ins for extra nutrition and flavor
To elevate your Mongolian ground beef noodles, consider adding:
- Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots can easily amp up the nutrition.
- Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha for those who love a bit of heat.
- Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds or peanuts can add a delightful crunch.
These additions not only enhance the dish's flavor but also boost its nutritional value, making it a well-rounded meal. Explore some of these ingredient options, and customize the dish to suit your taste!
Preparing Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Making Mongolian ground beef noodles is as easy as it gets—perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry! Let’s break it down into simple steps so you can enjoy this flavorful dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes.
Cook the lo mein noodles
Start by boiling your lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. However, cut down the cooking time by about 1-2 minutes. Why? You want them to be just shy of al dente, as they’ll finish cooking when we mix them with the beef and sauce later. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside. If you’re using dried noodles, soak them in hot water for approximately 15 minutes before draining.
Mix the quick and easy homemade sauce
While the noodles are boiling, it’s time to whip up a simple but delicious sauce! In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- ½ cup beef broth
- ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
To elevate the flavor, add about 75% of your minced garlic and ginger, saving the remaining for later. This step brings an extra aromatic layer to your Mongolian ground beef noodles.
Brown the ground beef to perfection
Preheat your griddle or large skillet to about medium heat. Once it’s hot, it’s time to add your 1 lb of lean ground beef. Don’t overcrowd the pan; instead, place small chunks evenly. Let the beef sear undisturbed for about 3 minutes to get that lovely char. When it’s halfway cooked, mix in the chopped green onion whites, allowing them to meld with the beef as it continues cooking.
Sauté garlic and ginger for aromatic flavor
After your beef is nicely browned, it’s time to infuse our dish with delicious scents! Push the beef to the side of your griddle or skillet (or transfer it to a bowl). Add about 1 tablespoon of high-heat cooking oil. Into the hot oil, toss the reserved minced garlic and ginger, letting them sauté for about 1 minute. The aim here is to avoid burning but to create an enticing aroma that signals dinner’s almost ready!
Combine noodles, beef, and sauce
Now, back to your prepped lo mein noodles! Add them to the griddle or skillet, mixing with the garlic and ginger to coat the noodles in that sizzle of flavor. Spread them evenly and cook for 1-2 minutes without stirring to achieve slight crispiness. Pour in your prepared sauce and combine everything by tossing it together thoroughly. The flavors will meld as the sauce thickens over about 2-3 minutes.
Top off your Mongolian ground beef noodles with green onion greens, serve immediately, and enjoy a delightful meal that you just pulled together in a snap!
Feel free to explore more about noodle varieties or cooking tips to enhance your dishes at resources like Serious Eats or BBC Good Food. Happy cooking!
Variations on Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Spicy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Want to turn up the heat? For spicy Mongolian ground beef noodles, simply add red pepper flakes or sriracha to your sauce. Start with one teaspoon and adjust to your preferred spice level. This little tweak not only elevates the flavor but also adds a delightful kick that's sure to please those craving something bold!
Vegetarian Twist with Tofu and Mixed Veggies
No meat? No problem! For a delicious vegetarian twist, swap out the ground beef for firm tofu. Just crumble or cube the tofu and sauté it until golden before adding it to your noodles. Enhance the dish by tossing in a rainbow of mixed veggies—like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas—stir-frying them until they're vibrant and tender. This creates a colorful, nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy, showcasing the versatility of this fantastic dish!
Looking to expand your culinary skills? Explore additional options on seriouseats.com for more exciting variations!
Cooking tips and notes for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Tips for enhancing flavors and textures
To elevate your Mongolian ground beef noodles, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness. For a delightful crunch, toss in some toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts. You can also sprinkle a touch of white pepper for a subtle heat that complements the dish beautifully.
Ingredient substitutions for dietary preferences
If you're looking for alternatives, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian take, use mushrooms or tofu instead. You can easily substitute lo mein noodles with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs. Need more veggies? Toss in bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition! Check out this resource on gluten-free noodle options for more ideas.
Serving Suggestions for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Pairing Sides for a Complete Meal
To elevate your Mongolian ground beef noodles into a complete meal, consider pairing them with light and refreshing sides like steamed broccoli or a crisp cucumber salad. These options not only add vibrant color to your plate but also introduce a delightful crunch that balances the noodles’ rich flavors. For an extra touch, you could serve some crispy spring rolls or egg rolls. Not only are these classics crowd-pleasers, but they also provide a satisfying crunch that complements the main dish beautifully.
Serving Presentation Tips for an Inviting Dish
Presentation can enhance the dining experience, so don’t overlook it! Serve your Mongolian ground beef noodles in a wide, shallow bowl, and garnish with freshly chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color. Drizzling a little extra hoisin sauce over the top can make it visually appealing while offering an optional sweet boost to taste. Consider placing a small dish of soy sauce on the side for dipping and encourage guests to customize their flavor. Engaging presentation transforms your meal from ordinary to extraordinary!
Time Breakdown for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Preparation Time
Get started with just 5 minutes of prep! You’ll be measuring ingredients, chopping garlic and ginger, and boiling the lo mein noodles while the flavors come together.
Cooking Time
In only 15 minutes, you’ll have everything sizzling away! This quick cooking time ensures your Mongolian ground beef noodles are juicy and flavorful.
Total Time
In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and quick!
For more cooking tips, check out this article on quick meal prep strategies to streamline your evenings even further!
Nutritional Facts for Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Calories
A serving of Mongolian ground beef noodles contains approximately 550 calories, making it a hearty meal option for those with a busy lifestyle.
Protein
This dish is protein-packed, offering about 35 grams per serving, thanks to the lean ground beef. It's a fantastic choice if you’re looking to fuel your body after a long day or an intense workout.
Sodium
Keep in mind that this recipe does have a higher sodium content, roughly 1,200 mg per serving, primarily from the soy sauce used. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce, as suggested in our recipe, is a great way to manage your sodium intake while still enjoying this delicious dish.
By balancing all the flavors and nutritional components, Mongolian ground beef noodles make for a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s easy to whip up. Want to know more about healthy eating habits? Check out the American Heart Association for valuable insights!
FAQs about Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While lo mein noodles work wonderfully for this dish, you can get creative. Linguini, fettuccini, or spaghetti are great substitutes if they’re what you have on hand. For a heartier option, try udon noodles, which will bring a unique chewy texture to your Mongolian ground beef noodles. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the noodle type.
How to store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is a breeze! Simply let your Mongolian ground beef noodles cool down before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
What can I add for extra nutrition?
Enhancing your Mongolian ground beef noodles with additional nutrition is simple. Toss in some colorful stir-fry vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. They not only boost the nutritional profile but also add vibrant flavors and textures to your dish. Consider adding a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens.
For more tips on healthy cooking, check out Healthline's Nutrition section.
Conclusion on Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
In just 20 minutes, Mongolian ground beef noodles can transform your dinner routine into a deliciously flavorful experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines simplicity and taste, ensuring satisfaction in every bite. Try it out and impress your friends or family with this easy Asian-inspired meal!
For more inspiration, check out other quick Asian recipes.
Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles – Easy Griddle or Skillet Recipe
Equipment
- griddle
- large skillet
Ingredients
Noodles and Beef
- 8 oz lo mein noodles See notes
- 1 lb lean ground beef like 90/10 or 93/7
Sauce Ingredients
- ½ cup beef broth
- ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Flavorings
- 5 cloves minced garlic
- 2 teaspoon minced ginger
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon high-heat cooking oil like avocado oil
- 3 green onions thinly sliced, whites and greens separated
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Boil the noodles according to package instructions, reducing cooking time by about 1-2 minutes. Drain noodles and set aside.
- Preheat griddle or skillet to medium heat (around 400°F).
- Prepare the sauce by combining beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, black pepper, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix in 75% of ginger and garlic.
- Cook ground beef in small chunks, allowing it to sear for 2-3 minutes. Add whites of green onions when beef is halfway cooked.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil to griddle or skillet, then add remaining minced garlic and ginger to toast briefly (about 1 minute).
- Add drained noodles to the griddle or skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, mixing briefly to incorporate garlic and ginger.
- Add the cooked ground beef to the noodles and sauté together. Slowly pour in the prepared sauce.
- Toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats the noodles. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Sprinkle with the tops of green onions and serve immediately.
Leave a Reply