Imagine a sizzling pan of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and silky rice noodles that come together in less than 30 minutes to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. This Asian-inspired Rice Noodles Stir Fry with Beef is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook wanting to impress, this dish promises to be your new go-to meal that combines simplicity, speed, and spectacular taste.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by thinly slicing beef against the grain into strips approximately 1/4 inch thick. Chop mixed vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Soak rice noodles in warm water for 10-15 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain and set aside, ensuring noodles are not overly wet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, and minced garlic to create a marinade. Reserve half for sauce, and use remaining half to marinate beef slices for 5 minutes.
- Heat a large wok or wide skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and allow it to become very hot and slightly smoking.
- Add marinated beef to the hot pan, spreading pieces evenly. Sear for 2-3 minutes until edges are browned and meat is just cooked through. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same pan, stir-fry mixed vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp-tender and retain vibrant colors.
- Add drained rice noodles to the vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine. Pour reserved marinade over noodles and vegetables.
- Return beef to the pan, quickly tossing all ingredients together for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat and blend flavors.
- Transfer stir fry to serving plates, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Prep is Key: Have all ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking. Stir frying moves quickly, so mise en place is crucial.
- High Heat is Essential: Ensure your wok or pan is extremely hot before adding ingredients. This creates that perfect sear and prevents soggy vegetables.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve proper caramelization.
- Slice Meat Against the Grain: This ensures tender, easy-to-chew beef strips that practically melt in your mouth.
- Reserve Marinade Wisely: By setting aside half the marinade as a sauce, you'll enhance flavor without compromising food safety.
- Keep Vegetables Crisp: Stir-fry vegetables just until they're bright and tender-crisp to retain nutrients and texture.
- Serve Immediately: Stir fry is best enjoyed piping hot, straight from the wok to the plate.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
