Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles
Highlighted under: Comfort Table Favorites
I love making Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles at home because it combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and chewy rice noodles in a savory sauce that's incredibly satisfying. It’s a quick meal that my family enjoys, and I appreciate how easy it is to customize the flavors. By utilizing fresh ingredients and a few simple seasonings, I can recreate that takeout taste right in my kitchen. This dish comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when I want something delicious without fuss.
As I experimented with various Asian-inspired recipes, Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles quickly became a favorite in our household. The beef marinated in soy sauce and garlic creates a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender-crisp broccoli. One tip I discovered is to soak the rice noodles beforehand for about 30 minutes. This ensures they are perfectly soft and absorb the sauce better!
On a busy night, this dish can be on the table within 25 minutes, which is a lifesaver. I love how the colors pop on the plate, and the dish is not only pleasing to the eyes but also to our taste buds. The balance of textures makes every bite enjoyable. Truly a dish to impress!
Why You'll Love This Dish
- Tender beef with rich, savory flavors
- Crisp broccoli adds a delicious crunch
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights
Key Techniques for Tender Beef
To achieve the most tender beef in your Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles, it's essential to slice against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite easier to chew. Flank or sirloin are excellent cuts due to their flavor and texture. If you're in a hurry, you could also freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing; this firms it up and allows for cleaner cuts.
Marinating the beef is another crucial step. The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce not only flavors the meat but also helps to tenderize it. Cornstarch acts as a protective layer, creating a slight crispy exterior when stir-fried. Letting the beef marinade for 10 minutes may seem quick, but it’s effective enough to enhance the flavor without overdoing it.
Also, don’t overcrowd the pan when stir-frying. Cook the beef in batches if necessary; this ensures it sears properly and develops a lovely golden color, enhancing the dish's overall flavor.
Perfecting the Broccoli
Broccoli is not only a nutritious addition; it brings a satisfying crunch that complements the tender beef and chewy noodles. For optimal freshness, select bright green florets and avoid any yellowing. When cooking, stir-fry the broccoli until it turns bright green and maintains some bite, around 2-3 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t become overcooked and mushy.
To enhance the flavor of the broccoli, you can add a splash of soy sauce during the stir-frying process or a sprinkle of sesame seeds at the end. This addition not only boosts flavor but also creates a visually appealing dish.
If you have a dislike for broccoli or simply want a variation, asparagus or snap peas make excellent substitutes. These options will still offer a crisp texture while carrying the savory notes of the sauce.
Noodle Handling and Serving Suggestions
Properly preparing the rice noodles is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Soaking them in hot water until soft allows them to absorb flavor when combined with the beef and broccoli. Be cautious though; over-soaking can lead to sticky, mushy noodles. Always refer to the package instructions for specific timing, as it varies by brand.
When combining all the elements, make sure to toss them together gently yet thoroughly to marry the flavors. Using tongs can help ensure the noodles don't break apart while mixing. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is heated through and nicely coated with the sauce, which should have a glossy finish.
For serving, consider garnishing with chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed dumplings or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the beef and sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Beef and Broccoli
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (flank or sirloin)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Noodles
Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 30 minutes, or according to package instructions, until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli
In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds. Then, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and crisp.
Combine Everything
Return the beef to the skillet, add the beef broth, and bring to a simmer. Add the soaked rice noodles and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve
Transfer the Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles to serving plates and enjoy hot!
Pro Tips
- For extra heat, consider adding some chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variation.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and quality. Reheating can be done in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent sticking, and stir frequently until heated through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
For longer storage, consider freezing the beef and broccoli mixture without the noodles. This will maintain the best texture over time, and you can prepare fresh noodles upon serving. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick meal the following day.
When reheating, it's important to seek that same tender and crisp texture as when freshly made. Avoid using a microwave for the entire dish, as this often leads to soggy noodles.
Dietary Variations
For those following a gluten-free diet, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free oyster sauce as well. This method keeps the dish flavorful while accommodating dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
If you're looking to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan, swap out the beef for tofu or seitan, and replace both the beef broth and oyster sauce with vegetable broth and a vegan oyster sauce alternative. The cooking times might slightly differ, specifically ensuring that the plant-based proteins are cooked through and heated properly.
Adding extra vegetables is another way to customize this dish. Consider bell peppers, snap peas, or even carrots. These can add both color and nutrition, making the meal even more satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs work well as substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
→ What can I serve with Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but it pairs well with a side of spring rolls or a simple salad.
→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your rice noodles are certified gluten-free.
Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles
I love making Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles at home because it combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and chewy rice noodles in a savory sauce that's incredibly satisfying. It’s a quick meal that my family enjoys, and I appreciate how easy it is to customize the flavors. By utilizing fresh ingredients and a few simple seasonings, I can recreate that takeout taste right in my kitchen. This dish comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekends when I want something delicious without fuss.
Created by: Georgia Lane
Recipe Type: Comfort Table Favorites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Beef and Broccoli
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (flank or sirloin)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 oz rice noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
Soak the rice noodles in hot water for about 30 minutes, or according to package instructions, until they are soft. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds. Then, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are bright green and crisp.
Return the beef to the skillet, add the beef broth, and bring to a simmer. Add the soaked rice noodles and toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Transfer the Beef And Broccoli Rice Noodles to serving plates and enjoy hot!
Extra Tips
- For extra heat, consider adding some chili flakes or Sriracha to the sauce. You can also substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for variation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g