Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

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Introduction

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy dish inspired by Mongolian flavors but adapted for the convenience of ground beef and noodles. This quick and easy dish is a delicious alternative to takeout, featuring tender noodles tossed with seasoned ground beef in a rich sauce made of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that satisfies cravings for something hearty and full of umami flavor.

Origin and Cultural Significance

While this dish is not traditional Mongolian cuisine, it draws inspiration from Americanized Mongolian-style dishes often found in Chinese-American restaurants. Mongolian beef typically features stir-fried flank steak with a sweet and savory sauce, served over rice or noodles. This version swaps the steak for ground beef and noodles, making it a budget-friendly, quick, and adaptable meal that still captures the essence of the classic.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 8 oz noodles (spaghetti, udon, or rice noodles)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium)
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional for thickening)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Optional Additions

  • Vegetables: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrients and texture.
  • Sriracha: For added spice, mix in Sriracha or another hot sauce.
  • Bok Choy: Stir in chopped bok choy for a more traditional Asian green element.

Tips for Success

  • Cook Noodles Separately: Cook your noodles according to package instructions before adding them to the beef to prevent overcooking or sogginess.
  • Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: These add a bold, aromatic flavor that makes the dish more authentic.
  • Balance Sweetness: Taste the sauce before adding it to the beef and noodles. You can adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the brown sugar to your liking.
  • Don’t Overcook the Ground Beef: Keep the beef tender by cooking it just until browned.

Instructions

  1. Cook the Noodles: Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth (or water), and hoisin sauce. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the ground beef mixture.
  5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
  6. Add the Noodles: Toss the cooked noodles into the beef and sauce mixture, ensuring the noodles are well coated. Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) and green onions.
  7. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and extra green onions. Serve hot.

Description

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles are a delightful fusion of flavors. The ground beef is cooked to perfection and coated in a savory-sweet sauce that’s bursting with umami from the soy sauce, hoisin, garlic, and ginger. The tender noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful and comforting. The dish is slightly sticky from the sauce, with just the right amount of sweetness and heat to keep it exciting.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~550-600 kcal
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Carbohydrates: ~65g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sodium: ~1500mg (depending on soy sauce used)
  • Sugar: ~15g

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This dish is indulgent yet can be easily tailored for a healthier version. You can use whole wheat noodles, reduce the amount of sugar, or substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. Incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli also boosts the nutrient content. The balance of flavors and the satisfying nature of this dish makes it a perfect option for those seeking a hearty meal with a touch of indulgence while still being mindful of health.

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