Mongolian noodles have quickly become a favorite dish for families seeking a flavorful yet simple meal. With the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a slight kick of spice, this dish is a hit for weeknights when time is of the essence but flavor can’t be compromised. Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles combines the hearty richness of ground beef with a smooth, soy-based sauce, paired beautifully with noodles. The best part? It can be ready in just about 25 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy schedules. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish while discussing tips, variations, and some frequently asked questions to make it your own.
Ingredients with Quantities
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a rich, meaty base for the dish.
- 8 oz noodles (spaghetti or lo mein): Traditional Mongolian noodles are used here, but spaghetti works just as well for an accessible version.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The soy sauce gives the dish its salty and umami-rich flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the soy sauce.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Enhances the overall richness of the sauce, deepening the flavors.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic brings out a strong aromatic quality in the sauce.
- 1 tsp ginger, minced: Fresh ginger adds warmth and depth to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a slight heat; omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Provides a fresh, sharp contrast to the rich sauce.
- 1 tbsp cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent to give the sauce its perfect consistency.
- 2 tbsp water: Used to dissolve the cornstarch for a smooth sauce.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Adds a nutty flavor and is used for cooking the ground beef.
Direction and Preparation Method
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions. Whether you’re using spaghetti or lo mein, make sure to cook them al dente. Once they’re done, drain them and set them aside. This is a good time to toss the noodles with a tiny bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil (or vegetable oil if you prefer a neutral flavor) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. The beef should be browned and fully cooked in about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Aromatics – Garlic and Ginger
Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and ginger. These ingredients should cook with the beef for about 1 minute, just until they release their wonderful fragrance. Be careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the cooked beef, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This slurry will help thicken the sauce without creating lumps. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the skillet, and continue to stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This should take just a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Combine the Noodles
Once the sauce has thickened, add your cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are completely coated with the sauce. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes over the top. Serve the dish hot and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef adds a hearty and rich flavor to this dish, you can easily substitute it with other proteins. Ground chicken or turkey are great leaner options, while ground pork will give the dish a slightly different but still delicious taste. For a vegetarian twist, you can use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
This dish is flexible and works well with various vegetables. You can add bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition. Simply sauté the vegetables with the ground beef before adding the garlic and ginger.
3. What type of noodles should I use?
Traditional Mongolian noodles are perfect, but spaghetti is a great and accessible substitute. You can also use lo mein, udon, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of noodles you choose.
4. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes! If you prefer a spicy kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of sriracha or hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You could also top the dish with chopped fresh chili peppers for an extra layer of heat.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen up the noodles and sauce. You can reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
6. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare parts of this dish in advance. The sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the fridge. You can also cook the ground beef in advance, making the final cooking process much faster. Just be sure to store everything separately, and mix them together when you’re ready to serve.
7. Can I use fresh ginger and garlic instead of minced?
Absolutely! Freshly grated ginger and garlic will provide even more robust flavors. Minced versions are convenient and still delicious, but if you have the time, grating them will make a noticeable difference in taste.
8. How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?
To prevent the noodles from becoming soggy, avoid overcooking them. They should be al dente, which means firm to the bite. If you plan to store the dish for later, it’s a good idea to undercook the noodles slightly and only fully cook them when you reheat the meal.
9. What side dishes pair well with Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles?
This dish is already quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, or snow peas. A simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette can also help balance the richness of the noodles.
10. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, if you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce is a great option. It will reduce the saltiness of the dish without sacrificing too much flavor. You can also control the amount of soy sauce depending on your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Mongolian Noodles is an easy, flavorful dish that delivers on taste while being simple enough for weeknight dinners. The combination of rich ground beef, fragrant garlic and ginger, and a sweet and savory sauce make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. The noodles, whether traditional or spaghetti, soak up the delicious sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. With plenty of opportunities for customization—whether through different proteins, vegetables, or spice levels—this dish is versatile enough to fit any preference.