Introduction
This delicious recipe transforms simple instant noodles into a flavorful dish packed with savory beef and crunchy bean sprouts. The combination of sauces elevates the taste, while the quick cooking time makes it a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner. Let’s explore the ingredients and steps needed to prepare this delightful meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 packets ramen or other instant noodles (discard seasoning)
– 1 teaspoon oil
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or more oil)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 onion, sliced
– 200g (7 oz) beef mince (ground beef)
– 1 1/4 cups (315 ml) water, plus more as needed
– A large handful of bean sprouts
– Sauce:
– 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce)
– 2 teaspoons hoisin sauce (or more oyster sauce)
– 1 tablespoon mirin
– Garnishes (optional):
– Finely sliced green onions (shallots)
– Sesame seeds
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and mirin. Mix well and set aside.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat the oil and sesame oil in a medium skillet over high heat. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 1.5 minutes until they start to turn golden.
Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up as you go, until it changes from pink to light brown.
Caramelize the Beef
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the beef to caramelize well.
Add Water and Noodles
Push the beef to one side of the skillet to make space. Pour in the water and place the uncooked ramen noodles into the water.
Cook the Noodles
Let the noodles sit for 45 seconds, then turn them over. After another 30 seconds, gently untangle the noodles and toss them through the beef mixture.
Add Bean Sprouts
Add the bean sprouts to the skillet. Toss everything together for about 1 minute, or until the sauce reduces and coats the noodles, and the noodles are cooked through.
Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with finely sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Adjusting Oil
You can increase the amount of sesame oil or other oil for a richer flavor.
Bean Sprouts
Bean sprouts can be replaced with other vegetables like bell peppers or bok choy if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple salad.
Cook techniques
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and mirin. Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful base for the dish.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat oil and sesame oil in a skillet over high heat. Adding sliced onion and minced garlic enhances the aroma and flavor, allowing them to turn golden, which takes about 1.5 minutes.
Cook the Beef
Introduce ground beef to the skillet and cook it while breaking it up. This step helps the meat change from pink to light brown, ensuring it’s cooked thoroughly.
Caramelize the Beef
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This process caramelizes the meat, infusing it with flavor and creating a rich sauce.
Add Water and Noodles
Create space in the skillet by pushing the beef to one side; pour water into the skillet and place uncooked ramen noodles into the water, allowing them to soften.
Cook the Noodles
Let the noodles sit for 45 seconds, then turn them over. After another 30 seconds, gently untangle the noodles and mix them with the beef, ensuring they absorb the sauce.
Add Bean Sprouts
Incorporate bean sprouts into the skillet, tossing everything together for about 1 minute. This adds crunch and freshness to the dish while allowing the sauce to reduce.
Serve
Serve the finished dish immediately, garnished with finely sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different types of noodles instead of ramen?
Absolutely! You can substitute ramen with other types of instant noodles or even fresh noodles, adjusting cooking time as needed.
What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
You can use hoisin sauce as a substitute, or simply skip it and increase the amount of dark soy sauce for added flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add any vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots, for a more nutritious meal.
How do I ensure the noodles don’t stick together?
Make sure to toss the noodles gently after adding them to the skillet and incorporate them with the sauce and beef to keep them separated.
What can I use as a garnish if I don’t have green onions or sesame seeds?
You may use chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, or even chili flakes for added flavor and visual appeal as alternative garnishes.
Conclusion
This quick and flavorful ramen dish brings together the savory richness of beef and a variety of sauces, resulting in a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. The addition of bean sprouts introduces a lovely crunch, while the optional garnishes enhance both the presentation and taste. Enjoy this hearty recipe as a versatile base, perfect for customization.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Ramen
Replace the beef mince with diced chicken breast and follow the same cooking method to create a lighter flavor profile.
Vegetable Ramen
Substitute the beef with a mix of sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a nutritious, vegetarian option. Use additional soy sauce to enhance flavor.
Spicy Ramen
Add a tablespoon of chili paste or Sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick, making the dish perfect for spice lovers.
Seafood Ramen
Replace the ground beef with shrimp or a mix of your favorite seafood. Adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Peanut Sauce Ramen
Incorporate peanut butter into the sauce mixture for a creamy, nutty flavor, and add fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts for garnish.
