Beef Chow Fun: A Savory Stir-Fry Treat
Craving a quick and flavorful meal? Look no further than Beef Chow Fun! This Cantonese dish features tender marinated beef stir-fried with rice noodles and crisp vegetables. Packed with umami flavors and textures, it’s a satisfying option for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- For the Beef:
- 12 oz flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp dark soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- For the Stir-Fry:
- 8 oz dried wide rice noodles (ho fan)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bean sprouts, rinsed
- 4 scallions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- Pinch of white pepper (optional)
- For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped roasted peanuts
- Sriracha
Cooking Guide:
- Marinate the Beef: Combine sliced flank steak with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white pepper, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for extra tenderness.
- Prepare the Noodles: Soak the dried rice noodles in hot water for 20 minutes, or according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
- Make the Stir-Fry Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and white pepper (if using).
- Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Sear the marinated beef strips until browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add another 1 tbsp of oil to the pan. Stir-fry the onion, ginger, and garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the bean sprouts and scallions, cook for another minute.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked noodles and stir-fry sauce to the pan. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly.
- Incorporate the Beef: Return the cooked beef to the pan and stir-fry for another minute until heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish your Beef Chow Fun with chopped roasted peanuts and sriracha (optional) for extra flavor and texture.
Tips:
- For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with tofu or tempeh, following the same marinating and cooking instructions.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, shredded carrots, or chopped bell peppers.
- To achieve the signature “wok hei” (smoky char) flavor, cook over very high heat and sear the ingredients quickly. If using a regular pan, preheat it well before adding the ingredients.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.