Asian Beef Ramen Noodles is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the satisfying texture of ramen noodles. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also allows for customization based on personal preferences. Below is a detailed recipe that highlights the ingredients and steps needed to create this delightful meal.
Ingredients
1 pound extra lean ground beef
2 packets ramen noodles (discard seasoning packets)
1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, sliced
3 heaping tablespoons creamy peanut butter (or hoisin sauce for a different flavor)
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1/2 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 cups water (for cooking noodles and sauce)
Big handful of bean sprouts (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Chopped scallions or green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and the onion starts to turn golden (about 1.5 minutes).
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink (approximately 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
Prepare the Sauce:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the peanut butter, hoisin sauce, sriracha, soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of water to create a smooth sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and caramelized.
Cook the Noodles:
In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
Add the ramen noodles directly into the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (usually around 3 minutes).
Once cooked, reserve about 4 tablespoons of the cooking water, then drain the noodles.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the drained noodles to the skillet with the beef mixture. Toss everything together, adding reserved noodle water as needed to loosen up the sauce.
If using bean sprouts, add them now and stir-fry for another minute until they are just tender.
Season and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.
Tips for Customization
Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you like such as bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for added nutrition.
Protein Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes if you prefer more heat.
Conclusion
This Asian Beef Ramen Noodles recipe is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. It's perfect for those evenings when you're craving something hearty yet simple to prepare. Enjoy this dish as a comforting dinner that can be made in under 30 minutes!