Why My Husband Prefers Homemade Chinese Beef Noodles Over Takeout

My husband always tells me not to order Chinese takeout and to make this dish for him instead. Here’s the recipe for a delicious homemade alternative that never fails to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add the minced ginger and garlic to the skillet and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and cornstarch until well combined.
5. Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the beef. Stir well, ensuring the beef is coated with the sauce, and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, mixing everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Stir in the green onions and continue cooking for another minute or two.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes.
9. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.

Variations & Tips

For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey. Add bell peppers or snap peas if you prefer more vegetables. For a gluten-free version, use rice noodles instead of egg noodles and ensure your soy sauce is gluten-free. A splash of rice vinegar can add a tangy note that brightens up the dish.

This recipe offers a fantastic homemade alternative to Chinese takeout, providing a rich, flavorful meal that is sure to become a family favorite.