Beef Chow Fun

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Plate of sizzling Beef Chow Fun with tender beef and silky noodles.

Why Make This Recipe

Beef Chow Fun is a popular dish in Chinese cuisine that many people enjoy for its delicious flavors and satisfying textures. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a homemade meal. The combination of tender beef, wide rice noodles, and fresh vegetables coated in savory sauces creates a delicious experience that will please anyone at your table.

How to Make Beef Chow Fun

Ingredients

  • 8 oz beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
  • 300g wide rice noodles
  • 1 cup bean sprouts
  • 2 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch piece ginger, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
  • 1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions

  1. Marinate the beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, and a pinch of salt for about 15 minutes. If possible, add a little cornstarch to help tenderize.
  2. If using dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water until softened, then drain. If fresh, gently separate the strands.
  3. Heat the oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-fry briefly until fragrant.
  4. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry quickly until just browned.
  5. Add the noodles and toss well. Pour the remaining soy sauce and dark soy sauce over the noodle mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
  6. Stir in the bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for just another minute to keep the vegetables crisp.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting Beef Chow Fun.

How to Serve Beef Chow Fun

Beef Chow Fun is best served hot straight from the wok. You can present it nicely on a large serving platter or serve it directly from the pan. Consider adding a sprinkle of extra green onions or a dash of sesame oil for added flavor. It pairs well with other dishes like fried rice or soup if you want a fuller meal.

How to Store Beef Chow Fun

If you have leftovers, let the Beef Chow Fun cool down to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should be eaten within 2-3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Tips to Make Beef Chow Fun

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
  • Don’t overcook the beef; it should be tender and not tough.
  • Feel free to adjust the sauces according to your taste. If you like it saltier or more flavorful, add a bit more soy sauce.
  • Make sure your wok or skillet is very hot to get a good sear on the beef and to keep the noodles from becoming mushy.

Variation

You can customize Beef Chow Fun by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli. For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with tofu or more bean sprouts for added protein.

FAQs

What type of beef works best for Beef Chow Fun?
Flank steak or sirloin are great options because they are tender and flavorful when sliced thin.

Can I use rice vermicelli noodles instead?
While traditional Beef Chow Fun uses wide rice noodles, you can use rice vermicelli if that’s what you have on hand. Just soak them until soft and adjust cooking times as needed.

Is it necessary to marinate the beef?
While it is not strictly necessary, marinating the beef helps infuse flavor and makes it more tender. Skipping this step may result in less flavorful meat.

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