Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a flavorful, quick, and easy meal that combines tender ground beef with a sweet and savory sauce, tossed with linguine noodles. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, Asian-inspired meal that doesn’t take much time to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef: Provides the base of the dish, adding a hearty and savory flavor.
• 5 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• 1/3 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and the savoriness of the beef.
• 1/4 cup beef broth: Helps to create a rich, savory sauce that coats the noodles and beef.
• 1/3 cup soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami flavor that is essential for the dish.
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce: Adds a deep, sweet, and tangy flavor to the sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and a slight spicy undertone.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Balances the sweetness and enhances the savory elements.
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a bit of heat to the dish, perfect for those who like a little spice.
• 10 oz linguine: The noodles that absorb the delicious sauce and serve as the base of the meal.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, making it stick to the noodles and beef.
• 2 tablespoons water: Mixes with the cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening.
• 4 green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

1. Boil the Linguine:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

1. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the Garlic:
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, beef broth, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

4. Thicken the Sauce:

1. Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
   • In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth.
2. Add the Sauce to the Beef:
   • Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the browned beef and garlic. Stir to combine.
3. Thicken the Sauce:
   • Slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coats the beef evenly.

5. Combine with Noodles:

1. Add the Cooked Noodles:
   • Add the cooked and drained linguine to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with Green Onions:
   • Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top of the dish, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
2. Serve Warm:
   • Serve the Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles warm, with an optional pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Tips for Success:

• Choose the Right Beef: Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the dish. If your beef is not lean, be sure to drain the fat after browning.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the linguine until just al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
• Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness: The balance of sweet and savory is key in this dish. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar slightly. Similarly, you can adjust the soy sauce if you want it less salty.
• Add Vegetables: For added texture and nutrition, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. Sauté them after browning the beef for a few minutes before adding the sauce.

FAQs:

• Can I use a different type of noodle? Yes, you can substitute linguine with other long noodles like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and beef ahead of time. When ready to serve, simply reheat the beef and sauce mixture, then toss with freshly cooked noodles.
• Can I freeze leftovers? Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• What can I serve with Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles? This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a simple side salad, or even a side of dumplings for a complete meal.

Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the best of Asian-inspired flavors in a quick and easy meal. The combination of sweet and savory sauce with tender beef and perfectly cooked noodles makes this dish a hit with the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to deliver. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level!