Chinese New Year Braised Beef Noodles
Jump to RecipeWelcome to our celebration of flavor with this delectable Braised Beef Noodles recipe, perfect for your Chinese New Year festivities! This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but a comforting embrace of rich flavors that symbolize prosperity and good fortune in the coming year. The tender beef brisket, marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce and oyster sauce, melds beautifully with the hearty egg noodles, creating a satisfying meal that's sure to impress your family and friends. With a hint of ginger and garlic, each bowl is a warm invitation to share stories and laughter around the dining table. As you dive into the culinary traditions of Chinese New Year, let this Braised Beef Noodles recipe be your guide to creating a memorable feast that honors the customs of the season while tantalizing your taste buds. Get ready to cook up some happiness!
Ingredients
beef brisket
Beef brisket is a tough cut that benefits from slow cooking, making it ideal for braising. If you can't find brisket, you can substitute with chuck roast or short ribs, which will also become tender with low and slow cooking. Make sure to trim excess fat but leave some for flavor.
egg noodles
Egg noodles cook quickly and have a lovely texture. You can substitute them with rice noodles or soba noodles if you prefer. If using dried noodles, follow package instructions, but consider undercooking them slightly as they will soak up the braising liquid later.
soy sauce
Soy sauce adds a savory depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If you want a lighter flavor, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or even coconut aminos.
oyster sauce
Oyster sauce adds a sweet and umami flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, you can substitute it with mushroom sauce or a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness.
beef broth
Beef broth enhances the flavor of the braise. If you don’t have beef broth, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or chicken broth as an alternative, but it might alter the final taste.
ginger (sliced)
Ginger adds warmth and spice. If you don't have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be used, but use less (about 1 teaspoon) since it is more concentrated. You can also substitute with galangal for a different flavor profile.
garlic (minced)
Garlic provides aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is best, but in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon for each clove). Roasting the garlic before adding it can also provide a sweeter, milder flavor.
green onions (sliced)
Green onions add a fresh crunch and a mild onion flavor. You can substitute with chives or shallots if needed. For a garnish, consider using cilantro or parsley for a different flavor.
sugar
Sugar balances the savory flavors. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or honey as a natural sweetener. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using maple syrup.
sesame oil
Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor. Make sure to use toasted sesame oil for a richer taste. If you don't have sesame oil, you can use a neutral oil and add a few sesame seeds for a hint of flavor.
salt
Salt enhances flavor. Adjust to taste, but be cautious as soy sauce and broth can also be salty. If you're watching your sodium intake, you might prefer to use a low-sodium broth and soy sauce.
black pepper
Black pepper adds heat and complexity. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred for its flavor. You can substitute with white pepper for a milder taste or omit it for a milder version.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients: 1.5 lbs of beef brisket, 8 oz of egg noodles, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tbsp of oyster sauce, 4 cups of beef broth, 1 inch of sliced ginger, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 sliced green onions, 1 tbsp of sugar, 1 tbsp of sesame oil, and salt and black pepper to taste.Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 inch of sliced ginger. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step releases the essential oils from the garlic and ginger, enhancing the flavor of the dish.Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the 1.5 lbs of beef brisket to the pot. Sear the meat on all sides for about 5-7 minutes until browned. This browning process develops a deeper flavor and adds a nice color to the dish.Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasoning
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sugar into the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer.Step 5: Braise the Beef
Allow the beef to braise for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily breaks apart with a fork. Check occasionally to ensure there’s enough liquid, adding water if necessary to keep it saucy.Step 6: Slice the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, carefully remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot to soak up the flavors of the sauce.Step 7: Cook the Noodles
In a separate pot, cook the 8 oz of egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and set them aside. Be sure not to overcook them; they should remain slightly firm (al dente) since they will continue to cook when mixed with the hot beef and sauce.Step 8: Serve the Dish
To serve, place a portion of the cooked noodles in bowls, top them with the sliced braised beef, and ladle the rich sauce over the top. Garnish with 2 sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare the beef brisket before cooking?
Rinse the beef brisket under cold water to remove any surface impurities. Pat it dry with paper towels, then trim any excess fat if desired. Cut it into manageable pieces if your pot is smaller.
What type of egg noodles should I use?
Look for fresh or dried egg noodles in the pasta aisle. Dried noodles typically take longer to cook than fresh ones, so take note of the cooking instructions on the package.
How do I know when the beef is tender?
After about 1.5 hours of braising, check the beef by inserting a fork. If it easily pulls apart, it’s done. If it's still tough, cover and braise for another 15-30 minutes.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for sweetness. It's not the same, but it will add flavor.
How can I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
After cooking the noodles, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Toss them lightly with a bit of oil if you’re not serving them immediately.
Is it necessary to brown the beef before braising?
Browning the beef adds depth of flavor to the dish, but if you're short on time, you can skip this step. Just ensure the beef is cooked thoroughly during braising.
How do I safely slice ginger and garlic?
For ginger, use a sharp knife to slice off the skin, then cut it into thin slices. For garlic, smash the cloves slightly with the flat side of a knife to loosen the skin, then mince as desired.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Braised beef noodles are great for meal prep. You can braise the beef up to 2 days in advance and reheat it gently before serving.
What should I do if my sauce is too salty?
If your sauce is too salty, you can add a bit of water or beef broth to dilute the flavor. You can also add a little sugar to balance the saltiness.
How do I garnish the dish properly?
To garnish with green onions, slice them thinly on a diagonal and sprinkle them on top of the noodles and beef right before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Additional Information
Dietary Considerations
This dish can be easily adapted for those with dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free egg noodles or rice noodles. To make it lighter, consider using lean cuts of beef or even a plant-based protein such as mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option. Ensure the oyster sauce is labeled gluten-free if needed.
Pairings
For a delightful pairing with Chinese New Year Braised Beef Noodles, consider serving it with a side of steamed bok choy or sautéed snow peas, as their crunch and freshness contrast beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish. For beverages, a chilled jasmine tea or a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir complements the savory notes of the beef and soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Braised Beef Noodles hot in deep bowls to keep the dish warm, and consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds and additional sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor. A drizzle of chili oil on top can introduce a spicy kick for those who enjoy a little heat. Present the dish with chopsticks and small soup spoons for a traditional dining experience, and include a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
Chinese New Year Braised Beef Noodles
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Description
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender braised beef served over comforting noodles, perfect for celebrating the Lunar New Year.
Ingredients
- beef brisket: 1.5 lbs
- egg noodles: 8 oz
- soy sauce: 1/4 cup
- oyster sauce: 2 tbsp
- beef broth: 4 cups
- ginger (sliced): 1 inch
- garlic (minced): 4 cloves
- green onions (sliced): 2
- sugar: 1 tbsp
- sesame oil: 1 tbsp
- salt: to taste
- black pepper: to taste
Date Created:
12/29/2024