How to Make Chinese Beef Soup with Noodles
Chinese beef soup with noodles is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and soft noodles. Follow this detailed recipe to create a delicious bowl of this traditional Chinese delicacy at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 8 ounces egg noodles or rice noodles
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by placing the beef pieces in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beef and bring it to a boil. Let it boil for about 5 minutes and then drain the water to remove any impurities. This step helps to ensure a clear and clean soup.
Step 2: Make the Broth
In the same pot, add the beef broth and water. Return the cleaned beef to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, sliced ginger, chopped green onions, carrot slices, and five-spice powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
Cover the pot and allow the soup to simmer on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process will tenderize the beef and enrich the flavors. Stir occasionally, and check the seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Noodles
About 10 minutes before serving, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside. If you prefer a firmer texture, slightly undercook the noodles.
Step 5: Serve the Soup
To serve, place a generous portion of noodles in a bowl. Ladle the hot beef soup over the noodles, ensuring that each bowl gets ample beef and vegetables. Garnish with fresh cilantro and additional chopped green onions if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Chinese Beef Soup
- For extra flavor, let the soup simmer longer, even up to 3 hours.
- Experiment with adding vegetables like bok choy or mushrooms for more variety.
- Serve with chili oil or soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy additional spice.
Enjoy your homemade Chinese beef soup with noodles, a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, it's bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.