Name: Easy Beef Chow Fun Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 16 oz rice noodles; 1 lb flank steak; 1 tbsp Corn Starch; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil; 3 garlic cloves; 2 tsp ginger; 2 tbsp shaoxing wine; 1 tsp sesame oil; ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce; ½ tsp sugar; Green Onions; ½ cup Bean Sprouts

Beef chow fun is a classic Cantonese dish featuring stir-fried rice noodles, tender slices of beef, and a medley of aromatic flavors. This easy recipe brings the taste of a Chinese restaurant to your home, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious dinner.

Photos of Easy Beef Chow Fun Recipe

Some ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in every kitchen. Shaoxing wine is a Chinese rice wine that enhances the dish with a deep flavor, while sesame oil adds a distinct nutty aroma. If you don’t have these on hand, a trip to an Asian supermarket will ensure you get the authentic taste.

Ingredients For Easy Beef Chow Fun

rice noodles: The base of the dish, usually found in dried form at Asian grocery stores.

flank steak: A lean cut of beef that’s perfect for quick stir-frying.

corn starch: Used to tenderize the beef and give it a silky texture.

soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami flavor essential to the dish.

vegetable oil: A neutral oil used for stir-frying.

garlic cloves: Adds a pungent, aromatic base to the dish.

ginger: Provides a warm, slightly spicy aroma.

shaoxing wine: Adds depth and complexity to the flavors.

sesame oil: Adds a nutty, toasted flavor.

low sodium soy sauce: Offers the same flavor as regular soy sauce but with less sodium.

sugar: Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.

green onions: Used for garnish, adding a fresh, slightly sharp flavor.

bean sprouts: Provide a crunchy texture and fresh taste.

One reader, Conan Christy says:

This easy beef chow fun recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and authentic, and the steps are straightforward. The beef is tender, and the noodles soak up the delicious sauce perfectly. A definite hit for a quick and tasty dinner!

Conan Christy

Essential Techniques for Making Beef Chow Fun

How to soak noodles: Soak the rice noodles in cold water for 30 minutes to soften them. How to boil noodles: Boil the rice noodles for 1 minute, then steep them in hot water for 5 minutes before draining. How to marinate beef: Mix the beef with cornstarch and soy sauce, then let it sit for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. How to sear beef: Add beef slices to a hot wok or skillet and sear them for 30 seconds on each side to lock in the juices. How to cook with a wok: Use a wok or large skillet on high heat to quickly cook ingredients, then lower the heat as needed. How to add aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the wok and cook for 15 seconds to release their flavors. How to combine ingredients: Add wine, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sugar to the wok, then mix well before adding mung bean sprouts, noodles, and beef. Toss to combine all ingredients evenly.

How To Make Easy Beef Chow Fun

Our appetizing beef chow fun is a tasteful Chinese dish loaded with filling beef, noodles, and a savory sauce. Whip this up in just 30 minutes!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

16ozrice noodles,extra wide
1lbflank steak,sliced paper thin against the grain
1tbspcorn starch
1tbspsoy sauce
3tbspvegetable oil
3garlic cloves,minced
2tspginger,minced
2tbspShaoxing wine
1tspsesame oil
¼cuplow sodium soy sauce
½tspsugar
green onions,1 bunch, green parts cut into 2-inch sections
½cupbean sprouts,mung bean preferred

Instructions

Soak the noodles for 30 minutes in cold water.
Alternatively, boil the noodles for 1 minute and steep them in the hot water for 5 minutes before draining.
Mix the beef with the cornstarch and soy sauce, then let sit for 30 minutes while the noodles are soaking.
Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to a wok or large skillet on high heat.
Add the beef slices, individually searing them 30 seconds on each side.
Lower the heat to medium, then add in the remaining oil, garlic and ginger.
Cook for 15 seconds.
Add in the wine, sesame oil, soy sauce and sugar, then mix well.
Add in the mung bean sprouts, noodles, and beef, then toss to combine.
Garnish with green onions, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 737.67kcal
Fat: 21.77g
Saturated Fat: 4.94g
Trans Fat: 0.08g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.86g
Carbohydrates: 96.26g
Fiber: 2.28g
Sugar: 1.39g
Protein: 33.15g
Cholesterol: 77.11mg
Sodium: 1062.62mg
Calcium: 63.69mg
Potassium: 521.65mg
Iron: 3.02mg
Vitamin A: 0.13µg
Vitamin C: 2.47mg

One Simple Technique to Elevate Your Beef Chow Fun

When searing the beef, make sure the wok or skillet is extremely hot before adding the slices. This helps to quickly caramelize the exterior, locking in the juices and enhancing the flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the beef in batches if necessary to ensure even searing.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Beef Chow Fun

Pre-slice the beef: Slice the flank steak ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save prep time.

Use pre-soaked noodles: Purchase pre-soaked rice noodles to skip the soaking or boiling step.

Ready-to-use garlic and ginger: Opt for pre-minced garlic and ginger to cut down on chopping time.

Batch cook the beef: Sear the beef slices in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Pre-mix the sauce: Combine soy sauce, shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Beef Chow Fun Recipe

rice noodles - Substitute with udon noodles: Udon noodles have a similar chewy texture and can absorb the flavors well.
flank steak - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean protein that can be sliced thinly and stir-fried similarly to flank steak.
corn starch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder acts as a thickening agent just like corn starch and is a good alternative for those avoiding corn.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar flavor profile.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good substitute for vegetable oil.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent than fresh garlic.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh ginger, though it is more concentrated, so use less.
shaoxing wine - Substitute with dry sherry: Dry sherry has a similar flavor profile and can be used as a substitute for Shaoxing wine.
sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used in place of sesame oil, though it will lack the nutty flavor.
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos are a lower-sodium alternative to soy sauce with a slightly sweeter taste.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide the sweetness needed and adds a slight floral note.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
bean sprouts - Substitute with snow peas: Snow peas add a similar crunch and fresh flavor to the dish.

How to Beautifully Present Beef Chow Fun

Select the finest ingredients: Ensure that the flank steak is of the highest quality and the rice noodles are fresh. This will elevate the dish's overall flavor and texture.
Perfectly cooked noodles: Soak or boil the rice noodles to achieve the ideal texture. They should be tender yet firm, not mushy.
Marinate the beef: Mix the flank steak with cornstarch and soy sauce, allowing it to marinate for 30 minutes. This step ensures the beef is flavorful and tender.
Sear the beef: In a hot wok, sear the beef slices individually for 30 seconds on each side. This creates a beautiful caramelization and locks in the juices.
Aromatics: Lower the heat and add garlic and ginger to the wok. Cook for 15 seconds to release their fragrant oils, enhancing the dish's aroma.
Deglaze with wine: Add shaoxing wine to the wok, which will deglaze the pan and incorporate all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Balance the flavors: Mix in sesame oil, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar. This combination creates a harmonious balance of savory, umami, and slight sweetness.
Incorporate vegetables: Add bean sprouts and green onions to the wok. They provide a fresh, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender beef and noodles.
Combine and toss: Add the noodles and beef back into the wok. Toss everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors and ingredients.
Plating: Use a large, shallow bowl to plate the beef chow fun. Arrange the noodles in a nest-like shape, placing the beef slices on top. Garnish with additional green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Beef Chow Fun

Wok: A large, round-bottomed cooking vessel ideal for stir-frying, allowing for even heat distribution and quick cooking.
Large skillet: An alternative to a wok, providing a flat surface for searing and stir-frying ingredients.
Knife: Essential for slicing the flank steak and chopping garlic and ginger.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for safely cutting and preparing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Used for marinating the beef with cornstarch and soy sauce.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring out the cornstarch, soy sauce, vegetable oil, shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar.
Tongs: Useful for turning the beef slices while searing them in the wok or skillet.
Spatula: Helps in mixing and tossing the ingredients together in the wok or skillet.
Colander: Used for draining the soaked or boiled rice noodles.
Garlic press: Optional, but can be used to mince the garlic cloves quickly.
Grater: Optional, for grating the ginger if you prefer not to mince it.

The Best Ways to Store and Freeze Beef Chow Fun

Let the beef chow fun cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, simply microwave the desired portion for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, or stir-fry it in a hot wok or skillet with a splash of water or oil until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the beef chow fun for up to 2-3 months:
- Divide the cooled dish into individual serving sizes and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
To reheat frozen beef chow fun, you can either:
- Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it in the microwave or stir-fry it in a wok or skillet until heated through.
- Place the frozen portion directly into a hot wok or skillet with a little oil and water, cover, and steam until heated through, stirring occasionally to break up any clumps.
Note: The texture of the rice noodles may change slightly after freezing and reheating, becoming a bit softer, but the dish will still be delicious and satisfying.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Beef Chow Fun

Reheat the beef chow fun in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil or water to the pan to prevent the noodles from sticking and to help them reheat evenly. Stir-fry the noodles for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the beef chow fun in the microwave. Place the noodles in a microwave-safe dish and add a small amount of water or broth to help keep them moist. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through. Stir the noodles halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
For a crispy texture, you can reheat the beef chow fun in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the noodles out on a baking sheet and drizzle them with a small amount of vegetable oil. Bake the noodles for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. Stir the noodles halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a steamer, you can also reheat the beef chow fun using this method. Place the noodles in a heatproof dish and place the dish in the steamer. Steam the noodles for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the noodles and prevents them from drying out.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to add a small amount of soy sauce, sesame oil, or other seasonings to the noodles before reheating to help revive the flavors. You can also add some fresh vegetables, such as bean sprouts or green onions, to the noodles to add some crunch and freshness to the dish.

Fascinating Trivia About Beef Chow Fun

A random fact about this recipe is that shaoxing wine is a traditional Chinese cooking wine made from fermented rice, which adds a unique depth of flavor to the beef chow fun.

Is Making Beef Chow Fun at Home Cost-Effective?

This beef chow fun recipe is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients like flank steak, rice noodles, and vegetable oil are relatively affordable. The use of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger adds flavor without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Beef Chow Fun Healthy or Unhealthy?

This beef chow fun recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes lean protein from the flank steak and nutrient-rich ingredients like garlic, ginger, and bean sprouts. The use of low-sodium soy sauce helps to reduce the overall salt content. However, there are some areas of concern:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of vegetable oil, which is high in calories and may contribute to excessive fat intake.
The use of cornstarch as a thickener adds extra carbohydrates without providing much nutritional value.
While the recipe includes some vegetables, the overall proportion of vegetables to noodles and meat could be higher.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of vegetable oil used in cooking. Instead, use a non-stick pan or wok and a small amount of oil to minimize added fats.
Replace some of the rice noodles with spiralized vegetables like zucchini or carrots to increase the fiber and nutrient content while reducing the carbohydrate load.
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding more bean sprouts, sliced bell peppers, or leafy greens like bok choy.
Use a low-sodium alternative to soy sauce, such as coconut aminos, to further reduce the salt content.
Opt for whole grain rice noodles or brown rice noodles to increase the fiber and nutrient profile of the dish.
Experiment with alternative lean proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to vary the nutrient profile and reduce red meat consumption.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Beef Chow Fun Recipe

This beef chow fun recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The marinated flank steak, seared to perfection, pairs beautifully with the tender rice noodles. The use of shaoxing wine and sesame oil adds depth, while the garlic and ginger provide a fragrant base. The addition of bean sprouts and green onions brings a fresh crunch, making each bite satisfying. The instructions are clear and straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. Overall, it's a well-rounded dish that captures the essence of traditional Chinese cuisine with ease.

Enhance Your Easy Beef Chow Fun Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Crispy Spring Rolls: Imagine biting into a golden, crispy spring roll filled with a medley of vegetables and shrimp. The crunchiness perfectly complements the tender beef chow fun, creating a delightful contrast in textures.

Garlic Bok Choy: A side of garlic bok choy sautéed to perfection adds a burst of green freshness to your meal. The slight bitterness of the bok choy pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the beef chow fun.

Hot and Sour Soup: Warm up with a bowl of hot and sour soup. Its tangy and spicy flavors will awaken your taste buds, providing a perfect prelude to the rich and hearty beef chow fun.

Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with mango sticky rice. The creamy coconut milk and sweet mango slices offer a refreshing contrast to the savory main course, making it a delightful finish.

Cucumber Salad: A cucumber salad with a tangy rice vinegar dressing adds a refreshing crunch. The coolness of the cucumbers balances out the warmth and richness of the beef chow fun, making it a harmonious pairing.

Delicious Alternatives to Beef Chow Fun

Chicken Chow Mein: Dive into a plate of noodles stir-fried with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. This dish is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Shrimp Pad Thai: Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this classic shrimp pad thai. Featuring chewy rice noodles, succulent shrimp, crunchy peanuts, and a tangy tamarind sauce, this dish is a symphony of sweet, sour, and savory.

Pork Lo Mein: Savor the rich taste of pork lo mein, where tender slices of pork are stir-fried with egg noodles, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. This comforting dish is a staple in many Chinese households.

Vegetable Stir-Fry: Enjoy a healthy and vibrant vegetable stir-fry, packed with a variety of fresh veggies like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers. Tossed in a light yet flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.

Beef and Broccoli: Indulge in the classic combination of tender beef and crisp broccoli florets, all coated in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. This dish is a favorite in many Chinese restaurants and can be easily recreated at home.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Beef Chow Fun

Appetizers:

Shrimp Spring Rolls: Delight your guests with these fresh and vibrant Shrimp Spring Rolls. The combination of shrimp, crisp vegetables, and herbs wrapped in rice paper creates a refreshing and light appetizer. Serve with a peanut dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor. These rolls are perfect for a summer gathering or as a light start to any meal.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory Stuffed Mushrooms. Filled with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, these bite-sized delights are baked to perfection. The mushrooms become tender and juicy, while the filling turns golden and bubbly. They are a perfect appetizer for any occasion, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the richness of a molten chocolate center that oozes out as you cut into this decadent treat. The cake's exterior is perfectly baked to a slight crisp, creating a delightful contrast with the gooey interior. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and garnish with fresh berries for a burst of color and flavor. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic coffee-flavored dessert. Layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers are nestled between creamy mascarpone cheese and dusted with a generous amount of cocoa powder. The combination of textures and flavors creates a harmonious balance that is both luxurious and comforting. For an added twist, consider incorporating a hint of liqueur into the coffee mixture. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful interplay of sweetness and bitterness in every bite.

Why trust this Easy Beef Chow Fun Recipe:

This recipe for beef chow fun is a trusted favorite because it uses simple, authentic ingredients like shaoxing wine and sesame oil to deliver rich, traditional flavors. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even beginners can achieve restaurant-quality results. The combination of flank steak and rice noodles creates a satisfying, hearty dish that's perfect for any meal. Plus, the use of fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish. Trust this recipe for a delicious and authentic beef chow fun experience.

Share your thoughts on this Easy Beef Chow Fun Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance the dish!

FAQ:

How do I prevent the rice noodles from sticking together?

To prevent the rice noodles from sticking together, make sure to soak or boil them as instructed, then drain them well. You can also toss them with a little bit of oil to keep them separated.

Can I use a different type of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like sirloin or ribeye. Just make sure to slice them thinly against the grain for tenderness.

What can I use instead of Shaoxing wine?

If you don't have Shaoxing wine, you can substitute it with dry sherry or even a bit of rice vinegar mixed with a pinch of sugar.

How do I know when the beef is cooked properly?

The beef should be seared for about 30 seconds on each side. It should be browned on the outside but still tender and juicy on the inside.

Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just make sure to stir-fry them until they're tender-crisp before adding the noodles and beef.