Fakeaway Chow Fun Noodles with Beef

Chow Fun is a beloved Cantonese dish featuring wide rice noodles stir-fried with tender beef and a flavorful soy-based sauce. This Fakeaway Chow Fun Noodles with Beef recipe brings restaurant-quality taste straight to your kitchen, offering a healthier, homemade alternative to takeout. With its combination of savory umami flavors, perfectly seared beef, and chewy rice noodles, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier than takeout – You control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and less oily dish.
• Quick and easy – This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Authentic flavors – The rich umami taste of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a restaurant-quality experience.
• Minimal ingredients – Requires only a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, add vegetables, or use a different protein for variation.

Ingredients

• Beef (flank steak or sirloin)
• Wide rice noodles (ho fun)
• Soy sauce (light and dark)
• Oyster sauce
• Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• Cornstarch
• Baking soda
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Scallions
• Bean sprouts
• Sesame oil
• Vegetable oil
• Sugar
• White pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
2. In a bowl, mix the beef with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch, baking soda, and a bit of oil. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Noodles

1. If using fresh rice noodles, separate them carefully to avoid breakage.
2. If using dried noodles, soak them in warm water according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Beef

1. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Sear the beef in a single layer for about 30 seconds per side until just browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics

1. Add more oil to the wok if needed and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
2. Toss in the scallions, cooking for a few seconds until softened.

5. Stir-Fry the Noodles

1. Add the prepared rice noodles to the wok and drizzle with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a pinch of sugar.
2. Stir-fry gently to coat the noodles evenly, being careful not to break them.

6. Combine Everything

1. Return the beef to the wok and toss everything together.
2. Add bean sprouts and a dash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
3. Stir-fry for another minute until everything is well combined and heated through.

7. Serve

1. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with extra scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
2. Enjoy immediately while hot.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with tofu or mushrooms for a plant-based version.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced chili peppers or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Extra Veggies: Include bok choy, bell peppers, or carrots for more texture and nutrition.
• Different Proteins: Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or even pork.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 2-3 people

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to revive the flavors. Avoid microwaving as it can make the noodles gummy.

FAQs

1. What type of noodles should I use for Chow Fun?

Wide rice noodles (ho fun) are traditional, but you can substitute with pad Thai noodles if unavailable.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce substitutes.

3. How do I prevent the noodles from breaking?

Handle them gently and avoid over-stirring. If using dried noodles, soak them properly to maintain elasticity.

4. What is the secret to tender beef?

Marinating with baking soda and cornstarch helps break down the fibers, making the beef more tender.

5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the beef and prepare the sauce in advance, but stir-fry everything fresh for the best texture.

6. Why do my noodles stick together?

If using fresh noodles, gently separate them before cooking. For dried noodles, avoid over-soaking.

7. Can I make Chow Fun without a wok?

Yes! A large nonstick skillet works fine, but a wok provides better heat distribution.

8. What’s the best oil for stir-frying?

Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, peanut, or avocado oil.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as the noodles can become mushy upon thawing.

10. How do I get the smoky restaurant-style flavor?

Use high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve the characteristic “wok hei” flavor.

Conclusion

This Fakeaway Chow Fun Noodles with Beef recipe is an easy and delicious way to enjoy a classic Chinese takeout dish at home. With its tender beef, savory sauce, and chewy rice noodles, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests with your stir-fry skills, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Give it a try and bring the taste of authentic Cantonese cuisine to your table!

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