Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Cantonese cuisine! This irresistible Crispy Cantonese Beef Chow Mein is not just a meal, it's a sensational experience that combines tender, crispy beef, perfectly cooked noodles, and a vibrant mix of vegetables. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food lover craving an authentic Asian dish, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality flavors right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cantonese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 300g beef, sliced thin
- 200g chow mein noodles
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, bean sprouts)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 300g of thinly sliced beef, 200g of chow mein noodles, 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts), 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- While the beef is marinating, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the chow mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer. Allow it to sear without moving it for about 2-3 minutes until it develops a crispy exterior. Stir-fry the beef for another 2-3 minutes until it is cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- In the same wok, add a bit more oil if necessary, and toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp. You can add a splash of water to help steam the vegetables if needed.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cooked chow mein noodles to the wok. Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated and heated through.
- Return the crispy beef to the wok and mix well with the noodles and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Once everything is heated through and well combined, remove the wok from heat. Serve the crispy Cantonese beef chow mein hot, garnished with additional bean sprouts or sliced green onions if desired.
Tips
- Slice the beef as thinly as possible for the most tender and crispy result. Partially freezing the meat for 15-20 minutes can help you achieve thinner, more uniform slices.
- High heat is crucial for achieving that signature crispy beef texture. Make sure your wok or pan is very hot before adding the meat to ensure proper searing.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve a crispy exterior.
- For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the beef marinade.
- Use fresh, crisp vegetables to maintain texture and vibrant color in your chow mein.
- Rinse the noodles in cold water after cooking to prevent them from becoming sticky and to stop the cooking process.
- If you want a bit more sauce, you can add a splash of oyster sauce or sesame oil when stir-frying for additional depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
