Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your senses straight to the heart of Szechuan cuisine! This Spicy Szechuan Beef Noodles recipe is not just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a sauce so bold it'll make your taste buds dance. Perfect for those who crave a little heat and a lot of excitement in their kitchen, this dish promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary gastronomic experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 8 oz noodles
- 1/4 cup Szechuan sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by thinly slicing the beef against the grain, mincing garlic, and slicing bell pepper into thin strips. Ensure broccoli florets are cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent further cooking, then set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Add thinly sliced beef to the hot pan and stir-fry quickly for 2-3 minutes until the meat is browned and mostly cooked through.
- Add bell pepper and broccoli florets to the wok, continuing to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Pour Szechuan sauce over the beef and vegetables, tossing to coat evenly and ensure everything is well-glazed.
- Add cooked noodles to the wok and gently toss everything together, ensuring noodles are heated through and coated with sauce.
- Transfer to serving plates, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro as garnish.
- Serve immediately while hot, with extra Szechuan sauce on the side if desired for additional heat.
Tips
- Slice the beef against the grain: This ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat that's easy to chew.
- High heat is key: Use a wok or large skillet on high heat to achieve that classic stir-fry sear and prevent ingredients from becoming soggy.
- Prep before cooking: Have all ingredients chopped and ready, as stir-frying happens quickly.
- Don't overcook the beef: 2-3 minutes is all you need to keep it juicy and tender.
- Customize the heat: Adjust the amount of Szechuan sauce to match your spice tolerance.
- Fresh is best: Use fresh garlic and crisp vegetables for maximum flavor and texture.
- Sesame seeds and cilantro are more than just garnish – they add crucial texture and freshness to the final dish.Pro tip: If you can't find Szechuan sauce, you can make a quick version by mixing chili oil, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 75mg
