Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

Ma Yi Shang Shu, or Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef, is a delightful dish that brings the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine right to your table. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory yet satisfying. With tender mung bean vermicelli noodles and ground beef, it’s not only delicious but also adaptable for various occasions. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with steamed rice, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Profile: The combination of ginger, garlic, and doubanjiang creates a rich, aromatic experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, over rice, or even as part of a larger spread for gatherings.
• Customizable Ingredients: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences by using gluten-free substitutes without sacrificing taste.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from the beef and fiber from the vermicelli noodles, this dish is both hearty and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick pan
• Large bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick pan: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while ensuring even cooking.
• Large bowl: Essential for soaking the vermicelli noodles without mess.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements for balanced flavors.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without damaging your cookware.

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Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 4 oz. (110 g) dried mung bean vermicelli noodles

For the Stir Fry

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon doubanjiang

For the Sauce

• 4 oz. (120 g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice)
• 1 teaspoon sugar

How to Make Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

Step 1: Soak the Noodles

Place the vermicelli noodles in a big bowl and add hot water to cover. Soak according to package instructions. If there are no instructions, soak in hot water for 15 minutes. Once done, drain thoroughly and toss with 1/2 tablespoon of oil. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Mix together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat until hot. Add the minced ginger, garlic, and sliced green onion. Cook while stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Add in the ground beef. Cook while breaking it into smaller pieces until fully cooked through, which should take around 2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Doubanjiang

Incorporate the doubanjiang into the pan. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until the beef is evenly coated.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth along with the soaked vermicelli noodles and prepared sauce. Stir several times to mix everything well. Cover and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. After uncovering, stir again to check noodle doneness. If they are still tough, cover and cook for another minute. Once soft, cook uncovered over medium-high heat until liquid evaporates—about 1 minute more. Transfer everything to a plate and serve hot as a main dish.

Enjoy your deliciously crafted Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef!

How to Serve Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and vibrant color.
• Bok Choy: Quick sautéed bok choy complements the flavors of the vermicelli beautifully.

Serve Over Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A fluffy bowl of rice is perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
• Jasmine Rice: The fragrant aroma of jasmine rice pairs well with the dish’s bold flavors.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a fresh herbaceous note to each bite.
• Sliced Chili Peppers: For those who enjoy heat, thin slices of chili peppers can spice things up.

Add a Side Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad balances the richness of the beef and noodles.
• Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a crisp texture contrast.

How to Perfect Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

Achieving the perfect stir-fried vermicelli takes practice, but these tips will guide you along the way.

• Use hot water for soaking: Soaking the vermicelli in hot water ensures they soften evenly before cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of frying.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste as you go to find that perfect balance of flavors; feel free to add more soy sauce or sugar as desired.
• Cook quickly over high heat: High heat allows for quick cooking while keeping ingredients tender yet crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

Adding side dishes enhances your meal and creates a well-rounded dining experience. Here are some great options that pair wonderfully with Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with vegetables provide a delightful crunch.
2. Egg Drop Soup: This light soup is soothing and complements the main dish’s flavors well.
3. Fried Tofu: Golden-brown tofu adds protein and texture, making it a satisfying side.
4. Chili Garlic Edamame: Spicy edamame pods offer a tasty finger food option before the main course.
5. Sesame Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in sesame oil create a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and brings an umami depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef is a delightful dish, but mistakes can happen. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your meal turns out perfectly.

• Using the wrong noodles – Mung bean vermicelli is essential for this recipe. Using wheat noodles can alter the texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the noodles – Follow soaking instructions carefully. Overcooked noodles will become mushy and lose their structure.
• Skipping the oil toss – Always toss soaked noodles in oil before cooking. This prevents them from sticking together during frying.
• Not mixing the sauce well – Ensure all sauce ingredients are combined thoroughly before adding to the pan. A well-mixed sauce ensures even flavor distribution.
• Ignoring heat levels – Cooking on too high or too low heat can affect the dish’s outcome. Medium heat is ideal for cooking beef without burning the aromatics.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure that the dish has cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Allow it to cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals forming.

Reheating Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a nonstick pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a lighter version.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.

What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness depends on how much chili bean paste you use. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat, and adjust according to your taste.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep ingredients ahead of time but it’s best to cook just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef is not only quick but also bursting with flavors that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on personal preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!