There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of spicy beef noodle soup. The aroma dances around, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. It’s been all the buzz on TikTok and Reddit lately, with everyone craving that perfect blend of heat and hearty goodness. Who doesn’t love a cozy, spicy dish to chase away the winter chill?
This soup is a delightful mix of tender beef, rich broth, and noodles that soak up all that flavor. It’s pantry-friendly, easy to whip up, and feels like a hug in a bowlalmost like your grandma’s version, but quicker! Full details in the blog!
Enjoy a bowl of spicy beef noodle soup with tender beef spicy broth noodles that bring warmth and comfort. This easy spicy noodle soup combines rich flavors and authentic spices for a satisfying meal perfect for any time.
Ingredients
Scale
600 g beef cut in cubes 21oz
2 tablespoon cooking oil
4 cloves garlic minced
3 tablespoon Sichuan chilli bean paste see note 1
½ teaspoon chilli powder
1500 ml hot water 6½ cups
1 thumb-sized ginger
2 stalks scallions cut in sections
1 bay leaf
1 star-anise
1 small piece Chinese cinnamon/cassia cinnamon
10 Sichuan pepper
1 pinch fennel seeds
½ teaspoon sugar
4 portions noodles see note 2
Spinach or pak choi or bok choy
Fresh coriander chopped
Instructions
Place the beef cubes in a pot of water and heat until boiling. Scoop off any foam or impurities from the surface. Drain the beef and set aside in the pot.
Warm the cooking oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, Sichuan chilli bean paste, and chilli powder, stirring until the aroma is released but not burnt.
Pour in the hot water and cover, letting it simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Strain the spiced liquid through a sieve into the pot with the beef. Add the ginger, scallions, bay leaf, star-anise, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, fennel seeds, and sugar. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to keep it simmering for around 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender. Remove and discard the ginger, scallions, and spices.
Cook the noodles separately in boiling water. Near the end, blanch the spinach or pak choi in the same pot. Drain and rinse both noodles and greens briefly under cold water.
To serve, divide the noodles and vegetables among bowls, ladle in the broth, top with beef cubes, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh coriander. Serve at once.
Notes
Different brands of Sichuan chilli bean paste vary in saltiness and texture so adjust quantity as preferred
Best use Pixian Douban chopped coarsely before cooking
Fresh or dried noodles can be used
cook about 80-100g dried noodles per person
Avoid boiling noodles in beef broth to keep broth clarity
Using a tea strainer helps keep spices contained for easy removal
Freeze cooked meat and soup up to one month and reheat before serving
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:1 hour 10 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Chinese
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 bowl
Calories:450 kcal
Sugar:4g
Sodium:900mg
Fat:18g
Saturated Fat:6g
Unsaturated Fat:9g
Trans Fat:0g
Carbohydrates:35g
Fiber:3g
Protein:35g
Cholesterol:80mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Oh my, where do I begin with our beloved spicy beef noodle soup? This dish has become a staple in our home, especially during those chilly evenings when a warm hug in a bowl is just what the doctor ordered. The blend of tender beef, spicy broth, and cozy noodles practically invites you to gather around the table with family and friends.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also wonderfully adaptable! You can adjust the spice level to suit your family’s tastego a bit easier on the chilies if you have little ones, or amp it up if you’re feeling adventurous! Ever since I started making this dish, my family has been raving about it, reminding me of how comforting home-cooked meals can be.
Key Ingredients & Tools
Let’s chat about what you need for this cozy creation. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making it a breeze to throw together on a weeknight. Here’s what you’ll need:
Beef: Tender beef cubes are your star. Look for a good cut that will hold up while simmering in that spicy broth.
Sichuan chilli bean paste: This magical ingredient adds depth and a spicy kick! Don’t skip it!
No noodles! Just kidding, we need those! Fresh or dried noodles are perfect for soaking up all those delicious flavors.
Cooking tools: A big pot for stewing, a wok for cooking the broth, and a good kitchen knifeessential for chopping your ingredients.
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to dive into making your own spicy beef noodle soup? It’s as easy as pie (or should I say, noodle soup)! Here’s how to whip it up:
Blanch the beef: Toss the beef cubes into a pot of boiling water, remove any scum that forms, then drain and set it aside.
Cook the soup base: In your wok, heat up oil, stir in minced garlic, the Sichuan chilli bean paste, and a pinch of chili powder. Cook until it’s fragrantmy kitchen smells like a cozy restaurant at this point!
Simmer the beef: Pour the spicy broth over the beef, add the ginger, scallions, and seasonings. Let it simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.
Prepare the noodles: While your soup is workin’ its magic, cook the noodles per package instructions. Don’t forget to quickly blanch your greens in the same water!
Assemble and serve: In a bowl, layer the noodles, top with beef, pour the savory broth, and sprinkle with fresh coriander. Voilà!
Easy Customizations
This dish is so flexible you can have a little fun with it! Here are some ways to customize your spicy beef noodle soup:
Add veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can brighten up your bowl!
Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of chilli bean paste and add fresh chilies for an extra kick.
Switch up the herbs: Fresh basil or mint can lend a different twist to the flavor.
How to Serve & Store
Once your lovely soup is ready, you can enjoy it immediately! But if you find yourself with leftovers (which might be tough!), here’s how to store it:
Storage Method
Tips
Refrigerate
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze
This soup freezes beautifully for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the broth has thickened. Serve hot, and watch everyone gather around the table, craving that warmth once more!
Expert Says
Incorporating spices like chili and garlic in your spicy beef noodle soup not only enhances flavor but also boosts the soup’s antioxidant properties. These ingredients can aid in digestion and add a warm heat that uplifts the overall experience, making each bowl both comforting and nourishing.
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The Long Road to Spicy Beef Noodle Soup
This spicy beef noodle soup took a few rounds of trial and error, trust me! I once ended up with a bowl of what tasted like hot sauce and cardboard. But after playing with spices and simmering techniques, I finally found the balance – comforting and packed with flavor, just like a bowl my grandma used to make.
FAQs ( Spicy beef noodle soup )
What kind of noodles should I use?
For the best results, use fresh or dried wheat noodles like Chinese egg noodles or ramen. These noodles have a nice chew that complements the broth. Avoid thin noodles like rice vermicelli, as they may become mushy in the broth.
How long does it take to cook the broth?
The broth typically requires at least 1.5 to 2 hours to develop a rich flavor. Simmering the beef with spices in water brings out deep, savory notes. For a more intense flavor, consider simmering it longer, up to four hours.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, this meal can be made in advance. Cook the broth and noodles separately, then store them in airtight containers. Reheat the broth and cook the noodles just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
What vegetables should I add?
Add vegetables like bok choy, mushrooms, or bean sprouts for added flavor and nutrition. These not only enhance the taste but also add color and texture to the dish, making it visually appealing.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. While the recipe provides a good amount of heat from Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil, you can always reduce the quantity or substitute with milder alternatives if needed.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this spicy beef noodle soup transforms into a steaming bowl of comfort, all in about 1.5 hours. The tender beef, aromatic broth, and cozy noodles come together to create a dish that feels like a warm embrace on chilly nights. Trust me, this is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to!
Want to kick it up a notch? Try adding some steamed bok choy or a splash of lime juice for brightness! If you have leftovers (which might be a challenge), they keep well in the fridge for up to three daysjust reheat gently, adding a splash of water for that fresh taste. A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen: soup always tastes better the next day!
I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Did you grow up with something like this? Snap a photo of your creation, share it with your friends, and keep the cozy vibes alive. Save this recipe for the next cold day, and let’s keep the love for home-cooked meals alive together!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
