Best beef chow fun in a skillet

Introduction

When hunger strikes and you’re craving something hearty and delicious, few dishes hit the spot quite like beef chow fun. This classic Chinese dish combines tender beef, chewy rice noodles, and crisp vegetables, all stir-fried together in a flavorful sauce. And the best part? You can whip it up right in your own kitchen, using just a skillet and a few simple ingredients.

What is Beef Chow Fun?

Beef chow fun, also known as beef ho fun or beef fried flat noodles, is a popular Cantonese dish made with wide rice noodles, beef, and vegetables. It’s a staple in many Chinese restaurants and is loved for its savory flavors and satisfying texture.

Why Make it in a Skillet?

While beef chow fun is traditionally cooked in a wok, you can easily make a delicious version right in your trusty skillet. Using a skillet allows for even cooking and makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s a great option for those who don’t have access to a wok or prefer using a more familiar cooking vessel.

Ingredients

Marinade

• 1/2 pound (226 grams) beef flank, skirt, sirloin, or tenderloin
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar

Stir Fry

• 1 batch broccolini (or 1 small head broccoli), tough ends removed and chopped into bite-sized pieces (optional)
• 7 ounces (200 grams) wide dried rice noodles
• 3 tablespoons peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1/4 white onion, sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef against the grain into 1/8-inch (1/3-cm) thick pieces or 1/4-inch (1/2-cm) strips. Transfer the beef to a small bowl and add the light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Gently mix until the beef is coated and let it marinate for 15 minutes.
2. Make the Sauce: Combine all the sauce ingredients with 2 tablespoons of water. Mix well and set aside.
3. Blanch the Broccolini: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the broccolini (or broccoli) until tender, about 1 minute. Drain and set aside, reserving the boiling water to cook the noodles.
4. Cook the Rice Noodles: Cook or soak the rice noodles according to the instructions until cooked through but still chewy inside. Rinse with cold water, drain, and toss with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking.
5. Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef until browned on both sides but still slightly pink inside. Transfer to a plate.
6. Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil and cook the garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant, about 15 seconds.
7. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss with oil. If the noodles stick, add 2 tablespoons of water. Return the beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Toss everything together.
8. Finish and Serve: Add the green onions, bean sprouts, and cooked broccolini to the skillet. If using, swirl in the sesame oil. Toss until everything is well combined, then serve hot.

Notes

• You can use regular soy sauce instead of light/dark soy sauce, but note that the dish will have a lighter color.
• While not traditional, adding extra vegetables like broccolini can make this dish a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 of 2 servings

• Calories: 484 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45.9 g
• Protein: 30.4 g
• Fat: 20.9 g
• Cholesterol: 42 mg
• Sodium: 1007 mg
• Fiber: 4.8 g
• Sugar: 5.2 g
• Calcium: 110 mg
• Iron: 4 mg

Tips for Success

• Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables; you want them to be tender but still have a bit of crunch.
• Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or add-ins, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or baby corn.
• For an extra kick of flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil before serving.

Conclusion

With just a few simple ingredients and a skillet, you can create a mouthwatering dish of beef chow fun right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just satisfying a craving, this recipe is sure to please. So grab your skillet and get cooking – the best beef chow fun awaits!