There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling pot of broth warming up on the stove. This spicy beef noodle soup is like a hug in a bowl, and it’s trending for good reason! It’s comforting, vibrant, and just the ticket for cozy nights in.
Think hearty beef simmered to perfection with a kick of spice, all nestled with tender noodles. It’s simplicity at its bestlike the comforting soups of your childhood, but ready in under an hour. And the beauty? This dish uses pantry staples and is perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a little warmth.
I started making this cozy soup on cold winter weekends back in 2020, when we all craved comfort food. A friend asked for the recipe after tasting it, and I realized I had something special. The trick is letting the beef marinate for just 15 minutesit really brings out the flavor. I’ve been sharing it ever since in my kitchen adventures!
Yesica Andrews
Spicy Beef Noodle Soup Recipe Everyone Loves
Enjoy a comforting bowl of spicy beef noodle soup featuring tender beef spicy broth noodles that warm you from the inside out. This easy spicy noodle soup offers a fragrant and hot experience with authentic Sichuan flavors that everyone will love.
Place the beef cubes in a pot of water and bring it to a rolling boil to remove impurities. Drain and transfer the beef back to the pot.
Heat cooking oil in a wok or deep pan over medium heat, then add minced garlic, Sichuan chilli bean paste, and chilli powder. Stir and cook until the aroma develops without burning.
Pour in the hot water, cover the wok or pan, and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
Strain the spiced soup through a sieve into the pot with the beef. Add ginger, scallions, bay leaf, star-anise, cinnamon piece, Sichuan pepper, fennel seeds, and sugar.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours until the beef is tender. Remove and discard the ginger, scallions, and whole spices.
Cook the noodles in a separate pot with plenty of boiling water. At the end of cooking, quickly blanch the spinach or pak choi in the same pot. Drain and rinse both noodles and vegetables under cold water briefly.
Divide noodles and vegetables into serving bowls. Ladle the hot broth over them, top with tender beef cubes, and garnish with fresh coriander. Serve right away for the best taste.
Notes
Different brands of Sichuan chilli bean paste vary in saltiness and heat, so adjust the amount as needed. For best results, use Pixian Douban that is coarsely chopped. Use fresh or dried noodles according to package instructions but avoid cooking noodles in the beef broth to maintain its flavor and clarity. Consider using a tea strainer to contain spices for easy removal after simmering. You can freeze leftover meat and broth for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Beef Noodle Soup
Comfort in a Bowl: There’s something about a hearty soup that feels like a warm hug. This spicy beef noodle soup wraps you in warmth and flavor.
Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with tender beef and fresh greens, it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a comforting choice for your wellness.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners diving into the world of cozy soups.
Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to bring everyone to the table. The spiciness can be adjusted to suit the little ones as well!
Key Ingredients and Tools
This soup uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients you’ll find at your local grocery store:
600g of beef cubes, full of flavor when stewed just right
Sichuan chilli bean paste for that gourmet touch of spice
A few aromatic spices: star anise, bay leaf, and cinnamon, to elevate your broth
Fresh scallions and ginger to add depth
Noodles and a generous handful of spinach or bok choy to complete the dish
Kitchen Tools: You’ll need a pot for stewing the beef, a wok or deep frying pan for sautéing, and a sieve to strain the broth.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Let’s break it down simply, so you can feel confident as you stir up this cozy delight:
Blanch the Beef: Start by boiling the beef to remove impurities; it’s a step that ensures your broth is clean and rich.
Prepare the Soup Base: Sauté garlic with the Sichuan chilli bean paste for a fragrant kick before adding hot water.
Simmer the Goodness: Combine the spiced broth with the beef, ginger, and spices, letting it cook until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Cook the Noodles: In a separate pot, boil the noodles and blanch the greens for a lovely pop of color and nutrition.
Assemble Your Bowl: Layer the noodles and greens, add the star of the showbeefand pour over the spicy broth!
Tweaks and Troubleshooting
No two kitchens or taste buds are the same! Here are a few adjustments and tips:
Adjust the Heat: Modify the spice level by using less Sichuan chilli bean paste or opting for a milder variety.
Vegetarian Option: You could use mushroom broth and tofu instead of beef for a meat-free twist.
Thickening the Broth: For a thicker broth, add a splash of soy sauce or cornstarch slurry to the simmering soup.
Serving and Storage Tips
This soup is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep! Here’s how to make the most of it:
Serving: Serve immediately for the best texture, but feel free to customize with extra toppings like lime wedges or chopped peanuts.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a monthjust make sure to separate the broth from the noodles!
Timing
Process
10 mins
Prep ingredients and blanch beef.
5 mins
Sauté garlic and spices.
1 hr
Simmer beef in spiced broth.
5 mins
Cook noodles and blanch greens.
5 mins
Assemble and serve!
Expert Says
The rich, bold flavors in spicy beef noodle soup come from a combination of slow-cooking the beef and simmering the broth with aromatic spices. This method not only enhances the taste but also allows for the extraction of collagen, contributing to a luscious, satisfying mouthfeel that complements the noodles beautifully.
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The Warmth of Spicy Beef Noodle Soup
After several attempts in my kitchen, I finally found the magic balance for my spicy beef noodle soup. I learned the hard way that too much chili can overpower, yet just the right amount brings memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Now, it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that I can’t wait to share.
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 wraps you in warmth with every sip! In just an hour, you’ll create a comforting dish that fills your home with irresistible aromas.
Feel free to adjust the spice level to fit your family’s taste, and try adding extra vegetables for a nutritious twist. A little tip I gathered from my aunt’s kitchen: it’s even better the next day, so make a double batch if you can!
Did you grow up enjoying cozy soups like this? I’d love to hear your stories and see your creationsdon’t forget to share or save this recipe for your loved ones. Together, let’s make mealtime magical!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
