Crispy beef with noodles and Asian-style salad

Crispy Beef with Noodles and Asian-Style Salad

Welcome to the world of Asian delights! Today, I invite you to discover a savory recipe that combines the crispiness of beef with the freshness of salad and the intense flavors of Asian ingredients. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 1 tablespoon unsalted, raw peanuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- A 5 cm piece of ginger
- 2 star anise
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 200 grams organic, lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 2 limes
- 150 grams noodles
- 2 green onions
- 1 chili (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 carrot
- 200 grams mixed salad leaves
- 4 sprigs of cilantro

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the peanuts:
Start by toasting the peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Peanuts are tastier and more aromatic when toasted, so don't skip this step! Once they turn golden, transfer them to a mortar and crush them lightly until they become small pieces. These will add a wonderful crunchy texture to your dish.

2. Preparing the aromatic ingredients:
Peel the ginger and garlic, then chop them finely. These ingredients are essential for giving the dish a complex and pleasant aroma.

3. Cooking the meat:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil. Add the star anise, which will release its essential oils, bringing a deep flavor. Immediately after, add the ground beef and mix well. After a few minutes, add the honey and half of the chopped ginger and garlic. Continue to cook over high heat for 5 minutes until the meat is crispy and well browned.

4. Preparing the dressing:
While the meat is cooking, use the mortar to turn the remaining ginger and garlic into a fine paste. In a small bowl, combine this paste with the fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice. This dressing will add a vibrant and fresh taste to your dish.

5. Cooking the noodles:
Boil the noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, the cooking time is about 3-5 minutes, depending on the type of noodles. Make sure not to overcook them to maintain their texture.

6. Preparing the salad:
Cut the carrot into julienne strips and add it over the salad leaves, mixing gently to combine. This will add a crunchy and colorful note to your plate.

7. Assembling the plate:
Divide the noodles between the two plates. Place the salad with carrot on top, followed by the crispy beef. Drizzle everything with the prepared dressing. For a pleasing appearance, add the chopped green onions, cilantro leaves, and crushed toasted peanuts.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the meat: Opt for organic, lean beef for a healthier dish. It will taste better and be more nutritious.
- Vegetable variations: You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to enrich the salad. These will not only add color but also extra nutrients.
- Adjusting the spices: If you prefer a spicier taste, add more chili or even a hot sauce. You can also reduce the amount of soy sauce to control the sodium.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, with about 500 calories per serving. Beef is a good source of protein, while fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Peanuts add healthy fats and a crunchy texture, while ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use another type of meat? Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Can I prepare the dressing in advance? Yes, you can prepare the dressing a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. The flavors will intensify, making it even tastier.
- How can I serve this dish? This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a light beer. Additionally, fresh lemonade is an excellent choice to complement the flavors of this dish.

Final Notes:

This Crispy Beef with Noodles and Asian-Style Salad recipe is perfect for impressing friends or family. With a mix of flavors and textures, it's a meal that will always bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. I encourage you to play with the ingredients, experiment, and personalize your dish. Bon appétit!