Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup

Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

For the Beef:

• 2 pounds beef shank or brisket, cut into large chunks
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 star anise
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup dark soy sauce (optional, for richer color)
• 1/4 cup rice wine or Shaoxing wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili bean paste (Doubanjiang) (optional, for spice)
• 8 cups beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon rock sugar or brown sugar

For the Noodles and Garnishes:

• 12 ounces fresh or dried wheat noodles or rice noodles
• 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh chili slices (optional)
• Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chunks and sear on all sides until browned. This helps to lock in the flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

1. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant and the onions are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the star anise and cinnamon stick and stir to combine.

3. Create the Broth:

1. Return the beef to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), rice wine, tomato paste, and chili bean paste (if using).
2. Pour in the beef broth or water and add the rock sugar. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer the Soup:

1. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
2. Let the soup simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Cook the Noodles:

1. While the soup is simmering, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

6. Assemble the Dish:

1. To serve, place a portion of the cooked noodles into each bowl.
2. Ladle the hot beef and broth over the noodles.
3. Garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and fresh chili slices if desired.
4. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Enjoy:

1. Serve the beef noodle soup hot and enjoy the rich, savory broth with the tender beef and noodles.

Tips:

• Flavor Adjustments: Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more soy sauce or chili paste for a stronger flavor.
• Beef Choice: Beef shank is traditionally used for its rich flavor and tender texture after long cooking, but brisket or short ribs can also be used.
• Noodles: Use wheat noodles for a more authentic experience, but rice noodles are a good gluten-free alternative.

This Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a satisfying meal with deep, complex flavors. Enjoy!