Beef Mango Cashew Noodles: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Prawn noodles, a symphony of oceanic sweetness and savory depth, are about to become your new culinary obsession. Imagine this: plump, juicy prawns, bathed in a rich, umami-packed broth, clinging to perfectly cooked noodles. Are you hungry yet? I know I am just thinking about it!

This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. While variations abound across Southeast Asia, the essence remains the same: a celebration of the sea’s bounty. Some believe the dish originated as a humble street food, a quick and satisfying meal for hardworking laborers. Others trace its roots to more refined kitchens, where chefs sought to showcase the delicate flavor of fresh prawns.

What makes prawn noodles so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of textures – the springy noodles, the succulent prawns, and the often-crispy fried shallots that adorn the top. But beyond texture, it’s the flavor that truly captivates. The broth, often simmered for hours with prawn heads and shells, boasts an unparalleled depth of flavor. It’s a comforting, soul-warming dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick and satisfying lunch. So, let’s dive in and create this culinary masterpiece together!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Beef:
• 1.5 lbs Beef Sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch
• 1 tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar (or dry sherry)
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil
• 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger
• 1/4 tsp White Pepper
• 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil, for stir-frying
• For the Mango Cashew Sauce:
• 1 large ripe Mango, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup Cashews, roasted and lightly salted
• 1/4 cup Chicken Broth (low sodium)
• 2 tbsp Honey
• 1 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 1 tbsp Lime Juice
• 1 tsp Sriracha (or more, to taste)
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• 1/2 inch Ginger, grated
• For the Noodles and Vegetables:
• 1 lb Lo Mein Noodles (or spaghetti, linguine)
• 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Snow Peas, trimmed
• 1/2 cup Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame Seeds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Beef:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, cornstarch, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and white pepper.
2. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. This marinade will help tenderize the beef and add flavor.
3. Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Making the Mango Cashew Sauce:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the diced mango, roasted cashews, chicken broth, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more honey. For a spicier sauce, add more sriracha.
3. Set the sauce aside. If you’re making it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Cooking the Noodles and Vegetables:

1. Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package directions. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become mushy. You want them to be al dente.
2. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also prevent them from sticking together.
3. Toss the noodles with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to keep them from clumping. Set aside.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and snow peas to the wok. Stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain some of their crunch.
6. Remove the vegetables from the wok and set aside.

Stir-Frying the Beef:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in the same wok or skillet over high heat.
2. Add the marinated beef to the wok in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the wok, as this will lower the temperature and cause the beef to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the beef in batches.
3. Stir-fry the beef for 2-3 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it will become tough.
4. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Return the cooked vegetables and beef to the wok.
2. Pour the mango cashew sauce over the beef and vegetables.
3. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and evenly coats the beef and vegetables.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the wok.
5. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly, until everything is heated through.

Serving:

1. Divide the beef mango cashew noodles among serving plates.
2. Garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, and sesame seeds (if using).
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Beef Substitutions: You can substitute the beef sirloin with other cuts of beef, such as flank steak or skirt steak. You can also use chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking. If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the sriracha altogether.
• Nut Allergies: If you have a nut allergy, you can substitute the cashews with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the mango cashew sauce and marinate the beef ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Enjoy your homemade Beef Mango Cashew Noodles! This recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the cashews. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Conclusion:

This Beef Mango Cashew Noodles recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures that will transport your taste buds. The tender beef, sweet mango, crunchy cashews, and perfectly cooked noodles all come together in a symphony of deliciousness. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s incredibly easy to make, even on busy evenings. The recipe is designed to be quick and efficient, using readily available ingredients. But more than that, it’s the sheer joy of eating something so fresh and exciting. The sweetness of the mango perfectly complements the savory beef, while the cashews add a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish. It’s a complete meal in one bowl, packed with protein, vitamins, and a whole lot of flavor.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own preferences. If you’re not a fan of beef, you can easily substitute it with chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. You could also try using different types of noodles, such as udon or soba, for a unique twist.

Serving suggestions are endless! This Beef Mango Cashew Noodles dish is fantastic served hot, straight from the wok. But it’s also delicious cold, making it a perfect option for lunchboxes or picnics. Garnish with some fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving can also brighten up the dish and add a zesty touch. For a more substantial meal, serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

And don’t forget the drinks! A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with the flavors of this dish. Alternatively, a refreshing glass of iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lime would also be a great choice.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your experience! So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch. Cooking should be fun, and this recipe is the perfect opportunity to unleash your inner chef.

Once you’ve tried it, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you’ve tried. Did you add any extra spices? Did you use a different type of noodle? Did you serve it with a particular side dish? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to improve my recipes and create even more delicious dishes for you to enjoy.

So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give this Beef Mango Cashew Noodles recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Happy cooking!