Beef Noodle Soup: A Comforting and Hearty Family Lunch

Beef Noodle Soup: A Comforting and Hearty Family Lunch
Introduction: Beef Noodle Soup is a warm and nourishing dish that brings together tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles in a comforting bowl. Perfect for a family lunch, this soup is filling and delicious, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, Beef Noodle Soup is an ideal choice for a cozy, budget-friendly meal.
Story Behind the Dish: Beef Noodle Soup has been enjoyed in various forms across many cultures, from the hearty beef and vegetable soups of Europe to the rich and aromatic pho of Vietnam. This dish is beloved for its ability to provide comfort and warmth, especially during colder months. The combination of tender beef, savory broth, and chewy noodles makes it a go-to meal for families seeking both nourishment and flavor. Whether served as a simple lunch or as part of a larger meal, Beef Noodle Soup is a timeless dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
For the Beef Noodle Soup:
1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
8 cups beef broth or water
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
8 oz (225 g) egg noodles or rice noodles
1/4 cup fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
Lime wedges
Soy sauce or chili oil for extra seasoning
A glass of iced tea or a light beer
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces and brown them on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced ginger. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Build the Broth:
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the sliced carrots and celery, followed by the beef broth or water. Stir in the soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), ground black pepper, and ground cumin.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
4. Cook the Noodles:
While the soup is simmering, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Finish the Soup:
Once the beef is tender, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce or pepper if needed.
To serve, place a portion of cooked noodles in each bowl, then ladle the hot beef broth and vegetables over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions.
6. Serve:
Serve the Beef Noodle Soup hot, with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness. Offer soy sauce or chili oil at the table for those who like a bit more seasoning.
Serving Tips:
Beef Noodle Soup is best enjoyed fresh and hot, straight from the pot. Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or a light beer for a complete meal. For added flavor, squeeze a lime wedge over the soup before eating, and adjust the seasoning with soy sauce or chili oil to taste.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 400
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Sugars: 6g
Shortcuts & Tips:
Time Saver: Use store-bought beef broth to save time on preparation. Pre-chopped vegetables and pre-cooked beef can also reduce prep time.
Make it Ahead: The beef broth can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and cook the noodles.
Leftovers: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
Final Thoughts: Beef Noodle Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family lunch. With its tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles, this soup offers a warm and nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or as a simple yet delicious lunch, Beef Noodle Soup is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table.