Thai Basil Beef Noodles

Whenever I find myself craving something quick, savory, and full of flavor, I think of Thai Basil Beef Noodles. Picture this: it’s a busy evening, and the clock is ticking down to dinner time. I need a meal that doesn’t just satisfy my hunger but also delivers that wonderful taste of Thai cuisine that I adore. This dish is perfect for such moments. Within just thirty minutes, I can whip up a flavorful bowl that features tender slices of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic herbs, all tossed together with perfectly cooked noodles. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, Thai Basil Beef Noodles always hits the spot. I love the way the fragrant basil and the slight heat from the chili sauce dance together, creating a symphony of flavors that warms my heart and delights my palate.

What’s In This Thai Basil Beef Noodles

When it comes to the ingredients of Thai Basil Beef Noodles, each plays a significant role in creating a harmonious flavor profile. The essence of this dish lies in the combination of fresh produce, aromatic sauces, and tender meat that come together beautifully. Let’s dive into the key players that make this dish spectacular.

• 6 ounces Pad Thai/wide rice noodles: These noodles are the base of the dish, providing a satisfying chewiness that pairs perfectly with the beef and sauce.
• 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce: This salty, umami-rich sauce enhances the overall flavor of the dish, adding depth and a savory kick.
• 1/4 cup Thai chili sauce: For a hint of sweetness and heat, this sauce is essential in bringing the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce: A staple in Thai cooking, fish sauce adds an extra layer of umami richness that elevates the dish.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: This ingredient provides a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the meats and sauces.
• 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste (optional): Adds a fragrant, citrusy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Black pepper and chili flakes: These spices add warmth and a bit of heat that can be adjusted to taste.
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil): Used for cooking, this oil imparts a delicious nutty flavor.
• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced: The star protein of this dish, providing tenderness and flavor.
• 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced: These add sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons butter, sliced: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
• 1 shallot, sliced: A milder onion flavor that adds sweetness without overpowering.
• 4-6 cloves garlic, chopped: Essential for aroma and flavor, garlic is a must-have in any savory dish.
• 1 tablespoon chopped pickled ginger: Adds a unique zing that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro or Thai basil: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish and add a fragrant aroma.
• 4 green onions, chopped: These add a fresh, crisp element to the dish.
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1/3 cup roasted peanuts, chopped: For additional crunch and a hint of nuttiness.

How to Cook Thai Basil Beef Noodles

Cooking Thai Basil Beef Noodles is a straightforward process that anyone can master, and I can’t wait to share it with you! This recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without a lengthy cooking period. Let’s get started!

1. Start by soaking the rice noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re soft, drain them and set aside for later. This ensures they’ll cook perfectly without becoming mushy.
2. Next, let’s whip up the sauce. In a bowl, combine the tamari or soy sauce, Thai chili sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, lemongrass paste, black pepper, and chili flakes. Mix until well combined, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that will coat the noodles beautifully.
3. Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once hot, toss in the flank steak and bell peppers. Cook for about five minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is nicely browned and crispy.
4. Next, add one tablespoon of butter, the shallot, 3 cloves of garlic, and the pickled ginger. Stir these ingredients together, allowing the garlic to sauté until it turns golden, which should take about one to two minutes.
5. Once everything is combined, add the soaked noodles along with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the noodles are coated in the sauce and heated through, which should take about one minute. Remove the skillet from the heat.
6. Add in the cilantro or Thai basil, and green onions, tossing everything again to combine the flavors. The freshness of the herbs is what makes this dish shine!
7. In a separate small skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter along with one clove of chopped garlic and the sesame seeds. Cook until the seeds are toasted, about five minutes. This will add a lovely crunch to your final dish.
8. Now it’s time to serve! Plate the Thai Basil Beef Noodles, topping each serving with the toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and chopped peanuts. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime juice for that refreshing zing!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to make Thai Basil Beef Noodles your own, I’ve got some fantastic tips! Whether you want to play with flavors or just adapt to what you have on hand, this dish is very versatile.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles to maintain texture.
• Pairing: Consider serving alongside a simple cucumber salad or a light soup for a complete meal.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with tofu and ensure the sauces used are vegetarian-friendly for a delicious alternative.
• Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like mint or Thai basil to give the dish a fresh twist.

What Complements This Thai Basil Beef Noodles

Serving Thai Basil Beef Noodles can be a delightful experience, especially when you think about the perfect accompaniments. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Thai Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp contrast to the warm noodles.
• Fresh Spring Rolls: Light and healthy, they pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of the beef noodles.
• Light Soup: A broth-based soup can provide a comforting element alongside the noodles.
• Seasonal Fruits: A platter of tropical fruits like mango or pineapple makes a beautiful, sweet finish to the meal.
• Perfect for Lunch or Dinner: These noodles can be served as a satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner, making them versatile for any occasion.
• Garnish with Lime: Serving with lime wedges gives that extra zesty kick that brightens the dish.

FAQ

Conclusion

Thai Basil Beef Noodles is truly a remarkable dish that brings together bold flavors and comforting ingredients in one delightful bowl. It’s simple, quick, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. I encourage you to give this recipe a try tonight and experience the deliciousness for yourself. You won’t regret bringing this vibrant dish to your table!

Thai Basil Beef Noodles

The ultimate comfort food, Thai Basil Beef Noodles combines tender beef and fresh vegetables with flavorful noodles in just thirty minutes. This easy weeknight dinner is packed with authentic Thai flavors that you’ll crave time and time again. Perfect for a satisfying meal tonight!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Thai

Servings 4 servings

Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Skillet
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 6 ounces Pad Thai/wide rice noodles
• 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Thai chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon lemongrass paste (optional)
• to taste black pepper and chili flakes
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter, sliced
• 1 shallot, sliced
• 4-6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon chopped pickled ginger
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro or Thai basil
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/3 cup roasted peanuts, chopped

Instructions

 

• Start by soaking the rice noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re soft, drain them and set aside for later. This ensures they’ll cook perfectly without becoming mushy.
• Next, let’s whip up the sauce. In a bowl, combine the tamari or soy sauce, Thai chili sauce, fish sauce, rice vinegar, lemongrass paste, black pepper, and chili flakes. Mix until well combined, creating a rich and flavorful sauce that will coat the noodles beautifully.
• Now, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once hot, toss in the flank steak and bell peppers. Cook for about five minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is nicely browned and crispy.
• Next, add one tablespoon of butter, the shallot, 3 cloves of garlic, and the pickled ginger. Stir these ingredients together, allowing the garlic to sauté until it turns golden, which should take about one to two minutes.
• Once everything is combined, add the soaked noodles along with the sauce. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the noodles are coated in the sauce and heated through, which should take about one minute. Remove the skillet from the heat.
• Add in the cilantro or Thai basil, and green onions, tossing everything again to combine the flavors. The freshness of the herbs is what makes this dish shine!
• In a separate small skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter along with one clove of chopped garlic and the sesame seeds. Cook until the seeds are toasted, about five minutes. This will add a lovely crunch to your final dish.
• Now it’s time to serve! Plate the Thai Basil Beef Noodles, topping each serving with the toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and chopped peanuts. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime juice for that refreshing zing!

Notes

• Tip 1: Mix 1/3 cup honey, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1-2 tablespoons chili sauce or hot sauce, 2 teaspoons lime zest, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons tamari or soy sauce, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, and 1 clove grated garlic in a glass jar. Shake or stir well. Use as directed.

Keyword Beef Noodles Recipe, Easy Thai Dinner, Quick Thai Recipe, Thai Basil Beef

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.