How to Make Thai-Style Braised Beef Noodles

If you're craving a warm, comforting dish packed with flavor, look no further than Thai-style braised beef noodles. This dish combines tender beef with aromatic spices and fragrant herbs, served over a bed of noodles. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious meal that transports you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand.

Ingredients

To make Thai-style braised beef noodles, gather the following ingredients:

500g beef brisket, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, sliced
2-3 star anise
1 cinnamon stick
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
4 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon sugar
200g flat rice noodles
Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro) for garnish
Chili flakes (optional, for spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. Next, add the beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides.

Step 2: Flavoring the Broth

Once the beef is browned, add the star anise, cinnamon stick, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir everything well to combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Braising the Beef

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cooking the Noodles

While the beef is braising, prepare the flat rice noodles according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves soaking them in hot water until they are soft and pliable. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Assembling the Dish

Once the beef is tender, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with additional fish sauce or sugar if desired. To serve, place a portion of the cooked noodles in a bowl, ladle the braised beef and broth over the top, and garnish with fresh herbs and chili flakes for an extra kick.

Tips for the Perfect Thai-style Braised Beef Noodles

For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the beef in soy sauce and spices for a few hours before cooking.
Feel free to add vegetables like bok choy or bean sprouts for a nutritious boost.
Use fresh herbs for garnish, as they brighten the dish and enhance the overall taste.

Enjoy your homemade Thai-style braised beef noodles with friends and family. This flavorful dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Bon appétit!