Crispy Noodle Bliss with Sautéed Beef and Vegetables

1. Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, mix the thinly sliced beef with 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 2 teaspoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of neutral oil, and ⅛ teaspoon of baking soda. Let this marinate for 30 minutes to an hour.

2. Prepare the Noodles

If using fresh noodles, boil them for 1 minute; if using dried noodles, boil them for 1-2 minutes. Drain the noodles, rinse them under cold water, and let them air-dry for 10-15 minutes.

3. Mix the Sauce

Combine 1 cup of heated low-sodium beef or chicken stock with 1½ tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil, and ¼ teaspoon of white pepper powder in a medium bowl. Set this aside.

4. Fry the Noodles

Heat a wok over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Once hot, add the noodles in a single layer and let them fry undisturbed for about 3 minutes, until the bottom is golden and crispy. Flip the noodles carefully and fry the other side for another 3-5 minutes. Remove the noodles from the wok and set them aside.

5. Sear the Beef

In the same wok, add another tablespoon of neutral oil and heat until shimmering. Add the marinated beef slices and sear them for about 1 minute per side until they are browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.

6. Cook the Vegetables

Add 1 tablespoon of neutral oil to the wok along with ½ teaspoon of finely julienned fresh ginger. When the ginger is fragrant, add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and ¼ cup of sliced carrot. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes before adding 2 finely chopped garlic cloves. Pour in 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine to deglaze the wok, scraping up any browned bits.

7. Combine and Thicken

Add 5 ounces of Chinese broccoli to the wok and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. Pour in the sauce mixture and return the beef to the wok. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir this into the wok to thicken the sauce.

8. Plate and Serve

Plate the crispy noodles and pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy.