Beef Noodle Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Noodle Soup is not only a comforting and satisfying dish, but it’s also incredibly versatile. The slow-cooked beef in a rich, aromatic broth creates deep layers of flavor, while the noodles soak up all the deliciousness in every bite. You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, and it’s an easy way to create a meal that feels both comforting and nutritious. Whether you prefer a light, fragrant broth or a rich, full-bodied one, Beef Noodle Soup will warm you from the inside out. It’s a perfect dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks, providing a comforting and customizable experience.

Ingredients

For the broth:

• 2 lbs (900g) beef shank or brisket, cut into large chunks (bone-in is preferable for more flavor)

• 12 cups water (or beef broth for a richer flavor)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for a deeper umami flavor)

• 1 onion, halved

• 4 cloves garlic, smashed

• 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 4-5 whole star anise

• 2-3 whole cloves

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• Salt to taste

For the soup:

• 8 oz (225g) fresh or dried noodles (egg noodles, rice noodles, or any other variety)

• 1 cup bok choy or other leafy greens (optional)

• 1-2 carrots, sliced (optional)

• 1-2 spring onions, chopped, for garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

• Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

• Chili sauce or fresh chili (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the broth:

Start by placing the beef chunks (with bones if using) into a large pot. Add the water or beef broth and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-10 minutes, skimming off any impurities or foam that rise to the top. This will help ensure a clearer broth.

2. Add the aromatics and spices:

Once the foam is skimmed, add the soy sauce, fish sauce, onion, garlic, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover the pot and let the broth simmer gently for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Check the broth occasionally, adding water if necessary to maintain the desired level of liquid.

3. Cook the noodles:

While the broth is simmering, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. If you’re using fresh noodles, they’ll cook much faster than dried ones. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. You can rinse them under cold water to prevent them from sticking if you prefer.

4. Add vegetables (optional):

If you’re using vegetables like bok choy or carrots, add them to the broth in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. The vegetables should cook through and soften but still retain some crunch.

5. Assemble the soup:

Once the beef is cooked and tender, remove the chunks of beef from the pot. Use a fork to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces, discarding any bones or excess fat. Return the shredded beef to the broth and stir.

6. Serve:

To serve, place a portion of cooked noodles in each bowl. Ladle the hot broth with beef and vegetables over the noodles. Garnish with fresh chopped spring onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime if desired. You can also serve chili sauce or fresh chili on the side for those who prefer a spicier soup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Total time: 3 hours (including simmering time)

Variations

• Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup: In Taiwanese-style Beef Noodle Soup, the broth is often richer and darker, and the beef is usually braised in soy sauce and five-spice powder for a deeper, more savory flavor.

• Pho-style Beef Noodle Soup: For a Vietnamese twist, you can make the broth lighter by using fewer spices (just cinnamon and star anise) and adding fresh herbs like basil, bean sprouts, and lime when serving.

• Spicy Beef Noodle Soup: Add chili peppers or chili paste (such as sriracha or gochujang) to the broth or as a topping for added heat.

• Vegetarian Noodle Soup: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and replace the beef with tofu or a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, bok choy, and zucchini for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Beef Noodle Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming too soggy.

• Reheating: Reheat the broth on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. You can also microwave individual servings. If the noodles have absorbed too much broth, you can cook fresh noodles and add them when serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of beef for Beef Noodle Soup?

Yes, other cuts of beef, such as chuck roast, flank steak, or short ribs, can also be used. For a rich and flavorful broth, choose cuts with some marbling or bone-in cuts that release collagen during cooking.

2. Can I make Beef Noodle Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make the broth in a slow cooker, simply add the beef, water, aromatics, and spices to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. Then, shred the beef and assemble the soup as usual.

3. Can I use instant noodles instead of fresh noodles?

Yes, instant noodles can be used as a quicker alternative to fresh or dried noodles. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before adding them to the soup.

4. Can I make the broth in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the broth ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the broth before serving and add freshly cooked noodles and vegetables.

5. How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?

To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy, it’s best to cook them separately and then add them to the soup just before serving. If you’re using dried noodles, cook them al dente and drain them before adding them to the broth.

6. Can I add more vegetables to Beef Noodle Soup?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like to the soup, such as bok choy, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to add them at the appropriate time to ensure they cook properly without losing their texture.

7. Can I make the soup spicier?

Yes, you can make the soup spicier by adding fresh chili peppers, chili paste, or hot sauce to the broth. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

8. Can I freeze Beef Noodle Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the broth and beef separately for up to 2-3 months. However, the noodles may not hold up well when frozen, so it’s best to cook fresh noodles when reheating.

9. What is the best way to serve Beef Noodle Soup?

Beef Noodle Soup is traditionally served with fresh garnishes like cilantro, lime wedges, and chili peppers. You can also serve it with additional sides, such as pickled vegetables or a simple salad.

10. What other meats can I use for Beef Noodle Soup?

While beef is traditional, you can use lamb or even pork for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as lamb may take longer to cook than pork.

Conclusion

Beef Noodle Soup is a flavorful, comforting, and versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a classic version with tender beef and aromatic broth or want to try a spicier twist, this soup is sure to satisfy. The combination of tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles makes it a complete and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect dish for a family dinner, gathering, or when you’re craving something warm and nourishing. Enjoy it as a one-pot meal, and feel free to get creative with the vegetables and garnishes to make it your own!