Published on July 1, 2025 (Last modified on July 1, 2025) by Joe Williams in Lunch And Dinner

Beef Chow Fun Noodles Recipe – Culinary Chase

Ah, beef chow fun noodles – a dish that conjures up images of bustling street markets where the sizzle of woks competes with the laughter of patrons. While I think about diving into this delightful meal, I can’t help but think of accompaniments. Consider pairing this dish with a vibrant cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar, or some crispy spring rolls for an appetizer that balances flavors perfectly.

Now, let’s not forget the importance of a drink. An ice-cold jasmine tea beautifully rounds out this meal. Its lightness complements the richness of the beef. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, a nice IPA could work as well, offering a hoppy counterbalance to the savory noodles.

Let me take you on a journey of taste and texture. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Imagine the wide, flat rice noodles soaking up the flavors of savory beef and stir-fried veggies. The moment you take a bite, your taste buds explode as the high heat of the wok gives each ingredient its own character.

In our fast-paced society, there’s a craving for comfort food that also delivers that much-needed nutrition. Beef chow fun meets this need head-on. The combination of chewy noodles, tender beef, and fresh veggies makes for a wholesome feel-good dish.

What Are Beef Chow Fun Noodles?

Beef chow fun, also known as “beef chow foon,” is a classic Cantonese dish characterized by its wide rice noodles that are stir-fried with beef, bean sprouts, and scallions. The dish is often seasoned with soy sauce and other savory ingredients that pack a punch. Originating from southern China, particularly Guangdong province, it has made its way across the globe, gracing tables from food stalls in Hong Kong to elegant restaurants in North America.

What makes this dish so appealing? It’s all in the preparation. The noodles are typically stir-fried in a hot wok, creating a wonderful smokiness – a technique called “wok hei,” or “breath of the wok.” The beef becomes tender, and the vegetables remain crisp, creating a balanced medley that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Chow Fun Noodles

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of beef chow fun noodles. Here’s why it’s worth your time and taste buds.

1. Versatility: This dish can adapt. You can make it spicy or keep it mild. Toss in any of your favorite veggies or swap out proteins while still maintaining that authentic taste.

2. Flavor Profile: The umami flavor from soy sauce and oyster sauce creates a depth that is hard to resist. When coupled with the freshness of ginger and scallions, the flavors balance beautifully.

3. Texture Combo: Between the soft noodles, the crispness of the bean sprouts, and the tender beef, this dish has it all. Each mouthful provides a different sensation, keeping you engaged with every bite.

4. Quick Preparation: Ideal for busy weekdays! In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up a dish that rivals any takeout.

5. Family-Friendly: Pickiest eaters will enjoy the chewy noodles mixed with flavorful beef, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Beef Chow Fun Noodles

Ready to dive in? Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for creating that spectacular beef chow fun. Here’s what you need:

Beef Marinade

1 tablespoon light soy sauce

½ teaspoon white pepper powder
1 tablespoon cornstarch (for coating)
¼ teaspoon baking soda (for tenderizing)

12 oz flank steak, sliced into ¼-inch thin strips
1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil (avocado, canola, or vegetable oil)
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

Stir-Fry Sauce

½ tablespoon granulated sugar
2 tablespoons light soy sauce, plus an extra tablespoon reserved for the noodles

½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce

½ tablespoon dark soy sauce, plus 2 teaspoons set aside for noodles
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Noodles & Vegetables

4 scallions, cut into 2-inch segments
2 garlic cloves, minced finely

16 oz rice noodles (fresh or dried; if dried, use 12 oz and soak until pliable)
½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 cup fresh bean sprouts

4 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado, canola, or vegetable), divided for cooking steps

How to make Beef Chow Fun Noodles Recipe

Directions

Now that we have our ingredients sorted out, let’s cook up a storm! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the dish that is sure to impress your friends and family.

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by preparing the flank steak. Combine 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of white pepper powder, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda to create a marinade.

Add the sliced beef to the mixture and toss until well-coated. This helps tenderize the meat. Let it sit for around 15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

If you are using dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes, or until pliable. Drain and set aside. If you have fresh noodles, you can skip this step and just separate them.

Step 3: Make the Stir-Fry Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix your stir-fry sauce ingredients. Combine ½ tablespoon of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar. To finish it off, stir in 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil. Taste it; if you like more sweetness or saltiness, adjust to your preference.

Step 4: Heat the Wok

Heat your wok or a large skillet over high heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of cooking oil. Make sure the oil is shimmering before moving on to the next steps to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Beef

Add your marinated beef to the hot wok. Stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Remove the beef from the wok and set it aside.

Step 6: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add more oil if necessary. Toss in the minced garlic, sliced onion, and scallions. Stir-fry for about a minute until fragrant. Next, add in the bean sprouts and stir for another minute.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Add the beef back into the wok along with the soaked noodles. Pour in the stir-fry sauce and the additional tablespoon of light soy sauce set aside earlier. Toss everything together gently to coat the noodles and mix the flavors thoroughly. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the noodles to heat through.

Step 8: Serve

Once everything is well mixed and heated, remove from heat. Your beef chow fun noodles are ready. Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, savory flavors!

Notes

Here are a few tips to elevate your beef chow fun noodles:

Choose the Right Beef: Flank steak is ideal for stir-frying due to its tenderness when sliced thinly. You can also use sirloin or ribeye, but make sure to slice against the grain.
Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: If making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding prevents proper searing and can result in a soggy dish.
High Heat is Key: Ensure your wok is hot enough to develop that flavor infusion. A hot wok means better texture and taste!

Add Seasonal Vegetables: Feel free to include bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas! Using seasonal veggies provides freshness and variation to the dish.
Prepare Ahead: Marinate the beef and prepare the sauce in advance. This way, dinner is a breeze to throw together on a busy evening.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? They’re just as good the next day! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to store them longer, opt for freezing. Beef chow fun noodles can be frozen for about 1 to 2 months. However, remember that noodles can lose their texture when thawed.

To reheat, just place in a pan on medium heat with a splash of water or broth to avoid dryness.

Nutrition Information

A typical serving of beef chow fun noodles is hearty and balanced. While individual nutrition may vary based on ingredient choices, a standard serving contains:

Serving Suggestions

When serving beef chow fun, here are some creative suggestions to truly turn it into a feast:

1. Top with Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving for a burst of flavor and color.

2. Add Chili Oil: For those who enjoy heat, a drizzle of chili oil adds a nice spice that elevates the dish.

3. Serve with Lime: A wedge of lime allows guests to brighten up the dish, adding acidity that contrasts nicely with the savory flavors.

4. Pair with Chilled Sake: A glass of chilled sake can complement the profile of the dish, making your dining experience feel authentically Asian.

5. Offer a Side of Broccoli: Create a balanced meal by serving broccoli spears on the side, adding a nutritious touch.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Beef Chow Fun Noodles?

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are several substitutes that can either replace or complement the beef in this dish:

1. Chicken Breast: Use sliced chicken for a lighter protein option. Just marinate and cook the same way.

2. Tofu: For a vegetarian version, replace beef with firm tofu. Press and marinate for same infused flavors, then stir-fry until golden.

3. Shrimp: Substitute beef with shrimp for a seafood twist. Cook them quickly till they turn pink, ensuring they don’t become tough.

4. Pork: Thinly sliced pork tenderloin or shoulder can create a different yet delightful flavor profile, ideal for pork lovers.

5. Vegetables Only: Going completely plant-based? Use a mix of your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas, to create a hearty yet meat-free meal.

Beef Chow Fun Noodles Recipe

Ah, beef chow fun noodles – a dish that conjures up images of bustling street markets where the sizzle of woks competes with the laughter of patrons.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese (Cantonese)

Servings

Calories 477 kcal

Equipment

Non stick pan

Baking sheet

Ingredients

Beef Marinade

1 tablespoon light soy sauce
½ teaspoon white pepper powder

1 tablespoon cornstarch for coating
¼ teaspoon baking soda for tenderizing
12 oz flank steak sliced into ¼-inch thin strips

1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil avocado, canola, or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

Stir-Fry Sauce

½ tablespoon granulated sugar

2 tablespoons light soy sauce plus an extra tablespoon reserved for the noodles
½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine Chinese cooking wine

1 tablespoon oyster sauce
½ tablespoon dark soy sauce plus 2 teaspoons set aside for noodles
1 teaspoon rice vinegar

1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil

Noodles & Vegetables

4 scallions cut into 2-inch segments
2 garlic cloves minced finely

16 oz rice noodles fresh or dried; if dried, use 12 oz and soak until pliable
½ yellow onion thinly sliced
1 cup fresh bean sprouts

4 tablespoons neutral oil avocado, canola, or vegetable, divided for cooking steps