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The Best Hoisin Beef Noodles

Tender strips of beef, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles are all tossed together in a glossy, sweet-savory sauce that’s packed with umami flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • For the Stir-Fry
  • 1 lb 450 g flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain (or use chicken, shrimp, or tofu)
  • 8 oz 225 g rice noodles (sub udon, soba, or egg noodles if preferred)
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 large carrot julienned or ribboned
  • 4 green onions chopped (whites and greens separated)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil divided
  • For the Hoisin Sauce Mixture
  • ¼ cup 60 ml hoisin sauce (check for gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce optional but adds richness
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • For Garnish Optional
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Chili crisp or chili flakes for heat

Equipment

  • Large wok or deep skillet
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Noodles. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, and toss with 1 teaspoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Make the Hoisin Sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust with a pinch of salt or a drizzle of honey if desired. Set aside.
  3. Sear the Beef. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced beef in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan—work in batches if necessary.
  4. Sear the beef for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  5. Stir-Fry the Vegetables. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Toss in the red bell pepper, carrot, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
  6. Combine Everything. Lower the heat to medium. Add the cooked noodles, seared beef, and hoisin sauce mixture into the skillet. Using tongs, toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in sauce and the mixture is glossy and fragrant—about 1–2 minutes.
  7. Add Final Touches. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the green onion tops. Drizzle lightly with sesame oil for extra aroma. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds, cilantro, lime wedges, or chili crisp for extra spice.

Notes

Serving Suggestions
🍳 Bowl Style: Top your noodles with a fried egg and a sprinkle of chili oil.
🥬 Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the beef noodles into butter lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb twist.
🍱 Meal Prep Box: Pair with steamed edamame or sautéed broccoli for balanced lunch portions.
Pro Tips
🥩 Freeze for Easy Slicing: Chill the beef for 30 minutes before cutting to get paper-thin slices.
🍜 Avoid Mushy Noodles: Slightly undercook noodles since they’ll continue cooking in the sauce.
⏲️ Marinate for Depth: Let the beef sit in the sauce for 10 minutes before cooking for more flavor.
🥕 Switch It Up: Try snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms instead of bell peppers for variation.