Somen Noodles with Beef and Broccoli

Oh, the perennial noodle. We always have them in our pantry so trying out different dishes with them is a must . Somen is Japanese noodles made of wheat flour and is usually served cold. I have used Somen in cold dishes, but I think I like hot meals better.


What you need:

• 2 bundles of Somen
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 lb beef, cut into strips
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2  cups steamed broccoli
• toasted garlic, for garnish

What to do:

 Cook noodles according to package instructions.

Heat sesame oil in a wok over medium heat. Saute the garlic and ginger for about a minute. Add the beef and cook till brown. Put in the mushrooms and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

Add the soy sauce, wine, mirin, oyster sauce and beef broth. Turn down the heat to low and let simmer for around 15 minutes or till the beef is tender. If it dries out, add more beef broth, about 1/4 cup at a time.

Add the somen and steamed broccoli to the wok and cook till heated through, about a minute. Ladle on bowls and garnish with toasted garlic before serving.


Tips, Tricks and Tweaks:

1. You can also use udon noodles for this dish.
2. Try other veggies like baby corn or water chestnuts.
3. Skip the garnish if you don't like the taste of toasted garlic.
4. Chicken or shrimp can also be used instead of beef.