Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein is a quick and flavorful dish inspired by Chinese cuisine, featuring tender strips of beef stir-fried with crisp vegetables and tossed with noodles in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or when you’re craving a homemade version of a takeout favorite.
What Is Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein?
Beef Chow Mein is a classic stir-fried noodle dish combining marinated beef, colorful vegetables, and soft noodles, all coated in a savory soy-based sauce. Mary Berry’s version emphasizes fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors, making it a delightful and healthier alternative to takeout.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Balanced Flavors: A perfect mix of savory, sweet, and umami.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level.
- One-Pan Dish: Minimal cleanup required.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein
- 300g beef sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced) – Tender and flavorful.
- 200g egg noodles (cooked) – The base of the dish.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – For stir-frying.
- 1 onion (sliced) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced) – For a pop of color and flavor.
- 1 carrot (julienned) – Adds crunch.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the savory flavor.
- 2 spring onions (sliced) – For garnish and a fresh bite.
For the Marinade:
- 1 tbsp soy sauce – For flavor and seasoning.
- 1 tsp sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma.
- 1 tsp cornstarch – Helps tenderize the beef.
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce – Forms the savory base.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce – Adds richness and depth.
- 1 tsp sugar – Balances the savory flavors.
- 1 tsp rice vinegar – Adds a subtle tang.
- 1 tbsp water – To loosen the sauce.
Equipment Needed
- Wok or large skillet – For stir-frying.
- Mixing bowls – To prepare the marinade and sauce.
- Tongs or chopsticks – For tossing the noodles and vegetables.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Add the sliced beef, toss to coat, and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and water. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Stir-fry the marinated beef for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the wok and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the wok and stir-fry the onion, red bell pepper, carrot, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the beef to the wok along with the cooked noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss everything together, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Beef Chow Mein to a serving dish, garnish with sliced spring onions, and serve immediately.
What Goes Well with Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein
- Steamed Rice: A classic accompaniment for extra heartiness.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls complement the stir-fry perfectly.
- Hot and Sour Soup: Adds a warming side to the meal.
- Pickled Vegetables: Balances the rich flavors of the dish.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: For a touch of heat and sweetness on the side.
Expert Tips for the Best Beef Chow Mein
- Slice Beef Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and remain tender.
- Pre-Cook the Noodles: Ensure the noodles are cooked and drained before adding to the wok.
- High Heat is Key: Stir-frying on high heat creates the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: Stir-fry in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Crisp, fresh vegetables add texture and color.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein
- Spicy Version: Add chili oil or fresh chili slices for heat.
- Vegetarian Chow Mein: Substitute beef with tofu or mushrooms.
- Seafood Twist: Use prawns or scallops instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles.
- Extra Crunch: Add bean sprouts or water chestnuts for texture.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a wok or skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as noodles and vegetables may lose texture.
How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein Healthier?
- Use Lean Beef: Choose a lean cut like sirloin or trim excess fat.
- Reduce Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and oyster sauce.
- Add More Vegetables: Increase the amount of veggies for added fiber and nutrients.
- Limit Oil: Use a non-stick wok to reduce the amount of oil needed.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Beef Chow Mein is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or satisfying takeout cravings at home. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and flavorful noodles, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Customize it with your favorite add-ins and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal!
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Mary Berry Beef Chow Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
Beef Chow Mein is a classic stir-fried noodle dish combining marinated beef, colorful vegetables, and soft noodles, all coated in a savory soy-based sauce. Mary Berry’s version emphasizes fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors, making it a delightful and healthier alternative to takeout.
Ingredients
- 300g beef sirloin or flank steak (thinly sliced) – Tender and flavorful.
- 200g egg noodles (cooked) – The base of the dish.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil – For stir-frying.
- 1 onion (sliced) – Adds sweetness and texture.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced) – For a pop of color and flavor.
- 1 carrot (julienned) – Adds crunch.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced) – Enhances the savory flavor.
- 2 spring onions (sliced) – For garnish and a fresh bite.
For the Marinade:
- 1 tbsp soy sauce – For flavor and seasoning.
- 1 tsp sesame oil – Adds a nutty aroma.
- 1 tsp cornstarch – Helps tenderize the beef.
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce – Forms the savory base.
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce – Adds richness and depth.
- 1 tsp sugar – Balances the savory flavors.
- 1 tsp rice vinegar – Adds a subtle tang.
- 1 tbsp water – To loosen the sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch. Add the sliced beef, toss to coat, and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and water. Set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Stir-fry the marinated beef for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from the wok and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the wok and stir-fry the onion, red bell pepper, carrot, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the beef to the wok along with the cooked noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture and toss everything together, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Beef Chow Mein to a serving dish, garnish with sliced spring onions, and serve immediately.
