Imagine a dish that perfectly balances the rich umami of teriyaki sauce, the savory depth of seasoned beef, and the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables, all tied together with silky Chinese noodles. This Shrimp & Teriyaki Steak Noodles recipe is just that—an enticing combination that brings together the best of Asian cuisine in a comforting and satisfying meal.
A Personal Touch: I first encountered this dish at a bustling street market while traveling through Asia. The scent of sizzling beef and the sweet, tangy aroma of teriyaki sauce wafted through the air, drawing me in. After savoring the dish, I knew I had to recreate it back home. With a few tweaks and a lot of love, I’ve crafted this recipe to bring that street food magic to my own kitchen. Now, every time I make it, I’m transported back to that vibrant market, surrounded by the sights and sounds of culinary delight.
Ingredients
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
1/2 cup (125 ml) light soy sauce
80 ml (1/3 cup) hoisin sauce
45 ml (3 tablespoons) mirin
30 ml (2 tablespoons) sesame oil (unroasted)
30 ml (2 tablespoons) honey
15 ml (1 teaspoon) chopped ginger
10 ml (2 teaspoons) minced garlic
10 ml (2 teaspoons) cornstarch
For the Stir-Fry:
350 g (about 12 oz) Chinese noodles
450 g (1 lb) inside round steak or sirloin
1 onion
1 yellow pepper
1 red pepper
250 g (about 9 oz) sweet peas
30 ml (2 tablespoons) sesame oil (unroasted)
2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Chinese Noodles
Boil the Noodles: Start by bringing a large saucepan of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Once boiling, add the Chinese noodles and cook according to the package instructions until tender. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes, but be sure to check the package for specific timings.
Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the other components of the dish.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup light soy sauce, 80 ml hoisin sauce, 45 ml mirin, 30 ml sesame oil, 30 ml honey, 15 ml chopped ginger, 10 ml minced garlic, and 10 ml cornstarch.
Whisk Well: Ensure that the cornstarch is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This will create a thick, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to the noodles and beef.
Set Aside: Reserve the teriyaki sauce for later use.
3. Prepare the Vegetables and Beef
Chop the Vegetables: Peel and chop 1 onion. Slice 1 yellow pepper and 1 red pepper into thin strips. Set aside.
Slice the Beef: Cut 450 g of inside round steak or sirloin into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help the beef cook quickly and absorb the teriyaki sauce flavors more effectively.
Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet or wok, heat 30 ml of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced peppers, and 250 g sweet peas. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender. Transfer the cooked vegetables to a plate and set aside.
Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, add a bit more sesame oil if needed and increase the heat to high. Add the sliced beef in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the beef is browned and cooked to your liking.
4. Combine Everything
Add the Sauce: Pour the reserved teriyaki sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the sauce to thicken and become glossy.
Mix in the Noodles and Vegetables: Add the cooked Chinese noodles and the reserved vegetables to the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the noodles and vegetables are well coated with the teriyaki sauce. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until everything is heated through.
Garnish (Optional): If desired, sprinkle with thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy contrast.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Plate the Dish: Transfer the Shrimp & Teriyaki Steak Noodles to serving plates or a large serving dish.
Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with the tender beef, crisp vegetables, and chewy noodles.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh. Ensure the tofu or tempeh is well-pressed and cubed, then cook it until golden brown before adding the sauce and vegetables.
Seafood Variation: To incorporate shrimp as suggested in the dish name, simply swap out the beef for peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
Low-Carb Version: For a low-carb option, use zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles instead of traditional Chinese noodles. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce. This will give the dish an extra kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that are just as delicious.
Conclusion
Shrimp & Teriyaki Steak Noodles is a versatile and flavorful dish that brings a touch of Asian flair to your dining table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant colors, rich flavors, and satisfying textures. The combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a glossy teriyaki sauce makes every bite a delightful experience.
This dish is not only delicious but also adaptable to various dietary preferences and ingredient availability. Its ease of preparation and impressive results make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the taste of a favorite Asian-inspired dish right in your own home, and savor the pleasure of creating a meal that’s both comforting and extraordinary.
