Dish

Beef Noodle Soup

Beef noodle soup is a staple in Taiwanese cuisine and is often considered the national dish. The dish is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China and was brought to Taiwan by Chinese immigrants. The broth is typically made with beef bones, soy sauce, and a variety of spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. The beef is usually sliced thinly and cooked in the broth along with vegetables such as bok choy and scallions. The noodles used in the dish can vary, but are typically wheat-based and have a chewy texture. Beef noodle soup is a filling and satisfying meal that is perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting meal.

Asian cuisine› East Asian cuisine› Taiwanese cuisine

Soup› Noodle Soup

Origins and history

Beef noodle soup is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China and was brought to Taiwan by Chinese immigrants. It has since become a staple in Taiwanese cuisine and is often considered the national dish. The dish has also become popular in other Asian countries such as Vietnam and Malaysia.

Dietary considerations

Beef noodle soup can be made to accommodate a variety of dietary needs. For those who are gluten-free, rice noodles can be used instead of wheat-based noodles. Vegetarians can substitute the beef with tofu or mushrooms. Those who are watching their sodium intake can use low-sodium soy sauce and limit the amount of salt used in the broth.

Variations

There are many variations of beef noodle soup depending on the region and the cook. Some variations include using different types of noodles, adding different vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms, or using different cuts of beef. Some versions also include spicy chili oil or fermented bean paste for added flavor.

Presentation and garnishing

Beef noodle soup can be presented in a large bowl with the noodles and beef on one side and the broth and vegetables on the other. It can be garnished with scallions, cilantro, or chili oil for added flavor and color.

Tips & Tricks

To make the broth more flavorful, roast the beef bones before adding them to the pot. This will give the broth a richer and more complex flavor. Additionally, adding a splash of vinegar to the broth can help to bring out the flavors of the spices.

Side-dishes

Beef noodle soup can be served with a variety of side dishes such as pickled vegetables, steamed dumplings, or fried rice. It is also commonly served with a side of chili oil or soy sauce for added flavor.