Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup is a beloved dish known for its rich, spicy broth and tender beef pieces. This hearty soup combines a variety of aromatic spices and flavors, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, or more as needed
• 8 cups water, or more as needed
• 1 (14 ounce) can beef broth
• 1 bunch green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 cup soy sauce
• ½ cup rice wine
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 10 cloves garlic, peeled, or more to taste
• 4 small chile peppers, halved and seeded, or more to taste
• 2 tablespoons chile paste, or to taste
• 1 (1½ inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut into 5 pieces
• 3 star anise pods, or more to taste
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 4 small heads baby bok choy
• 1 (10 ounce) package udon noodles
• 1 tablespoon chopped pickled mustard greens, or to taste (optional)

Directions

1. Place beef in a stockpot and cover with water; bring to a boil. Remove from heat and drain.
2. Pour vegetable oil into a slow cooker; add beef, 8 cups water, beef broth, green onions, soy sauce, rice wine, brown sugar, garlic, chile peppers, chile paste, ginger, star anise, and five-spice powder. Cover and cook on Low for 8 to 9 hours.
3. Bring a pot of water to a boil; add baby bok choy and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Bring the same pot of water back to a boil; add udon noodles and cook until tender yet firm to the bite, about 4 minutes. Drain.
5. Divide noodles among serving bowls; top with beef and broth mixture. Add baby bok choy and pickled mustard greens, if using.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 407 kcal
• Protein: Approximately 23% of total calories
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 56% of total calories
• Fat: Approximately 21% of total calories

The History of Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup has its roots in Chinese cuisine but has evolved into a unique dish that represents Taiwan’s rich culinary heritage. The origins of beef noodle soup can be traced back to Sichuan and northern China, where beef was commonly used in braised dishes.

During the 1949 Chinese Civil War, many Chinese immigrants fled to Taiwan, bringing their regional cooking styles and flavors with them. Over time, Taiwanese chefs began adding their own twist to beef noodle soup, incorporating local spices and ingredients. The addition of spicy chili paste and fermented flavors created the bold and fragrant broth that is now characteristic of Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup.

Today, this dish is an essential part of Taiwanese street food culture. It is commonly served in night markets, small family-owned restaurants, and high-end eateries. Every year, Taiwan even hosts a Beef Noodle Soup Festival, where chefs compete to make the best version of this iconic dish.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Rich, Flavorful Broth: The slow-cooked broth is infused with aromatic spices, soy sauce, and chili paste, creating an irresistible depth of flavor.
• Tender and Juicy Beef: Braised beef chunks absorb the flavors of the broth, making each bite melt in your mouth.
• Chewy and Satisfying Noodles: The noodles provide the perfect texture contrast to the rich broth and tender beef.
• Customizable Spice Level: You can adjust the heat by adding more or less chili paste, making it perfect for any spice tolerance.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is both delicious and nourishing.

Health Benefits of Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

This dish is not only delicious but also comes with a range of health benefits:

• High in Protein: Beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in Iron and B Vitamins: The beef and broth provide essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and folate, which support red blood cell production and overall energy levels.
• Boosts Metabolism: The capsaicin in chili paste has been linked to increased metabolism and fat burning.
• Aids Digestion: The combination of garlic, ginger, and spices can promote healthy digestion and gut health.
• Supports Immune Function: The soup contains antioxidant-rich ingredients that help strengthen the immune system.

When to Serve Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed on different occasions:

• A Comforting Weeknight Dinner: The slow-cooked beef and noodles make for a warm and satisfying meal after a long day.
• Special Gatherings: Impress your family and friends by serving this flavorful dish at get-togethers.
• Cold Weather Treat: Nothing beats a steaming bowl of Spicy Beef Noodle Soup on a chilly evening.
• A Meal Prep Favorite: This dish can be made in advance and stored for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Tips for Making the Perfect Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef: For the most tender and flavorful results, use beef shank, chuck, or brisket. These cuts become incredibly soft when braised for an extended period.
2. Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Browning the beef before simmering helps develop a deeper and richer flavor in the broth.
3. Use Fresh Aromatic Ingredients: Garlic, ginger, green onions, and star anise add depth to the broth, so using fresh ingredients is essential.
4. Simmer for the Best Flavor: A slow-cooked broth will yield the most delicious and well-balanced taste. The longer it simmers, the better it gets.
5. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of chili paste or omit the chili peppers. If you love extra heat, add more!
6. Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh hand-pulled or thick wheat noodles work best for this dish, as they have the ideal texture to absorb the broth.

Popular Variations of Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

While the traditional recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try:

• Clear Broth Beef Noodle Soup: This version has a lighter, non-spicy broth with a focus on the natural flavors of the beef.
• Tomato-Based Beef Noodle Soup: Some variations include tomatoes in the broth, giving it a slightly tangy and sweet taste.
• Dry Beef Noodle: Instead of serving it as a soup, the beef and sauce are served over dry noodles for a different texture experience.
• Vegan or Vegetarian Version: Substitute beef with mushrooms or tofu, and use a vegetable-based broth for a plant-based alternative.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

To make the meal even more satisfying, consider pairing the soup with:

• Taiwanese Pickled Vegetables: These add a tangy crunch that complements the rich broth.
• Scallion Pancakes: A crispy and savory side that balances the spice of the soup.
• Steamed Bok Choy or Spinach: A simple, nutritious addition to your meal.
• Taiwanese Bubble Tea: A sweet and refreshing drink that pairs well with the spicy flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The broth and beef can be frozen for up to 2 months. It’s best to cook fresh noodles when reheating.
• Reheating: Heat the soup on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the original flavors. Avoid boiling to prevent overcooking the beef.

Conclusion

Taiwanese Spicy Beef Noodle Soup is an incredible dish that brings together bold flavors, comforting textures, and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying it for the first time, this soup is a rewarding dish to prepare. Its deep, aromatic broth, tender beef, and perfectly chewy noodles make it a favorite among food lovers worldwide.