Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

Ma Yi Shang Shu, or stir fried vermicelli with beef, is a delightful and quick dish that will impress your family or guests. This recipe packs a punch of flavor with its tender mung bean vermicelli noodles and savory ground beef, all cooked in a rich sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s a meal that balances taste and simplicity in just 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of cooking time, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavorful: The combination of ginger, garlic, and doubanjiang creates an aromatic sauce that elevates the entire dish.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it over rice for a heartier meal.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition.
• Gluten-Free Option: Easily adaptable for those who need gluten-free meals by using tamari and dry apple juice.

Tools and Preparation

To make Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef smoothly, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick pan
• Big bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick pan: Prevents sticking and allows for easier cleanup while cooking.
• Big bowl: Ideal for soaking the vermicelli noodles without making a mess.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for combining sauce ingredients without taking up too much space.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 4 oz. (110 g) dried mung bean vermicelli noodles

For the Aromatics and Sauce

• 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon doubanjiang

For the Beef Mixture

• 4 oz. (120 g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice)
• 1 teaspoon sugar

How to Make Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

Step 1: Soak the Noodles

Place the vermicelli noodles in a big bowl and cover them with hot water. Soak according to package instructions; if none are provided, soak for about 15 minutes. Drain thoroughly, toss with 1/2 tablespoon of oil, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice), and sugar. Mix well and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil in a nonstick pan over medium heat until hot. Add minced ginger, garlic, and sliced green onions. Cook while stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the pan. Cook while breaking it into smaller pieces until fully cooked through—this should take around 2 minutes.

Step 5: Incorporate Doubanjiang

Stir in doubanjiang and cook for another minute until the beef is evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour in chicken broth along with soaked vermicelli noodles and prepared sauce. Stir gently to combine. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. Uncover and check noodle doneness; if they are still tough, cover again for another minute. Once soft, cook uncovered on medium-high heat until excess liquid evaporates—about one more minute before serving hot as a main dish.

How to Serve Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

Serving stir fried vermicelli with beef is an opportunity to get creative. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Incorporate a mix of colorful bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.

Garnish with Herbs

• Top the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley to add a burst of flavor and a vibrant touch.

Serve with Steamed Rice

• Pairing the vermicelli with a side of steamed white or brown rice can help balance the flavors and make the meal more filling.

Include a Side Salad

• A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory noodles.

Offer Chili Oil on the Side

• For those who enjoy heat, serve chili oil on the side so diners can customize their spice level.

Pair with Soup

• A simple miso or clear broth soup complements the dish nicely and adds warmth to the meal.

How to Perfect Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

Perfecting your stir fried vermicelli with beef involves attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for an exceptional dish every time.

• Choose Quality Noodles: Use high-quality mung bean vermicelli for better texture and flavor in your dish.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking the noodles; they should be soft yet retain some bite when served.

• Balance Flavors: Adjust seasoning carefully; add more soy sauce or broth gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have all ingredients prepped before starting to cook, as this will help you work quickly and efficiently.

• Use High Heat: Cook over medium-high heat towards the end to evaporate excess liquid quickly for optimal texture.

• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables according to your preference for extra flavor and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

Complementing your stir fried vermicelli with beef can enhance your dining experience. Here are some perfect side dishes that pair well:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli lightly steamed retains its nutrients and adds color.

2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic bring a crunchy texture and bold flavor.

3. Egg Drop Soup: A warm egg drop soup adds comfort while being light enough not to overshadow the main dish.

4. Spicy Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad made with vinegar and chili offers a nice contrast in flavors.

5. Sesame Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed in sesame oil provides a nutty note that complements the noodles.

6. Fried Tofu Bites: Crispy tofu bites offer protein-packed goodness alongside your flavorful vermicelli.

7. Pickled Vegetables: A small serving of pickled carrots or radishes adds tanginess that balances out rich flavors.

8. Fruit Platter: Finish off your meal with a refreshing fruit platter featuring seasonal fruits for a sweet endnote.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树), it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes you should watch out for:

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the vermicelli noodles can lead to them being undercooked and chewy. Always soak them according to package instructions for the best texture.

• Using too much sauce: Overloading on sauce can make the dish too salty or overpowering. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to taste as you cook.

• Not chopping ingredients finely: Large pieces of garlic or ginger can dominate the flavor. Mince these ingredients finely to distribute their flavors evenly throughout the dish.

• Ignoring heat levels: Cooking on too high a heat can burn your ingredients, while too low can leave them soggy. Use medium heat for even cooking.

• Neglecting leftover storage: Failing to store leftovers properly might lead to spoilage. Always cool down your dish before placing it in airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions with parchment paper for easier thawing.

Reheating Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a nonstick pan over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树).

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile while maintaining the dish’s essence.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness primarily depends on the amount of doubanjiang (chili bean paste) you add. Start with less and adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Certainly! Replace ground beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I customize Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树)?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust the sauce ingredients based on what you have at home.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! By using tamari instead of soy sauce and dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar, you can make this dish gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu, 蚂蚁上树) is not only quick and simple but also packed with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on available ingredients or personal preferences. Give this delightful recipe a try and explore various adaptations!