Hu Tieu Xao (VIETNAMESE STIR FRIED FLAT NOODLES WITH BEEF)

by CookTeen
hu tieu xao

As someone who absolutely loves exploring and sharing magical culinary delights, I can’t begin to tell you how thrilled I am to introduce you to one of my absolute favorites – the mouthwatering Hu Tieu Xao recipe! A tantalizing dish that is filled with a symphony of flavors, this Vietnamese noodle dish has its origins in the bustling Mekong Delta region. Bursting with the rich tapestry of flavors that characterizes Vietnamese cuisine, this crowd-pleaser never fails to fire up my tastebuds for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

What is Hu Tieu Xao?

Hu Tieu Xao is a delicious Vietnamese stir-fried noodle dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. It typically consists of stir-fried rice noodles, various proteins, vegetables, and a savory sauce.

Hu tieu xao ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

  1. 200g of Beef (sirloin or flank steak): Beef is the star of this dish, providing protein and a rich, savory flavor. Slice it thinly against the grain for tenderness.
  2. 150g of Hu Tieu Rice Noodles: These wide rice noodles are the base of the dish. They should be soaked in warm water until pliable and drained before cooking.
  3. 2 cloves of Garlic (minced): Garlic is a great ingredient to add to your stir-fry as it provides a delightful aroma and enhances the depth of flavor.
  4. 1 small Onion (thinly sliced): Onion provides a mild sweetness to balance the savory elements.
  5. 1 Carrot (julienned): Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
  6. 1 Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced): The bell pepper contributes a sweet and mildly tangy taste to the dish, in addition to providing a pop of vibrant color.
  7. 1/2 cup of Bean Sprouts: Bean sprouts add a refreshing crunch to the dish.
  8. 2-3 stalks of Green Onions (chopped): Green onions are a great addition to any dish as they add onion flavor and a pop of vibrant green color.

For the Sauce:

  1. Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami to the dish.
  2. 1 tablespoon of Oyster Sauce: Oyster sauce contributes a rich flavor with a hint of sweetness.
  3. 1 teaspoon of Sugar: Sugar balances the saltiness and adds a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
  4. 1/2 teaspoon of Black Pepper: Black pepper gives the dish a subtle spiciness.
  5. 1 tablespoon of Vegetable Oil: Used for stir-frying, vegetable oil prevents sticking and adds a bit of richness.

Instructions:

Prepare the Noodles:

  • Place the Hu Tieu rice noodles in a large bowl and cover them with warm water.
  • Let them soak for about 20-30 minutes or until they are pliable but not mushy.
  • Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Marinate the Beef:

  • In a bowl, mix thinly sliced Beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper.
  • Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, oyster sauce, and soy sauce.

Stir-Fry:

  • Heat a wok over high heat.
  • Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.
  • Add the minced Garlic and sliced Onion, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Beef:

  • Now add the marinated Beef to the wok and stir-fry it for precisely 3 minutes until it is no longer pink. After that, remove the Beef from the wok and immediately set it aside.

Vegetables and Noodles:

  • Add a bit more oil to the wok if needed.
  • Add the julienned carrot and sliced red bell pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
  • Add the drained rice noodles to the pan and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Finish:

  • Return the cooked Beef to the wok.
  • Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients in the wok and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well combined and heated through.

Tips:

  1. Slice the Beef thinly: This ensures that the Beef cooks quickly and stays tender.
  2. High heat: Use high heat when stir-frying to achieve that coveted smoky flavor and to keep the vegetables crisp.
  3. Prepare all ingredients before starting: Stir-frying is a fast process, so having everything ready to go is essential.
  4. Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the sauce, sugar, or pepper to suit your preferences.
  5. Customize your veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your taste. Snow peas, mushrooms, or baby corn are great options.

What to serve with

With its beautiful blend of flavors, Hu Tieu Xao is a satisfying dish all by itself. However, like many Vietnamese dishes, it can truly shine when complemented with the right partners. So, allow me to suggest a few pairings to further enhance your dish.

Side Dishes

  • Nuoc Mam Cham (Vietnamese Dipping Sauce): This tangy, sweet, and garlicky dipping sauce is a must-have with most Vietnamese dishes, and this dish is no exception. The sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the stir-fried noodles.
  • Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon): Vietnamese spring rolls filled with fresh herbs, rice noodles, and either shrimp or pork would be a fantastic side dish. The fresh, delicate flavors of the spring rolls contrast well with your dish.

Drinks

  • Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da): This strong dark coffee balanced with sweet condensed milk is the perfect beverage to offset the savory and hearty flavors of this dish
  • Lemon Iced Tea (Tra Chanh): Tart, sweet, and incredibly refreshing, a glass of Vietnamese iced lemon tea can cleanse your palate, making every bite of your rice noodles just as exciting as the first.

Desserts

  • Che Ba Mau (Three-Color Dessert): After a delicious meal, dessert is a must! This classic sweet Vietnamese dessert includes yellow mung bean paste, red kidney beans, and green pandan jelly, topped with coconut milk. It’s a light and sweet conclusion to balance out your culinary journey.

Storing and Reheating

Storing and reheating stir-fried noodles with Beef properly is essential to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are detailed instructions on how to store and reheat this dish:

Storing Hu Tieu Xao:

  1. Cool the Dish: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to sogginess.
  2. Divide into Portions: If you have leftovers, consider dividing it into individual portions before storing. This makes it easier to reheat only what you need.
  3. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled dish into airtight containers. Ensure the containers are sealed properly to prevent air and moisture from getting in.
  4. Refrigerate: Place the airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to consume it within 1-2 days for the best taste and texture.

Reheating:

There are several methods to reheat Hu Tieu Xao, and the choice depends on your preference and available equipment:

1. Stovetop:

  • Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  • Add a small amount of oil or water to prevent sticking.
  • Once the pan is hot, add the leftover Hu Tieu Xao.
  • Stir-fry the dish, breaking up any clumps of noodles, for 3-5 minutes or until it’s heated through.
  • If the dish appears dry, you can add a splash of water or broth to moisten it.

2. Microwave:

  • Place the desired portion of Hu Tieu Xao in a microwave-safe dish.
  • Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  • Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
  • Continue heating until the dish reaches the desired temperature.

3. Steaming (Recommended for Noodles):

  • If you have access to a steamer, this method works exceptionally well for rice noodles.
  • Place a bamboo steamer or a regular steamer basket over boiling water.
  • Put the dish in a heatproof dish or on a heatproof plate, cover it, and steam for 3-5 minutes or until hot.

4. Oven (Recommended for Larger Portions):

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Transfer the Hu Tieu Xao to an oven-safe dish.
  • Cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and place it in the preheated oven.
  • Reheat for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s thoroughly heated.

Health Benefits

Hu Tieu Xao can offer several health benefits due to its combination of ingredients, which include protein, vegetables, and rice noodles.

  1. Protein from Beef: Beef is a significant source of high-quality protein. It provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
  2. Low in Fat: When prepared with lean cuts of Beef and minimal oil, Hu Tieu Xao can be a relatively low-fat dish, making it suitable for those looking to manage their fat intake.
  3. Fiber from Vegetables: The dish contains a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts, which are rich in dietary fiber. Fiber promotes healthy digestion and can help manage cholesterol levels.
  4. Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables in Hu Tieu Xao contribute essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, carrots provide vitamin A, which is crucial for eye health, while bell peppers offer vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system.
  5. Low in Cholesterol: As long as you use lean Beef and minimal added fats, Hu Tieu Xao can be a low-cholesterol dish, making it suitable for individuals with heart health concerns.
  6. Carbohydrates from Rice Noodles: Rice noodles are the primary source of carbohydrates in this dish. Carbohydrates provide energy for daily activities and can be an excellent option for a quick energy boost.
  7. Control Over Ingredients: When preparing Hu Tieu Xao at home, you have control over the ingredients and can adjust them to meet specific dietary needs, such as reducing sodium or using alternative proteins like tofu or shrimp.
  8. Flavorful, Balanced Meal: Hu Tieu Xao’s combination of savory and umami flavors from soy sauce and oyster sauce, along with the crunch of vegetables and the tender Beef, makes it a satisfying and balanced meal.
  9. Flexibility in Preparation: The dish is versatile and can be customized to include different vegetables, protein sources, and seasonings to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences.
  10. Portion Control: Controlling portion sizes when serving can help manage calorie intake, making Hu Tieu Xao a flexible option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

FAQ

What is the difference between Hu Tieu noodle soup and phở?

Hu Tieu noodle soup is a Vietnamese noodle soup that’s made with thin rice noodles, pork and/or shrimp, and a clear broth. It’s served with a side of fresh herbs and vegetables, and you can choose to add extra meat or seafood to it if you’d like.
Phở is also a Vietnamese noodle soup, but it has thicker rice noodles than hu tieu. Pho also comes with either Beef or chicken broth and is served with garnishes like cilantro and bean sprouts.
The main difference between hu tieu and pho is that pho has thicker noodles than hu tieu.

Final Thoughts

This hu tieu xao recipe is an excellent choice for folks that don’t have a lot of time to prepare a dish, but still want to enjoy something delicious. It’s also great if you want to make a few meals out of it; this recipe makes seven servings and works well as a party appetizer or as part of a main course.

More On Asian Dishes:

hu tieu xao

Hu Tieu Xao

Serves: 4 Prep Time: Cooking Time:
Nutrition facts: 270 calories 57 grams fat
Rating: 5.0/5
( 1 voted )

Ingredients

  • 200 grams of Beef (sirloin or flank steak)
  • 150 grams of Hu Tieu Rice Noodles
  • 2 cloves of Garlic (minced)
  • 1 small Onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 Carrot (julienned)
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 cup of Bean Sprouts
  • 2-3 stalks of Green Onions (chopped)
  • 2 tablespoons of Soy Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of Oyster Sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of Sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of Black Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of Vegetable Oil (for stir-frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Noodles:

  • Place the Hu Tieu rice noodles in a large bowl and cover them with warm water.
  • Let them soak for about 20-30 minutes or until they are pliable but not mushy.
  • Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Marinate the Beef:

  • In a bowl, mix thinly sliced Beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper.
  • Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

For the sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar, oyster sauce, and soy sauce.

Stir-fry:

  • Heat a wok over high heat.
  • Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.
  • Add the minced Garlic and sliced Onion, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Beef:

  • Now add the marinated Beef to the wok and stir-fry it for precisely 3 minutes until it is no longer pink. After that, remove the Beef from the wok and immediately set it aside.

Vegetable and Noodles:

  • Add a bit more oil to the wok if needed.
  • Add the julienned carrot and sliced red bell pepper, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
  • Add the drained rice noodles to the pan and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Finish:

  • Return the cooked Beef to the wok.
  • Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients in the wok and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well combined and heated through.

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