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

Ma Yi Shang Shu, or Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef, is the ultimate solution for a quick and delicious weekday dinner. This dish combines tender mung bean vermicelli noodles with flavorful ground beef and a spicy sauce, making it perfect for various occasions. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this Sichuan classic that’s not only satisfying but also customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of ginger, garlic, and doubanjiang creates an aromatic dish bursting with flavor.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the spice level or substitute ingredients based on what you have at home.
• Healthy Option: With lean ground beef and vermicelli noodles, this dish remains wholesome without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a larger batch to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick pan: Prevents sticking, allowing you to cook the beef and vegetables evenly without burning.
• Big bowl: Ideal for soaking the vermicelli noodles without any mess.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing sauce ingredients before adding them to the main dish.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurement of ingredients for consistent results.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

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

For the Stir Fry

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

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon doubanjiang
• 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 Vermicelli Noodles

Place the vermicelli noodles in a big bowl and add hot water to cover them. Soak according to package instructions or for about 15 minutes if no instructions are provided. Once done, drain thoroughly, toss with 1/2 tablespoon oil, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients—light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar (or dry apple juice), and sugar—then set aside.

Step 3: Cook Aromatics

Heat 1/2 tablespoon 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: Brown Ground Beef

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

Step 5: Add Doubanjiang

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

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth along with soaked vermicelli noodles and prepared sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes. Uncover to stir again; check noodle doneness. If needed, cover again for another minute until soft.

Once noodles are tender and liquid has evaporated slightly (about another minute), transfer everything to a plate and serve hot as a main dish. Enjoy your delicious stir fried vermicelli with beef!

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

Stir Fried Vermicelli with beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as part of a larger meal, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Pairing the stir fried vermicelli with a bowl of fluffy steamed rice allows you to soak up the savory sauce and adds heartiness to the meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your dish with freshly chopped cilantro or basil to add a burst of freshness and color that elevates the overall flavor profile.

As Part of a Family Style Meal

• Serve the stir fried vermicelli alongside other dishes for a family-style feast. This encourages sharing and makes for a delightful dining experience.

With Pickled Vegetables

• Adding some tangy pickled vegetables on the side can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the stir fried vermicelli.

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

To ensure your stir fried vermicelli turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried alternatives.
• Control the Heat: Cooking on medium heat allows you to properly sauté without burning ingredients, ensuring they are cooked evenly.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Soak noodles just until they’re soft but still firm. They will continue to cook when mixed with the hot ingredients.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of doubanjiang based on your spice preference. Start small and add more if desired.
• Use a Nonstick Pan: A nonstick pan helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to toss all ingredients together seamlessly.

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

Complement your meal by pairing it with these delightful side dishes that enhance your dining experience.

1. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar and sesame oil adds crunch and balances the richness of the vermicelli.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli provides both nutrition and vibrant color, making your plate visually appealing.

3. Sautéed Bok Choy
   Quickly sautéed bok choy in garlic complements the beef’s flavors while adding an earthy taste.

4. Egg Drop Soup
   A warm egg drop soup offers a comforting addition that pairs well with the main dish without overpowering it.

5. Spicy Edamame
   Seasoned edamame sprinkled with sea salt brings an enjoyable pop of flavor and texture alongside your meal.

6. Fried Tofu Cubes
   Crispy fried tofu cubes can serve as a protein-rich side, providing another texture that contrasts nicely with the noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help you achieve the best results with your stir fried vermicelli with beef.

• Using uncooked noodles: Ensure you soak the mung bean vermicelli noodles in hot water according to package instructions. This softens them and ensures they cook properly in the stir fry.
• Not pre-mixing the sauce: Mixing the sauce ingredients ahead of time makes it easier to add them quickly during cooking. This prevents overcooking the beef or vegetables.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cooking too much at once can lead to steaming rather than frying. Work in batches if necessary to maintain high heat for proper stir frying.
• Skipping the oil coating on noodles: Tossing the drained noodles with a bit of oil prevents them from sticking together later on, ensuring a better texture in your dish.
• Ignoring doneness checks: Always check if the noodles are tender before serving. If they’re still tough, cover and cook for an extra minute to achieve the right consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

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

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for best flavor and texture.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making stir fried vermicelli with beef.

What is Ma Yi Shang Shu?

Ma Yi Shang Shu, or stir fried vermicelli with beef, is a popular Sichuan dish featuring flavorful mung bean noodles cooked with ground beef and a savory sauce.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make stir fried vermicelli with beef gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use dry apple juice instead of Shaoxing apple vinegar.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground beef with chicken, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover stir fried vermicelli with beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Stir fried vermicelli with beef (Ma Yi Shang Shu) is a delightful dish that combines ease and taste perfectly. Its quick preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its customizable nature allows you to incorporate various proteins or veggies according to your liking. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of flavorful goodness!