Beef Noodle Soup: from Sichuan, to Taiwan, and back

beef

Healthier: chicken

Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and often less expensive than beef.

Sichuan peppercorns

Healthier: black pepper

Cheaper: white pepper

Black pepper is more readily available and adds spice.

chili oil

Healthier: olive oil with chili flakes

Cheaper: homemade chili oil

Homemade options can be more economical.

beef broth

Healthier: vegetable broth

Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth reduces calories and can be made at home.

beef shank

Healthier: chicken thighs

Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken thighs are leaner, while pork shoulder is often less expensive.

beef broth

Healthier: vegetable broth

Cheaper: water + bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in calories, and bouillon is a budget-friendly option.

soy sauce

Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake, while tamari is often cheaper.

Chinese wheat noodles

Healthier: whole wheat noodles

Cheaper: spaghetti

Whole wheat noodles add fiber, and spaghetti is widely available.