🍜 Lanzhou-Style Spicy Beef Noodles (Lenso Beef Noodles)

beef shank

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken is leaner, while pork is often less expensive.

chili oil

🥗Healthier: homemade chili oil

💰Cheaper: red pepper flakes in oil

Homemade options can reduce additives and costs.

beef broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in calories, and bouillon is cost-effective.

noodles

🥗Healthier: whole grain noodles

💰Cheaper: instant noodles

Whole grain is healthier, while instant noodles are budget-friendly.

In a large pot, add beef/mutton, onion, ginger, garlic, fennel seeds, cumin seeds, star anise, cloves, chilli flakes, and salt.

Pour enough water to cover everything (about 6–8 cups).

Boil on high flame, then lower the heat and simmer until the meat is soft and tender.

Once done, strain the broth and separate the meat. Keep both aside.

Heat 1 cup oil in a small pan.

Add chopped garlic, ginger, sesame seeds, and star anise. Fry until fragrant and lightly golden.

Add chilli flakes and salt, mix well, then turn off the flame.

Add 2 tbsp chilli oil (optional but adds great flavor). Let the sauce cool slightly before using.

In a serving bowl, place boiled noodles.

Pour hot yakhni (broth) over the noodles.

Add cooked beef pieces on top.

Spoon 2 tablespoons of the spicy sauce over it.

Garnish with coriander leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens