For the Ground Beef:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor, but leaner works too) – The star of the show, ground beef provides a hearty and satisfying base. Opt for a good quality ground beef for the best taste. For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Essential for browning the ground beef and sautéing the aromatics. Canola oil or avocado oil are also good substitutes.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the base of the sauce. White onion or shallots can be used as alternatives.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – A cornerstone of Asian cuisine, garlic provides a pungent and savory aroma. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced – Ginger adds a warm, zesty kick that brightens the dish and complements the other flavors beautifully. If using ground ginger, start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness, color, and a slight crunch. You can substitute with other bell pepper colors or use different vegetables like carrots or broccoli florets.
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely minced (for heat) – If you like a bit of spice, jalapeño adds a pleasant warmth. Remove seeds for less heat, or use a milder chili like Fresno pepper.

For the Sauce:

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce – The foundation of the umami-rich sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce allows you to control the saltiness and is generally recommended for a more balanced flavor. Tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) can also be used.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. Light or dark brown sugar works equally well. Honey or maple syrup can be used as substitutes, but may slightly alter the flavor.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides acidity and tanginess, cutting through the richness of the sauce and adding brightness. Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes in a pinch.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – Essential for that authentic Asian flavor. Toasted sesame oil is recommended for its richer aroma and taste.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – Used as a thickening agent to create a luscious sauce that coats the noodles and beef beautifully. Arrowroot powder is a good gluten-free alternative.
• 1/4 cup water – Helps to thin out the sauce and allows the flavors to meld together.

For the Noodles and Garnish:

• 1 pound Asian noodles (such as lo mein, chow mein, or spaghetti) – The base of the meal. Lo mein or chow mein noodles are traditionally used and offer a satisfying chew. Spaghetti or linguine can be used as readily available substitutes. Rice noodles are a gluten-free option.
• Optional garnishes:

  • Chopped green onions – Adds freshness and a mild oniony bite.
  • Sesame seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal.
  • Red pepper flakes – For an extra kick of heat.
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds a bright, herbaceous flavor.
  • Lime wedges – A squeeze of lime juice at the end brightens the dish and adds a final touch of acidity.