Beef Chow Fun is one of the most iconic Cantonese stir-fry dishes — a savory combination of marinated beef, wide rice noodles, bean sprouts, and scallions tossed in a smoky, umami-rich sauce. This popular takeout favorite is known for its bold flavor, chewy texture, and signature wok hei aroma, which comes from high-heat stir-frying.
With the right ingredients and technique, you can easily recreate restaurant-quality Beef Chow Fun in your own kitchen, no wok required. This recipe is perfect for weeknight meals and pairs beautifully with steamed greens or a hot bowl of soup.
Ingredients
This recipe makes 2 to 3 servings.
For the Beef Marinade
- 8 ounces flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry (optional)
For the Chow Fun
- 8 to 10 ounces wide rice noodles (fresh or pre-soaked dried rice noodles)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 3 to 4 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (adds color and depth)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- Optional: a dash of white pepper or chili oil for extra heat
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes (includes marinating)
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain for tenderness.
- In a bowl, mix the beef with cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and Shaoxing wine.
- Let marinate for 15 to 20 minutes while you prepare other ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
- If using fresh rice noodles, gently separate them into individual strands.
- If using dried rice noodles, soak according to package instructions until pliable but not mushy, then drain and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef in a single layer and sear for 1 to 2 minutes without stirring.
- Flip and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until browned but still tender. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Noodles and Veggies
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan.
- Add garlic and quickly sauté for 10 to 15 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the rice noodles and gently toss to coat with the oil.
- Stir in the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Toss gently to combine without breaking the noodles.
- Add the bean sprouts and scallions and stir-fry for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked beef to the pan.
- Toss everything together gently over high heat for another 30 seconds to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve immediately while hot, with optional chili oil or extra scallions for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a standalone main dish or with a side of Chinese broccoli with garlic.
- Add a fried egg on top for extra protein and richness.
- Pair with hot jasmine tea or light soup for a complete meal.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 2 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 26 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 48 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 980 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Beef provides complete protein and iron.
- Rice noodles are gluten-free and provide complex carbs.
- Bean sprouts and scallions add freshness, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Moderate sodium can be reduced by using low-sodium soy sauce.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chow Fun
- Use high heat to achieve the desired smoky flavor. A cast iron skillet or wok works best.
- Avoid over-stirring the noodles to prevent them from breaking. Toss gently instead.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for proper browning.
- Prep everything ahead of time. This dish comes together quickly and requires fast cooking.
Variations to Try
- Substitute chicken, shrimp, or tofu for the beef.
- Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or snow peas for extra color and nutrition.
- For a spicy version, stir in a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or Szechuan pepper oil.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting beef and using plant-based oyster sauce.
Beef Chow Fun is a bold and satisfying noodle dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. With tender beef, smoky noodles, and crisp vegetables all tossed in a savory sauce, it’s no wonder this Cantonese classic has become a global favorite.