Beef hor fun

Matt Tebbutt recipe
Hor fun is a popular Cantonese dish featuring flat rice noodles. It is a delicious and comforting meal. This beef hor fun recipe combines tender slices of beef with silky noodles and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a savoury sauce.

Preparation time
over 2 hours

Cooking time
10 to 30 mins

Serves
Serves 4

By Andrew Wong
From Saturday Kitchen

 


This beef hor fun recipe is relatively balanced, providing protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the noodles, and some vegetables. However, the deep-frying method and use of sauces contribute to its moderate calorie and sodium content.


Equipment


Ingredients

For the beef:

  • Beef rump steak: 200g/7oz
  • Vegetable oil: 2 tbsp, plus extra for deep frying
  • Onion: 10g, finely sliced
  • Spring onion greens: 10g, cut into 2cm/¾in pieces
  • Beansprouts: 20g/¾oz
  • Hor fun noodles: 800g/1lb 12oz, partially dried
  • Shaoxing rice wine: 1 tbsp
  • Oyster sauce: 2 tbsp
  • Dark soy sauce: 1 tbsp
  • Sesame oil: 2 tsp
  • White pepper: pinch
  • Lemon rind: freshly grated, to garnish (optional)

For the marinade:

  • Light soy sauce: 2 tsp
  • Shaoxing rice wine: 1 tsp
  • Potato starch: 7g
  • Baking powder: 1g

Method

Prepare the beef

  • Partially freeze beef for 1½ hours.
  • Slice the beef thinly (1mm/1/16in).
  • Mix marinade ingredients with 50ml water.
  • Marinate beef for 2 hours in the fridge.

Cook the beef

  • Heat oil to 180C in a deep fat fryer.
  • Deep-fry marinated beef in batches until colour changes.
  • Drain on kitchen paper.

Prepare the noodles

  • Microwave noodles in water for 60 seconds on high.

Stir-fry and serve

  • Heat oil in a wok until smoking.
  • Fry onion, spring onion, beansprouts, and beef.
  • Add rice wine, noodles, oyster sauce, and dark soy sauce.
  • Finish with sesame oil and pepper.
  • Garnish with lemon rind if desired.
  • Serve immediately.

Suggested Wine Pairing

Majestic: Definition Marlborough Pinot Noir
This light-bodied red wine complements the beef without overpowering the delicate flavours of the hor fun. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, while its subtle cherry notes enhance the umami flavours.

Tesco: Tesco Finest Premier Cru Chablis
For those preferring white wine, this unoaked Chardonnay offers crisp acidity that pairs well with the savory sauces. Its mineral notes provide a refreshing contrast to the rich beef and noodles.

Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference Zweigelt
This Austrian red wine offers soft tannins and bright red fruit flavours that complement the beef hor fun. Its slight spiciness enhances the dish’s umami notes without overwhelming the palate.


What can you serve with this

  1. Chinese broccoli (Gai lan): Steamed or stir-fried, it adds a nutritious green element to the meal.
  2. Hot and sour soup: A tangy soup provides a nice contrast to the rich hor fun.
  3. Spring rolls: Crispy spring rolls offer a textural contrast to the soft noodles.
  4. Pickled vegetables: The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
  5. Egg drop soup: A light soup complements the hearty hor fun without filling you up too much.

Nutri-score Health Check

This beef hor fun recipe receives a Nutri-Score of B, indicating it is a moderately healthy dish. The score is based on the following factors:

  • Good source of protein from the beef
  • Presence of vegetables (beansprouts, onions, spring onions)
  • Complex carbohydrates from the hor fun noodles
  • Use of vegetable oil for cooking
  • Higher sodium content due to soy sauce and oyster sauce
  • Deep-frying method for the beef increases fat content

The score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide. While this dish provides a balance of nutrients, be mindful of portion sizes due to its calorie density.

Recipe FAQ

  • Can I use a different cut of beef?
    Yes, you can use sirloin or flank steak as alternatives to rump steak.
  • Is it possible to make this dish without deep-frying the beef?
    You can stir-fry the beef instead, though the texture will be different.
  • Can I use fresh hor fun noodles instead of partially dried ones?
    Fresh noodles can be used, but reduce the microwave time to avoid overcooking.
  • What’s a good vegetarian substitute for beef in this recipe?
    Firm tofu or seitan can be used as a vegetarian alternative.
  • How long can I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
  • Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
    Yes, sliced carrots or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and colour.
  • Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
    Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your oyster sauce is gluten-free. Also, check that your hor fun noodles are 100% rice.
  • What if I can’t find Shaoxing rice wine?
    Dry sherry or mirin can be used as substitutes, though the flavour will be slightly different.
  • Can I prepare any parts of this meal in advance?
    You can slice and marinate the beef a day ahead, but cook the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavour.
  • How spicy is this dish?
    This recipe is not spicy, but you can add chilli oil or sliced fresh chillies if you prefer some heat.

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