Tomato Egg and Beef Noodle Soup
This hearty soup combines tender beef, savory tomatoes, silky egg ribbons, and chewy noodles to create a comforting bowl of goodness perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the beef and marinade:
- 1 lb beef (sirloin, flank, or chuck), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- Pinch of salt and pepper
For the soup:
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced or finely grated
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 cup fresh tomato, diced (about 2 medium tomatoes)
- 2 cups beef broth (low sodium if preferred)
- 1 cup water (or adjust for desired soup consistency)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (adds a subtle tang)
- 1 tsp sugar (balances the acidity of the tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the egg and noodles:
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 package of noodles (such as ramen, udon, or egg noodles), cooked per package directions
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
- Place the thinly sliced beef in a bowl. Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Let the beef marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Prepare the Aromatics:
- Heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
3. Cook the Beef:
- Add the marinated beef to the pot. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, just until the beef is lightly browned. It doesn’t need to cook through completely yet, as it will simmer later.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir to combine.
- Add 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp sugar. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Sprinkle in half of the chopped green onions, saving the rest for garnish.
5. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and the beef become tender.
6. Add the Egg Ribbons:
- Push the soup ingredients to one side of the pot to create a clear space. Slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the broth in a thin stream.
- Let the eggs set for about 30 seconds without stirring, then gently swirl the soup with a spoon or chopsticks to form delicate egg ribbons.
7. Assemble and Serve:
- Place the cooked noodles in serving bowls.
- Ladle the hot soup over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets a generous portion of beef, tomatoes, and egg ribbons.
- Garnish with the remaining green onions for freshness and color.
Serving Tips:
- Add a drizzle of sesame oil or chili oil for extra flavor.
- For a spicier kick, top with red pepper flakes or a dollop of chili paste.
- Pair the soup with a side of pickled vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
This soup is a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and umami flavors, made even better by the comforting texture of noodles and tender beef. It’s sure to become a family favorite!