Savoury Corned Beef and Bean Noodle Bowl

Welcome back to That's Food and Drink, food enthusiasts! Today, I've got a simple yet delicious recipe that combines a few pantry staples into a hearty meal. 

If you’ve got a tin of baked beans, a tin of corned beef, a pack of instant noodles, and a vegetable stock cube lying around, you're in for a treat. 

This recipe is perfect for those days when you need a quick and satisfying meal without too much fuss. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients:

1 tin of baked beans (400g)

1 tin of corned beef (340g)

1 pack of instant noodles (85g)

1 vegetable stock cube

500ml boiling water

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 clove of garlic, minced

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Noodles:

Begin by boiling 500ml of water. Once it’s boiling, add the vegetable stock cube and stir until it’s completely dissolved.

Add the instant noodles to the boiling stock. Cook according to the packet instructions, usually about 3 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set aside, reserving the stock.

Cook the Base:

In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients:

Add the baked beans to the pan, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Open the tin of corned beef and cut it into bite-sized chunks. Add the corned beef to the pan and gently stir to mix with the beans and onions. Cook for another 5 minutes until the corned beef is warmed through and starts to break down a bit.

Final Assembly:

Add the cooked noodles to the pan, mixing them in with the beans and corned beef. Pour in a little of the reserved stock to loosen the mixture and create a slightly saucy consistency. You may not need all the stock, so add a bit at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, the corned beef and stock are already salty, so taste before adding more salt.

Serve and Garnish:

Spoon the mixture into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting bowl of corned beef and bean noodles.

Tips and Variations:

Add Vegetables: For a bit more nutrition, you can add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas when cooking the onions.

Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of chilli flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dish.

Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese over the top just before serving for a cheesy variation.

This Savoury Corned Beef and Bean Noodle Bowl is a versatile and satisfying meal that comes together quickly. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, it’s sure to become a favourite in your household. Enjoy!

Elevate Your Instant Noodles: Transforming Basic Fare into Gourmet Delights

Instant noodles have long held the reputation of being a quick, convenient, and affordable meal option, especially for busy individuals and college students. However, their simplicity often leads to underestimating their potential. 

With a bit of creativity and some pantry staples, you can elevate these humble noodles into gourmet delights that will impress even the most discerning palates. Let's explore how to beef up instant noodles and transform them into a culinary masterpiece.

If Possible, Choose Quality Noodles:

While instant noodles are known for their convenience, not all noodles are created equal. Opt for brands that offer better quality noodles made from whole grains or rice flour. These varieties tend to have better texture and flavour compared to the cheaper options. Additionally, consider exploring different noodle shapes such as ramen, udon, or soba for added variety and authenticity.

Upgrade the Broth:

The key to turning basic instant noodles into a gourmet treat lies in the broth. Instead of just using the seasoning packet provided, create your own flavorful broth using ingredients like miso paste, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and vegetable or chicken broth. Simmer these ingredients together to develop complex flavours that will take your noodles to the next level. You can also add spices like chili flakes or Sichuan peppercorns for a kick of heat.

Incorporate Fresh Ingredients:

Fresh vegetables, protein, and herbs can transform ordinary instant noodles into a satisfying and nutritious meal. Consider adding ingredients like thinly sliced carrots, mushrooms, bell peppers, spinach, or bok choy for added texture and nutrients. For protein, you can use cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even a soft-boiled egg. Fresh herbs like coriander, green onions, or Thai basil can be used to garnish the noodles and add a burst of freshness. Also, add microgreens, if you have any.

Experiment with Flavour Enhancers:

To further enhance the flavour profile of your instant noodles, experiment with different flavor enhancers and condiments. Add a splash of sesame oil for nuttiness, a drizzle of chili oil for heat, or a squeeze of lime for acidity. Fish sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce can also add depth and complexity to the broth. Be bold! Don't be afraid to get really creative and tailor the flavours to your preferences.

Elevate with Texture:

Texture plays a crucial role in making instant noodles more enjoyable. To add crunch and contrast, consider topping your noodles with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, or crispy fried shallots. For a creamy finish, swirl in a dollop of coconut milk or tahini. These small additions can make a big difference in the overall dining experience.

Presentation Matters:

Lastly, don't forget about presentation. Serve your gourmet instant noodles in a beautiful bowl and garnish with fresh herbs and additional toppings for visual appeal. The presentation can elevate the dining experience and make your humble noodles feel like a restaurant-quality meal.

With a little creativity and some pantry staples, you can easily transform basic instant noodles into a gourmet treat that will impress even the most discerning palates. Experiment with different ingredients, flavors, and textures to create a customised bowl of noodles that satisfies your cravings and elevates your dining experience. So next time you reach for that packet of instant noodles, remember these tips and turn it into something truly extraordinary. Bon appétit!