Liang Gua Neu Rou

Liang Gua Neu Rou Recipe from Hong Kong with Beef and Bitter Gourd

Region / culture: Hong Kong | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Liang Gua Neu Rou is a traditional Chinese dish that combines the bitterness of bitter gourd with the savory flavors of beef and fermented black beans. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

History

Liang Gua Neu Rou has been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated in the southern regions of China, where bitter gourd is a common ingredient in cooking. The combination of bitter gourd with beef and fermented black beans creates a unique and flavorful dish that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

150 g beef
350 g bitter gourd
2 red peppers
2 tbsp fermented black bean
2 tbsp mashed garlic

Seasoning 1

1 tbsp light soy sauce
0.5 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp corn flour
0.5 tbsp oil
0.5 tbsp water

Seasoning 2

0.5 tbsp light soy sauce
3 tbsp water
0.33 tbsp sugar
0.33 tbsp salt

Sauce

0.5 tbsp corn flour
2 tbsp water
some sesame oil
some pepper

How to prepare

Wash the beef, pat it dry, and shred it. Marinate it with seasoning (1) for 10 minutes.
Wash the bitter gourd and red pepper, remove the seeds, and shred them.
Wash the fermented black bean and gently press it with your fingers.
Heat a wok with 4 tbsp of oil and stir fry the shredded bitter gourd until it turns deep green.
Add the fermented black bean and minced garlic to the wok and stir fry them.
Add seasoning (2) and continue stir frying until it becomes dry. Then, remove from heat.
Heat the wok again with 2 tbsp of oil and stir fry the shredded beef.
Add the stir-fried bitter gourd when the beef is almost cooked.
Continue stir frying and add the shredded red pepper along with the sauce.
Stir fry and mix everything well. Then, remove from heat and serve.

Variations

Substitute chicken or pork for the beef.
Add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to marinate the beef for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- Stir fry the bitter gourd until it turns deep green to bring out its natural flavors.

- Be careful not to overcook the beef to ensure it remains tender and juicy.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less sugar, salt, or soy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Liang Gua Neu Rou with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Stir frying is the main cooking technique used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use tofu or tempeh as a vegetarian alternative to beef.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the beef and prepare the vegetables ahead of time to save time when cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Liang Gua Neu Rou with a light and refreshing cucumber salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Bitter gourd is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame oil.

Summary

Liang Gua Neu Rou is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Liang Gua Neu Rou is a flavorful and nutritious Chinese dish that is perfect for a family meal. With the right balance of bitter gourd, beef, and fermented black beans, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. I had always loved trying new dishes and experimenting with different flavors in the kitchen, but this one was unlike anything I had ever come across before. Liang Gua Neu Rou, a traditional Chinese dish made with cold cucumber and minced meat, seemed to be a perfect blend of freshness and savory goodness.

I first learned about this recipe from a dear friend of mine who had recently returned from a trip to China. She had raved about the delicious flavors and unique ingredients she had discovered during her travels, and when she shared the recipe for Liang Gua Neu Rou with me, I knew I had to give it a try.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could feel my excitement building. The combination of crisp cucumber, tender minced meat, and a medley of seasonings seemed to promise a truly delightful culinary experience. I wasted no time gathering the necessary ingredients and setting to work in my kitchen.

I started by preparing the cucumber, slicing it thinly and salting it to draw out any excess moisture. While the cucumber rested, I turned my attention to the minced meat, sautéing it with ginger, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce until it was cooked through and fragrant. The aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to make my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the meat was ready, I set it aside to cool and turned back to the cucumber. I rinsed it thoroughly, squeezing out any excess water, before tossing it with a simple dressing of vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. The contrast of the cool, crunchy cucumber with the warm, savory meat was a revelation to my taste buds.

As I mixed the two components together, I could see how the flavors complemented each other perfectly. The tangy sweetness of the cucumber balanced out the rich umami of the meat, creating a dish that was both refreshing and satisfying. I couldn't wait to dig in and see if it tasted as good as it looked.

When I finally sat down to enjoy my creation, I was not disappointed. The first bite was a burst of flavor, the crunch of the cucumber giving way to the tender meat and a symphony of spices dancing on my tongue. I savored each mouthful, relishing in the unique combination of textures and tastes that Liang Gua Neu Rou had to offer.

In that moment, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. I made a mental note to share it with my family and friends, knowing that they would love it just as much as I did. And as I polished off the last bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the journey that had led me to discover such a delicious and satisfying dish.

From that day on, Liang Gua Neu Rou became a beloved favorite in my repertoire of recipes. I would often make it for special occasions and gatherings, delighting in the smiles and praises of those who sampled it. And each time I prepared it, I couldn't help but think back to that first moment of awe when I laid eyes on the recipe and knew that it would forever hold a special place in my heart and in my kitchen.