Introduction Paragraph

Guilin Rice Noodles (桂林米粉, Guìlín Mǐfěn) are a regional treasure from Guilin, a picturesque city in Southern China. Known for their unique chewy rice noodles and complex layering of flavors, this dish brings together savory braised beef, spicy chili sauce, pickled vegetables, peanuts, and herbs—all served in a rich beef broth or dry (mixed) version. Whether you enjoy it with soup or without, Guilin Rice Noodles are a satisfying, bold, and customizable meal perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s Chinese comfort food at its finest, offering texture, heat, and umami in every bite.

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Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 3–4

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Ingredients List

For the Braised Beef:

• 350g (12 oz) beef brisket or shank, cubed
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 2 slices ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or Shaoxing wine
• 1 star anise
• 1/2 stick cinnamon
• 2 cups water or beef broth
• Salt to taste

For the Rice Noodles & Toppings:

• 300g thick rice noodles (pre-soaked if dried)
• 1/2 cup pickled long beans (or mustard greens), chopped
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 spring onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons garlic chili paste (or to taste)
• 2 boiled eggs, halved (optional)
• Fresh coriander (optional)
• Soy sauce or black vinegar to drizzle (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Braise the Beef

In a pot, heat oil and sauté ginger and garlic. Add beef and sear until browned. Stir in soy sauces, rice wine, star anise, cinnamon, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 hour until beef is tender.
Why this matters: Slow braising infuses the beef with flavor and makes it melt-in-your-mouth soft—a key component of Guilin-style noodles.

Step 2: Cook the Rice Noodles

Cook noodles according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
Why this matters: Rinsing keeps the noodles firm and prevents clumping. Guilin noodles should be chewy and springy.

Step 3: Prepare Toppings

Chop pickled beans, crush peanuts, and slice spring onions. Halve boiled eggs if using. Have all toppings ready for assembly.
Why this matters: Guilin noodles are about texture layering. Having toppings prepped ensures fast and fun assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

In each bowl, place a serving of noodles. Add beef slices and spoon some braising liquid over. Top with pickled beans, peanuts, green onion, chili sauce, egg halves, and herbs.
Why this matters: Every topping adds depth. Customize to your spice and texture preference—just like in Guilin noodle shops!

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Suggested Add-ons or Toppings List

• Black vinegar drizzle
• Crispy shallots
• Sautéed garlic in oil
• Fresh bean sprouts
• Soy-braised tofu (for vegetarian option)

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Health Benefits Section

• Rice noodles – Gluten-free and easy to digest
• Beef – High in iron and protein
• Pickled vegetables – Great for gut health due to natural probiotics
• Garlic and ginger – Natural immune boosters
• Peanuts – Provide healthy fats and texture

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Replace beef with soy-braised tofu and use vegetable broth. Keep the same toppings for flavor.

2. Is this dish spicy?
Only if you add chili sauce. The base dish is savory, not inherently spicy.

3. Can I prepare the beef ahead of time?
Absolutely. Braised beef can be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.

4. What if I can’t find pickled long beans?
Substitute with pickled mustard greens or kimchi for a tangy bite.

5. Can I serve this without broth?
Yes, Guilin Rice Noodles can also be served dry with just sauce and toppings—authentic both ways!

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Nutritional Information Table (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	580
Protein	27g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	68g
Fiber	3g
Net Carbs	65g

Estimated values; adjust based on toppings and portion size.

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Diet Tags or Labels

Gluten-Free • High-Protein • Authentic Chinese • Customizable • Comfort Food

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Conclusion

Guilin Rice Noodles are more than just a bowl of noodles—they’re a journey into Southern China’s rich culinary tradition. With hearty beef, chewy rice noodles, and a variety of zesty toppings, this dish is full of character and warmth. Whether served in soup or dry, it offers a deeply flavorful experience for noodle lovers everywhere. Save this recipe, give it your own twist, and share the love with friends and family!