Quick Beef and Pepper Noodles with Creamy Sesame-Lime Sauce

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Place the rice noodles in a large bowl and cover them with very hot water, about 175°F/80°C, for 6 to 8 minutes, until tender but still slightly firm. Drain, rinse briefly, and set aside.

2. 2

   2. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, creamy peanut butter, honey, lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, water, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until smooth.

3. 3

   3. Pat the beef strips dry and season them with the salt. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat for 1 minute and add the vegetable oil.

4. 4

   4. Stir-fry the beef for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing often, until browned at the edges and nearly cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

5. 5

   5. In the same skillet, add the sesame oil, the white part of the scallions, the garlic, the red bell pepper, and the yellow bell pepper. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring, until the peppers are tender-crisp.

6. 6

   6. Return the beef to the skillet along with the drained noodles. Pour in the prepared sauce and toss for 1 to 2 minutes, until the noodles are evenly coated and everything is hot.

7. 7

   7. Turn off the heat and add the green part of the scallions, the fresh cilantro, and half of the sesame seeds. Toss once more.

8. 8

   8. Serve immediately and finish with the remaining sesame seeds and a little extra lime zest if desired.