Weight Watchers Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
This Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe has been adapted to fit into your Weight Watchers plan while still delivering the flavorful experience of the original dish. With adjusted ingredients and updated nutritional information, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking your SmartPoints budget.
Yield: Serves 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean for fewer fat points)
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup brown sugar substitute (such as monk fruit sweetener for fewer SmartPoints)
1/4 cup beef broth (low-sodium for fewer SmartPoints)
1/3 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
3 tablespoons hoisin sauce (look for a lower-sugar version if possible)
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
10 oz whole wheat linguine (for more fiber and fewer SmartPoints)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
4 green onions, sliced for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the whole wheat linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to reduce calories and SmartPoints. - Add Aromatics and Sauces:
Add the minced garlic to the browned beef and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Stir in the reduced-sodium soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar substitute, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Thicken the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the skillet with the beef. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Combine with Noodles:
Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce. Let the noodles simmer with the sauce for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top of the dish. Serve hot.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, assuming 4 servings):
Calories: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 800mg
Total Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Net Carbohydrates: 32g
Sugar: 6g (from the brown sugar substitute and hoisin sauce)
Protein: 24g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints:
SmartPoints: Approximately 8 points per serving (based on the use of lean ground beef, reduced-sodium soy sauce, and whole wheat linguine)
Additional Tips:
Sweetener Substitution: Use a brown sugar substitute to reduce SmartPoints. Ensure it measures equivalently to regular sugar for accurate flavor and texture.
Hoisin Sauce: Opt for a lower-sugar hoisin sauce if available to further reduce SmartPoints.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Switching to whole wheat linguine increases fiber and can help lower the net carbs, making it a healthier option.
Reducing Sodium: Using reduced-sodium soy sauce and low-sodium beef broth helps cut down on sodium, which is beneficial for managing SmartPoints.
Enjoy this healthier take on Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles that fits seamlessly into your Weight Watchers plan while still offering a delicious and satisfying meal.