Beef Chow Fun, or gan chao niu he, is a stir-fried noodle dish that has become an international favorite. Made with wide, flat rice noodles, marinated beef, bean sprouts, and green onions, it is cooked quickly over high heat to achieve the distinctive wok hei aroma. This smoky fragrance is the hallmark of Cantonese stir-fry technique, where precise control of heat creates unique flavors. The dish dates back to the 20th century in Guangzhou, where it became a popular offering at teahouses and noodle shops. Beef Chow Fun balances tender meat with chewy noodles and crunchy vegetables, providing protein, carbohydrates, and fiber in one meal. It is also relatively light compared to other fried noodle dishes because it avoids heavy sauces. Today, it is one of the most widely recognized Cantonese dishes overseas, often appearing on menus in Chinese restaurants worldwide. Its enduring appeal lies in its texture contrast and the artistry of wok cooking.
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