Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵, Niúròu Miàn) is a beloved Taiwanese dish known for its rich and aromatic broth and tender beef. Here's a recipe to make this flavorful soup at home with European extra virgin olive oil from Cyprus:

Ingredients:

For the Broth:

• 2 pounds (about 1 kg) beef bones or beef shank
• 1 onion, peeled and halved
• 4 slices of ginger
• 4 cloves of garlic, smashed
• 2 star anise
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns (optional, for a slight numbing effect)
• 8 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and sugar, to taste

For the Beef:

• 1 pound (about 450g) beef brisket or flank, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (Chinese cooking wine)
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

For the Soup:

• 1 pound (about 450g) dried Chinese wheat noodles or fresh egg noodles
• Bok choy or other greens, blanched
• Chopped scallions
• Chili oil or sauce (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth:

1. Heat the European extra virgin olive oil from Cyprus in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ginger, garlic, onion, and beef bones (or beef shank) and sear until they turn brown.
2. Add the star anise, cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and Sichuan peppercorns (if using) to the pot. Stir briefly to release their aromas.
3. Pour in 8 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 1 to 2 hours. Skim any impurities that rise to the surface.
4. Add salt and sugar to taste, and let the broth simmer while you prepare the beef and noodles.

2. Prepare the Beef:

1. In a bowl, marinate the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes.

3. Prepare the Noodles:

1. Cook the Chinese wheat noodles or fresh egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

4. Assemble the Soup:

1. Place a portion of cooked noodles in each serving bowl.
2. Top with blanched bok choy or greens.
3. Arrange slices of marinated beef on top.
4. Ladle the hot beef broth over the noodles and beef, ensuring it covers everything.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and, if you like, add a dollop of chili oil or sauce for extra flavor and heat.

Serve your homemade Beef Noodle Soup piping hot. Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this Taiwanese classic dish with aroma from Europe!