Stir-fried beef strips, carrots and snow peas with ramen noodles.

Oriental Beef and Noodles

1 (3-ounce) package ramen noodles with beef flavor

8 ounces boneless beef sirloin steak, cut 3/4-inch thick

1 tablespoon peanut or vegetable oil

1 medium carrot, thinly sliced

1 celery stalk, bias-sliced

1 (6-ounce) package frozen snow peas, thawed

1/4 cup water

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

2 teaspoons soy sauce

1/2 teaspoon Chinese 5-spice powder or ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package directions,except drain the noodles and reserve the seasoning packet.
2. Meanwhile, trim fat from meat. Thinly slice into bite-size strips. Set aside.
3. Add oil to a wok or large skillet. Preheat over medium-high heat (add more oil if necessary during cooking). Stir-fry carrot and celery in hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Remove vegetables from wok.
4. Add the meat to wok. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes or to desired doneness. Return cooked vegetables to wok.
5. Stir in the noodles, the reserved seasoning packet, snow peas, water, parsley, soy sauce, Chinese 5-spice powder or ground ginger and, if using, the crushed red pepper. Cook over medium heat until heated through. Serve immediately.

Makes 3 to 4 servings.