Long, thin noodles mean 'long life' to the Chinese. Ramen noodles give life to this dish of marinated beef strips combined with crisp broccoli florets and sliced carrots in a sizzling stir-fry.

Beef Broccoli Stir-Fry with Noodles

1 1/2 pounds round steak, cut into 1/8-inch strips
3 (3-ounce) packets beef flavored ramen noodles
2 cups water - divided use
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil - divided use
1/2 pound broccoli, cut into florets
2 carrots, sliced

1. Combine flavor packets from ramen noodles, 1/2 cup water and cornstarch in a large bowl; Add steak, toss to coat; refrigerate for 20 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and carrots; stir-fry for 1 minute. Break ramen noodles into bits; add to skillet with remaining 1 1/2 cups water.
   Cover; simmer on low for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
3. Transfer vegetable-noodle mixture to a warm bowl; cover and set aside.
4. Return skillet or wok to stove. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil on medium-high. Remove beef from marinade; discard marinade. Stir-fry beef for 2 minutes or until cooked thoroughly. Serve over vegetable-noodle mixture.

Makes 4 servings.