1/4 lb Bean thread noodles
1 tb Oil
3 tb Finely chopped scallions
2 tb Finely chopped garlic
1 lb Ground beef

SAUCE
2 c Chicken stock
1 1/2 tb Chili bean sauce
1 Dried red chile; -=OR=-
1 ts -chili powder
2 tb Light soy sauce
1 ts Sesame oil

SOAK THE NOODLES in a large bowl of warm water for 15 minutes. When they
are soft, drain them and discard the water. Cut them into 3-inch lengths
using kitchen scissors or knife. Put 1 tablespoon of oil into a hot wok or
pot, then add the scallions and garlic and stir-fry quickly for a few
seconds. Add the meat and stir-fry until it is cooked. (This should take
between 5 and 10 minutes.) Then add all the sauce ingredients, except the
sesame oil and cook the mixture over a gentle heat for about 5 minutes. Now
add the drained noodles and sesame oil and cook the mixture for a further 5
minutes. Ladle some noodles and sauce into individual bowls or into one
large serving bowl, and serve at once.