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Cinnamon, Beef and Noodle Soup
We first made this recipe with two cinnamon sticks, but its flavor didn't come through, so we tripled it and added anise seeds, as well. The broth was still balanced but much brighter. Instead of developing flavor by browning the beef, we got rich umami flavor from soy sauce. You can prepare the broth and meat up to three days ahead; refrigerate both until needed, then discard the solid fat from the surface of the broth and proceed.
6
Servings
Tip
Don't substitute star anise for the anise seed. Though they share a chemical compound, the flavors are different. If you can't find anise seed, the broth is still delicious without it.
3½ hours
Ingredients
-
6
3-inch cinnamon sticks
-
2
teaspoons anise seed
Directions
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01In a 7-quart Dutch oven over medium heat, toast the cinnamon sticks and anise until fragrant. Add the water, soy sauce, wine, scallion whites, cilantro and ginger. Bring to a simmer. Add the beef, cover and simmer on low until the beef is tender and falling off the bone, 2½ to 3 hours.
Reviews
January 10, 2026
Rave Reviews From Family and Friends
I made this soup last year several times, and it was terrific. Full of flavor, savory, perfect for winter dinners.
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this was super delicious and easy to make. I love the subtle anise combined with cinnamon. It tasted so warming and satisfying. I couldn't find beef shank so I just used beef tips and it was wonderful