In the heart of my kitchen, the sizzling sound of beef meeting hot oil instantly transports me to bustling Asian food markets. I'm thrilled to share my take on a classic dish: Mongolian Beef. If you’re craving a quick yet flavorful meal that’ll impress your loved ones or just make your evening dinner feel special, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is a perfect blend of tender flank steak and a savory-sweet sauce that you can whip up in just 35 minutes! Plus, it’s flexible enough to serve over rice or noodles, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Aren’t you curious to dive into the magic of this dish and create a piece of culinary art in your own home?
Why is Mongolian Beef so irresistible?
Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The mix of garlic and ginger, combined with sweet soy sauce, creates a savory profile that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over fluffy rice or slurp it up with noodles; either way, you're in for a treat!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This recipe is a hit with family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds. For those looking to pair it with something great, try it alongside my perfect fried rice for a complete meal!
Homemade Goodness: Skip the takeout and enjoy the satisfaction of making a delicious meal from scratch that’s both healthy and fulfilling!
Mongolian Beef Ingredients
Craft your perfect dish with these essentials!
For the Beef
• Flank steak – tender cuts are key for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Cornstarch – helps create a crispy exterior while locking in juices.
For the Sauce
• Soy sauce – brings depth and umami flavor to the Mongolian Beef.
• Brown sugar – balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a touch of sweetness.
• Ground ginger – adds a warm spice that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
• Sesame oil – infuses a lovely, nutty aroma and enhances that Asian flair.
For Cooking
• Vegetable oil – ideal for high-heat cooking, ensuring even browning.
• Garlic – brings aromatics that make your kitchen smell divine.
• Salt and pepper – seasoning essentials to tweak the flavor to your liking.
For the Garnish
• Green onions – fresh and colorful, they add crunch and a pop of flavor.
Embrace these ingredients and get ready to serve an unforgettable Mongolian Beef that will leave everyone wanting more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mongolian Beef
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Begin by placing the sliced flank steak in a bowl and sprinkle it with cornstarch. Mix until the beef is fully coated, which will help achieve that crispy exterior. Let this mixture marinate for about 15 minutes while you prepare your cooking space to maximize flavor and texture.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the marinated beef in batches, ensuring there's space for even browning. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the meat is beautifully browned and cooked through on the edges. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until it's fragrant and golden. This step infuses the remaining oil with garlic flavor, setting the stage for the delicious sauce, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and sesame oil until well combined. Pour this sauce mixture into the skillet with the sautéed garlic, stirring continuously. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, allowing the sugar to dissolve and create a rich, flavorful base.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Once the sauce is simmering, return the cooked beef to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the beef in the savory sauce thoroughly. Allow it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching for the sauce to thicken slightly and the beef to absorb the delightful flavors of the Mongolian Beef.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Stir in the chopped green onions, which will add a fresh crunch to the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Once everything is beautifully combined, serve your Mongolian Beef hot over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, garnished with extra green onions for an appealing finish.
Mongolian Beef Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your tastes or dietary preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to keep the flavors intact.
- Chicken Alternative: Swap flank steak for sliced boneless chicken thighs for a lighter twist that absorbs flavors wonderfully.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use tofu or tempeh instead of beef, marinating and cooking until golden for a delightful plant-based meal.
- Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick that’ll ignite your taste buds.
- Extra Crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or snap peas during the final minutes of cooking for a colorful, crunchy texture.
- Honey Substitute: If you prefer a different sweetness, swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup, adding a unique flavor nuance.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil sprinkled on top right before serving for a fresh and aromatic finish.
- Whole Grain: Swap regular rice for brown rice or quinoa to enhance the dish with wholesome grains while retaining that delightful comfort.
Let your culinary adventure begin, and choose any variation that speaks to your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These Mongolian Beef preparations are ideal for those looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the sliced flank steak in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the meat to soak in the flavor and achieve that crispy texture. Simply store the beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can whip up the sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and sesame oil) and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—this keeps the flavors vibrant. When you're ready to serve, just cook the beef and garlic, add your pre-made sauce, and let everything simmer together for a quick and delicious meal that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Mongolian Beef
As the sweet and savory aroma of Mongolian Beef fills your kitchen, let’s explore the perfect accompaniments to complete this delightful meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, fragrant rice soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic provide a fresh crunch that complements the richness of the beef.
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Chinese Slaw: A tangy mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing adds a refreshing bite, balancing the dish perfectly.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy delights are stuffed with fresh veggies and proteins, making them an irresistible finger food that pairs well with the Mongolian Beef.
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Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame vinaigrette, these noodles add a nutty flavor and a delightful chewiness that enhances the meal.
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Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who like a kick, a drizzle of chili oil adds heat and complexity, elevating each bite of the beef.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, the sweet stickiness of this classic Thai treat provides a delightful contrast to the savory main dish, offering a sweet closure to your meal.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mongolian Beef
Coat Evenly: Ensure the flank steak is thoroughly coated with cornstarch to achieve that desirable crispy texture when cooked.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the beef in batches to prevent steaming; this helps in getting the perfect brown crust.
Watch the Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant; burning it can lead to a bitter taste in your Mongolian Beef.
Timing is Key: Allow the beef to simmer in the sauce long enough for flavors to meld. Aim for 2-3 additional minutes after adding meat back.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your dish before serving; seasoning is personal, and a pinch of salt or pepper can elevate the flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Mongolian Beef
Fridge: Keep your Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its flavors and keeps the beef tender.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure it’s well sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Serving Again: When ready to serve, feel free to freshen it up with additional green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil for that just-cooked flavor!
Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select and prepare flank steak?
Absolutely! When choosing flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red with minimal visible fat. A good flank steak will have a slightly firm feel and no dark spots or discoloration. To prepare, slice the steak against the grain into even strips; this will ensure tenderness when cooked.
How should I store leftovers of Mongolian Beef?
For optimal freshness, place your Mongolian Beef in an airtight container and store it in the fridge. This way, it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. If you plan on enjoying it later, let it cool down first before sealing the container.
Can I freeze Mongolian Beef? If so, how?
Yes, you can! If you want to store Mongolian Beef for a longer period, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. First, allow it to cool; then portion it into meal sizes. Make sure to label the container with the date and contents. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
What can I do if my Mongolian Beef comes out too salty?
Very! If you find your dish too salty, here are some step-by-step solutions:
- Add a small amount of water or unsalted broth to dilute the saltiness.
- Incorporate some vegetables (like bell peppers or broccoli) to balance out the flavor.
- Adding a hint of sugar can also help mitigate the saltiness—just a teaspoon at a time!
Are there any common allergens in this recipe to be aware of?
Yes, there are a couple of ingredients to keep in mind. Soy sauce contains gluten, so it’s best to opt for a gluten-free version if necessary. For those with allergies, the sesame oil should also be avoided, or replaced with an alternative oil like olive or canola oil. Enjoying a delicious meal while keeping dietary restrictions in mind is entirely possible!
Mongolian Beef: A Sweet and Savory Home-Cooked Delight
Equipment
- Skillet
- Bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 pounds flank steak sliced
- ¼ cup cornstarch
For the Sauce
- ½ cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for sautéing
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
For the Garnish
- 3 green onions chopped
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: Place the sliced flank steak in a bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch. Mix until fully coated and let marinate for 15 minutes.
- Sear the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef in batches for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and sesame oil. Pour into the skillet with garlic and bring to a simmer.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Add the cooked beef back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in chopped green onions, adjust seasoning, and serve hot over rice or noodles.
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