Walking into my kitchen, I can almost hear my family’s anticipation as they catch a whiff of something undeniably mouthwatering. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Mongolian Beef—a dish that combines tender, juicy flank steak with a savory-sweet sauce that’s both quick to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Not only does this recipe come together in just 25 minutes, but it also reminds me of those comforting meals shared with loved ones, free from the fast-food fatigue that creeps into our lives. Now, who wouldn’t want a fragrant, hearty dish like this, ready in a flash? Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Mongolian Beef!
Why is Mongolian Beef a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: You only need a few ingredients for a dish that feels like a gourmet experience.
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: The blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates an explosion of flavors that your taste buds will love.
Quick Prep: In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, noodles, or fresh lettuce wraps to mix things up!
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy dinners.
Elevate your meals with this irresistible Mongolian Beef recipe and experience the joy it brings to your table!
Mongolian Beef Ingredients
For the Beef
• Flank steak – a tender cut that absorbs flavors wonderfully, ensuring each bite is juicy and satisfying.
• Cornstarch – adds a crispy texture to the beef when seared, making it irresistible!
For the Sauce
• Soy sauce – provides that savory umami depth that elevates the whole dish.
• Brown sugar – balances the saltiness with a hint of sweetness, crucial for the rich sauce.
• Garlic – infuses a delightful aroma and depth of flavor; use fresh for the best taste!
• Grated ginger – adds warmth and spice to the sauce; if you don’t have fresh, ground ginger will do in a pinch.
• Water or beef broth – enhances the sauce’s richness; broth will deepen the flavor even more.
For Cooking
• Vegetable oil – perfect for high-heat cooking and achieving that lovely sear on the beef.
For Garnish
• Green onions – fresh and vibrant, they add a pop of color and freshness to every bite.
• Optional: toasted sesame seeds – a delightful garnish that gives a nutty flavor and elegant touch.
Ready to whip up this quick and flavorful Mongolian Beef? You’ll love how simple ingredients create such a delightful meal that everyone will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mongolian Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain, ensuring each piece is tender. Toss the sliced beef in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch until evenly coated; this will create a crispy texture when cooked. Allow the beef to sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of soy sauce, ¼ cup of brown sugar, 2 minced cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger, and ¼ cup of water or beef broth. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that will perfectly complement your Mongolian Beef.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, watching for the oil to shimmer. This indicates it's hot enough for searing. Once heated, you're ready to add the beef, ensuring it sizzles as it hits the pan.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
Add the beef slices in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. The beef should turn a lovely brown and become slightly crispy. Once nicely browned, remove the cooked beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 5: Cook the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce into the hot skillet and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes. You'll notice the sauce beginning to thicken slightly, which enhances its flavor and texture, making it oh-so-delicious.
Step 6: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the seared beef to the skillet, tossing it in the bubbling sauce to ensure every piece is warmly coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for the flavors to meld beautifully, allowing the beef to soak up that wonderful Mongolian essence.
Step 7: Add Green Onions
Just before finishing, stir in the chopped green onions, letting them wilt slightly for about 30 seconds. This adds a fresh burst of flavor, balancing the savory richness of your Mongolian Beef.
Step 8: Serve the Dish
Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and serve the Mongolian Beef hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or atop sautéed vegetables. You can also garnish with additional green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a touch of elegance!
Make Ahead Options
Mongolian Beef is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the flank steak and toss it with cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to mingle while keeping the beef tender. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and broth) up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil, sear the beef, and add the prepared sauce to the skillet. This way, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality Mongolian Beef with minimal effort, all while saving precious time during busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Mongolian Beef
Fridge: Store Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain its delicious flavor and moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen Mongolian Beef overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it saucy and delicious!
What to Serve with Mongolian Beef
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that beautifully complement this savory dish, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the rich sauce, balancing the flavors and enhancing each bite.
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Garlic Noodles: Tossed in fragrant garlic and soy, these noodles bring a delightful twist with their savory depth.
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Sautéed Vegetables: Crisp and fresh veggies add color and crunch, providing a brisk contrast to the tender beef.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that adds a cool crunch, pairing perfectly with the warmth of Mongolian Beef.
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Asian Slaw: The crunchy textures and tangy dressing invigorate the palate, offering a vibrant contrast to the dish.
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Egg Rolls: Crunchy on the outside with a savory filling, these make an excellent starter that fits seamlessly with the meal.
For something sweet, pair it with Mango Sticky Rice for dessert, balancing spices with a tropical finish. Enjoy your culinary journey!
Mongolian Beef Variations & Substitutions
Get creative in the kitchen and tailor this Mongolian Beef to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil for a subtle sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Flank steak, when cooked right, brings a juicy texture. With coconut oil, every bite invites your senses into a tropical escape. -
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep the flavors while making it gluten-free.
This adjustment maintains the rich umami essence, ensuring everyone can join in the deliciousness without compromise. -
Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chilies or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for a zesty heat that elevates each bite.
Heat lovers rejoice! A hint of spiciness enhances the savory sauce, creating an invigorating experience with every forkful. -
Vegetarian: Replace beef with sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or tofu for a veggie-packed alternative that’s just as tasty.
Stir-fried vegetables soak up the savory sauce beautifully, offering a delightful crunch and flavor explosion that pleases everyone. -
Beef Broth Boost: Use homemade beef broth instead of water for an extra layer of flavor in the sauce.
Rich and hearty, this twist ensures the sauce captivates with depth and personality, transforming your dish into something extraordinary. -
Noodle Delight: Serve Mongolian Beef over stir-fried noodles instead of rice for a different texture and flavor profile.
Noodles absorb the sauce’s richness, inviting your palate to a comforting embrace with every delectable twirl. -
Sweet & Sour Twist: Incorporate pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy addition that pairs beautifully with the savory notes.
The burst of juicy sweetness from each pineapple piece adds an unexpected delight, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. -
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
Herbs elevate the entire experience, adding an aromatic touch that dances joyfully alongside the savory richness of the beef.
Expert Tips for Mongolian Beef
• Cut Against the Grain: Ensure you slice the flank steak against the grain to guarantee tenderness in each bite.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the beef in batches; overcrowding will steam the meat rather than sear it, ruining the texture.
• Thicken the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly, enhancing the rich flavor of your Mongolian Beef.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger truly elevate the dish; avoid pre-minced versions for the best taste.
• Serving Suggestions: Mix things up! Try serving the Mongolian Beef in lettuce wraps for a lighter twist or over rice for a classic experience.
Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs
What type of flank steak should I use?
For the best results, choose a flank steak that's bright red in color and firm to the touch. Look for one with minimal visible fat or dark spots. A good cut will ensure that the beef remains tender and absorbs the delicious flavors of the sauce beautifully.
How long can I store Mongolian Beef in the fridge?
You can store Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing it to lock in moisture and prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the Mongolian Beef cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it up in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth for added moisture.
What should I do if my sauce isn't thickening?
If your sauce isn't thickening as expected, try simmering it a bit longer over medium heat. If it's still too thin, you can create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the sauce and let it cook for an additional minute until it's glossy and thickened.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! This Mongolian Beef recipe contains soy sauce, so be cautious if you or your guests have a soy allergy. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, keep in mind that the dish is not suitable for pets due to the high sodium content in soy sauce.
Can I use another cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while flank steak is recommended for its tenderness, you can substitute it with sirloin or ribeye if needed. Just ensure you cut it thinly against the grain and adjust the cooking time as necessary to achieve that same juicy finish.
Irresistibly Juicy Mongolian Beef You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain, toss in cornstarch and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water or broth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the beef slices in batches, searing for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Remove the cooked beef and pour the sauce into the skillet, simmering for 2-3 minutes.
- Return beef to skillet and toss in the sauce, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in green onions and cook for 30 seconds before serving.
- Serve hot over jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or sautéed vegetables.
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