Mongolian Beef is a sweet and savory dish that is beloved in Asian cuisine for its rich flavors and tender texture. This dish brings together the perfect combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, sautéed with tender strips of beef, often served over a bed of warm rice or fresh vegetables. Whether it’s a quick weekday dinner or a culinary treat for guests, our Mongolian Beef Recipe is sure to impress with its delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make our irresistible Mongolian Beef Recipe:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 bunch green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipments
To whip up this delicious Mongolian Beef, you will need the following kitchen tools:
- Frying pan or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Mongolian Beef Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prep the Beef
First, slice your flank steak into thin strips, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. In a mixing bowl, coat the beef strips evenly with cornstarch. This step helps create a crispy texture once the beef is cooked. Set the coated beef aside for about 10 minutes, allowing the cornstarch to adhere properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, and water, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Add the minced garlic and ginger to this mixture to build the base of the Mongolian Sauce. This sauce will impart a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the beef.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Introduce the beef strips to the hot oil, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and crispy. Transfer the beef to a plate once cooked.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same pan, pour the prepared sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Stir constantly to avoid burning and to combine all the flavors.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, return the cooked beef to the pan, tossing it to coat evenly. Add the chopped green onions and stir quickly. Remove from heat and serve your delightful Mongolian Beef over a bed of rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Serve Mongolian Beef Recipe
Serving Mongolian Beef can be as versatile as your culinary imagination allows. Typically, it pairs excellently with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy basmati rice, allowing the rice to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce. For a lower-carb option, you might serve it with cauliflower rice. To elevate the dish, garnish with sesame seeds or additional chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To ensure your Mongolian Beef turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips:
- Slice the Beef Thinly: This allows the beef to cook quickly and evenly, making it tender without being chewy.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the brown sugar amount if you prefer a less sweet dish or experiment by adding a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Proper Heat Control: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the beef; this sears it quickly, locking in juices and flavors.
High-Protein Mongolian Beef Recipe: Power Up Your Meal!
If you’re looking to boost the protein content in your Mongolian Beef, consider adding additional protein-rich ingredients. Including tofu or tempeh alongside beef can make this dish not only rich in taste but a powerhouse of nutrition. By experimenting with these variations, you can turn a delicious favorite into a muscle-building meal.
Utilize lean cuts and explore using quinoa instead of rice, which is higher in protein, while the sauce keeps the dish flavorful yet healthy. Perfect for those watching their protein intake while still wanting to indulge in Asian culinary delights.
Savor the Taste with a Low-Carb Mongolian Beef Twist!
If you’re on a low-carb diet or simply trying to reduce carbohydrates, this dish can easily be modified. Swap out sugar for a natural sweetener like erythritol or stevia, achieving the same delightful taste. Choose lower-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a fiber-rich balance.
Serve this modified version with cauliflower rice or a medley of green beans and broccoli. You’ll enjoy all the flavors without compromising your diet goals, keeping your meals light and satisfying.
Storage Instructions
Mongolian Beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply place it in a pan over medium-low heat, ensuring the beef doesn’t lose its tenderness. For long-term storage, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to two months, remembering to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef in this recipe? Absolutely! You can substitute chicken for beef; just ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Is it possible to make Mongolian Beef less sweet? Yes, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar based on your preference or use a sugar alternative.
What can I pair Mongolian Beef with? This dish goes well with a variety of sides, including steamed greens, brown rice, or even an Asian slaw for different textural contrasts.
How can I make this dish spicier? You can add sliced red chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra heat component.
Why Mongolian Beef Should Be Your Go-To Dish!
The Mongolian Beef Recipe is a perfect testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a symphony of flavors. We invite you to try this recipe, share your experiences, and experiment with variations to find your perfect balance. Share your creations on social media, and join our community for more delightful culinary explorations!
Mongolian Beef Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- flank steak
- cornstarch
- vegetable oil
- soy sauce
- brown sugar
- water
- garlic
- ginger
- green onions
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Slice the flank steak into thin strips and coat evenly with cornstarch. Set aside for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Mongolian Sauce by mixing soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, and ginger together in a bowl.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat and cook beef strips in batches until browned. Remove from pan.
- Add the sauce mixture to the same pan and bring to a gentle simmer until it thickens, stirring continuously.
- Return the beef to the pan, toss to coat with the sauce, and add green onions. Serve warm with rice or vegetables.