When I made Mongolian beef for the first time, I was amazed at how easy it was to recreate that rich, sweet-savory flavor at home. The tender strips of beef drenched in a sticky soy-ginger sauce instantly impressed my family, and better yet, it tasted just like a restaurant-quality dish.
Trust me, this recipe will become your go-to for a quick, satisfying dinner that everyone will rave about. Whether you serve it with rice or tuck it into lettuce wraps, you’re in for a treat!
Credit: asouthernsoul
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to pull off a fantastic Mongolian beef dish. Each ingredient serves a specific purpose, so don’t skip the details.
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (plus 2 tablespoons, divided): This is used for stir-frying and prevents sticking.
- ½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger: Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced): Enhances the savory, aromatic base of the sauce.
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Balances the salty and umami flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ cup water: Helps dilute the sauce to the right consistency.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Brings the perfect sweetness to caramelize and coat the beef.
- 1 pound flank steak (thinly sliced): The star of the dish that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- ⅓ cup cornstarch: Gives the beef a light crust while thickening the sauce.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Adds a fresh pop of flavor and color.
Note: This recipe serves four people generously. Adjust ingredient quantities for larger or smaller servings, but keep the ratios similar to maintain the dish’s balance.
Variations to Try
Whether you have dietary restrictions or want to mix up the flavors, these variations are worth considering:
- Gluten-Free: Swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.
- Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or a touch of honey if natural sugars are acceptable.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a colorful, nutrient-packed twist.
- Spicy Boost: Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for mild heat.
Cooking Time
Get dinner on the table in no time with this quick recipe!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
These tools make preparing Mongolian beef a breeze:
- Chef’s Knife: For slicing the beef against the grain into thin strips.
- Cutting Board: To safely prepare your ingredients.
- Frying Pan or Wok: Ensures even cooking and a great sear on the beef.
- Small Bowl: For mixing and holding the sauce.
- Tongs: Helps turn the beef strips while minimizing mess.
How to Make Mongolian Beef Recipe?
Making this Mongolian beef is straightforward, even for beginners. Follow these steps for a restaurant-worthy dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the flank steak thinly, about ¼ inch thick. To make cutting easier, place the beef in the freezer for 20 minutes before slicing. Toss the beef strips in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. This step not only helps create a crispy exterior but also thickens the sauce later on.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Ginger
Heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stirring frequently for about a minute until the aroma fills the kitchen. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Stir in the soy sauce, water, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting it bubble for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly. Once ready, transfer the sauce to a small bowl to use later.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Cook the cornstarch-coated beef in small batches for about two minutes per batch. Avoid crowding the pan, as this can steam the beef instead of searing it. Remove the beef and set it aside as it cooks.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked beef back into the pan, then pour in the sauce. Stir everything together over medium heat until the beef is coated and the sauce is hot and bubbly. Toss in your sliced green onions, then remove the pan from the heat. Serve hot over steamed rice or your preferred side.
Credit: munchkintime
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
After experimenting with this recipe a few times, I’ve found some tips that make it even better:
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: It’s essential for creating that crispy crust on the beef.
- Cut Against the Grain: This makes the beef more tender and easier to chew.
- Work in Small Batches: Frying just a few strips at a time ensures the beef sears properly.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness in your sauce, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or stir-fried bell peppers during the final step for added color and texture.
You can also enjoy similar beef recipes like Beef Pan-Fried Noodles.
How to Serve Mongolian Beef Recipe?
Here are some tasty and visually pleasing ways to serve this dish:
- Over Steamed Rice: A classic option that absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.
- Noodles: For a more filling meal, serve over egg noodles or stir-fried lo mein.
- Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the beef into crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb twist.
- Garnish: Top with sesame seeds and a few extra slices of green onion for an elegant finish.
Nutritional Information
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a hearty dose of nutrients:
- Calories: 342
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 8g
Make Ahead and Storage
This Mongolian beef recipe is excellent for meal prepping and storing.
- Restoring: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
- Freezing: Freeze smaller portions for easy reheating later. It stays fresh for up to four months in the freezer.
- Reheating: Reheat over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
There’s so much to love about Mongolian beef! Here are just a few reasons:
- Quick and Easy: You can have it ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Budget-Friendly: Costs a fraction of what takeout would.
- Versatile: Add your favorite veggies or customize the spice level to suit your taste.
- Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Restaurant Quality: Tastes just like your favorite takeout—but fresher and healthier.
Recreate this Mongolian beef recipe in your kitchen, and you won’t miss the restaurant variety. Its perfectly tender beef, rich sauce, and customizable options make it an irresistible choice for a weeknight dinner or a special treat. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones. For more beef recipe ideas, check out Beef Recipe.