Mongolian Beef

EASY Mongolian Beef recipe with the BEST sauce! This dish features thinly sliced beef with vibrant vegetables, all coated in a flavor-packed sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates an irresistible sauce that enhances the beef perfectly.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to fit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, it’s a satisfying meal without being heavy.
• Impressive Presentation: Colorful veggies and glossy sauce make for an eye-catching dish that’s great for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mongolian Beef experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready allows you to focus on creating a delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or wok: A large surface area ensures even cooking and allows for proper stir-frying of the beef and vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for thinly slicing the beef and julienning vegetables, which is crucial for both texture and presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without any mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your Mongolian Beef.

Ingredients

EASY Mongolian Beef recipe with the BEST sauce! Thinly sliced beef with vegetables in flavor-packed sauce ready in under 30 minutes!

For the Beef

• 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1/4 cup corn starch

For the Vegetables

• 1 carrot (peeled and julienned)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced into strips)
• 1/3 cup green onions (thickly sliced from 4 stems)

For the Sauce

• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp neutral oil (divided)
• 1 tsp fresh ginger (peeled and grated)
• 4 garlic cloves (peeled and grated)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tsp Sriracha (or added to taste)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

How to Make Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Place beef slices in a bowl, add cornstarch, and stir until completely coated. This step helps create a crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, water, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Sriracha. Stir well until mixed thoroughly. Set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. Heat 1 Tbsp oil with 1 Tbsp butter in a large skillet or wok over medium/high heat.
2. Once hot, add carrot and bell pepper; stir-fry until crisp-tender, stirring frequently (about 3-4 minutes). Remove vegetables to a separate plate.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

1. Increase heat to high; add remaining oil to skillet.
2. Once hot, add beef slices in batches if necessary. Sear for about 2 minutes per side until crispy. Avoid overcrowding to achieve even cooking.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

1. Return cooked vegetables to skillet along with green onions.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over everything; stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to medium/low; simmer until sauce thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).
4. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired before serving warm.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful Mongolian Beef dish!

How to Serve Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the Mongolian Beef over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Pair it with stir-fried noodles for an Asian-inspired feast. The combination of beef and noodles creates a satisfying texture and flavor contrast.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve Mongolian Beef in fresh lettuce leaves. This makes for an interactive meal where guests can create their own wraps.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Accompany the dish with additional stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and color. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work well to complement the beef.

As Part of a Platter

• Create a platter featuring Mongolian Beef alongside other Asian dishes like spring rolls or dumplings. This is perfect for sharing during gatherings or parties.

How to Perfect Mongolian Beef

Perfecting your Mongolian Beef requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Choose Quality Beef: Use flank steak or sirloin for tender results. The quality of the meat impacts the overall flavor and tenderness.

• Slice Against the Grain: Cut the beef against the grain to ensure it’s tender. This will make it easier to chew and enhance the eating experience.

• Coat Evenly with Cornstarch: Make sure each piece of beef is fully coated in cornstarch before cooking. This helps achieve that desirable crispy texture.

• Control Cooking Temperature: Start cooking on medium-high heat before transitioning to high heat. This ensures proper searing without overcooking.

• Let It Rest: Allow the cooked beef to rest briefly before serving. This helps retain the juices, keeping each bite flavorful and moist.

Best Side Dishes for Mongolian Beef

Complement your Mongolian Beef with these delightful side dishes that enhance your meal’s flavors and textures.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic choice that balances well with the savory sauce of Mongolian Beef.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic add crunch and freshness to your plate.
3. Fried Rice: Enhance your meal with fried rice mixed with vegetables and eggs for added protein.
4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of beef.
5. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables make for a delicious appetizer or side dish.
6. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in a light dressing provide an ideal pairing with warm beef.
7. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds great texture.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort while balancing out the richness of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can ensure your Mongolian Beef turns out perfectly every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using the wrong cut of beef: Selecting a tough cut can lead to chewy meat. Opt for flank steak, as it is tender and ideal for this recipe.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking beef too long can make it tough. Sear it quickly on high heat for just 2 minutes per side.
• Neglecting to coat the beef in cornstarch: Skipping this step can result in a less crispy texture. Always coat the beef evenly for a delightful crunch.
• Forgetting to prepare the sauce first: If you wait until after cooking, the timing may get off. Prepare your sauce ahead to keep everything moving smoothly.
• Crowding the pan: Overloading the skillet prevents proper searing. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mongolian Beef in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mongolian Beef

• Freeze Mongolian Beef in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place beef in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place beef in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Mongolian Beef that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use chicken instead of beef for Mongolian Beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter version of this dish while still enjoying the same great flavors.

What is the best way to slice flank steak?

Slice against the grain at a slight angle for tender pieces that are easy to chew. This technique helps break up muscle fibers.

How do I make Mongolian Beef spicier?

To increase the heat, add more Sriracha or include red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.

Is there a vegetarian version of Mongolian Beef?

Absolutely! Substitute flaked tofu or seitan for the beef and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a plant-based alternative.

How long does it take to make Mongolian Beef?

This recipe is quick! You can have delicious Mongolian Beef ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

This easy Mongolian Beef recipe is not only quick but also packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that everyone will love!