If you’re craving a savory, slightly sweet dish with tender beef slices coated in a rich sauce, this Authentic Mongolian Beef Recipe is the perfect choice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. With its bold flavors and minimal prep time, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite across households. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible recipe step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Flavorful: A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef:
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup water
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Optional Additions:
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup green onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup broccoli florets or snap peas
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the flank steak into thin strips. For extra tenderness, ensure you cut against the grain. Place the slices in a bowl and toss with cornstarch. Let the beef rest for about 10 minutes to allow the cornstarch to adhere.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced ginger, garlic, water, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Cook the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until crispy and browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Combine Everything
Using the same skillet, pour in the sauce mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken. Add the cooked beef back to the skillet, stirring to coat every piece in the sauce.
5. Add Optional Vegetables
If desired, toss in green onions or other vegetables and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef
- Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak works best for this recipe, but you can also use skirt steak or sirloin.
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices ensure the beef cooks quickly and remains tender.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: It’s essential for creating that signature crispy texture.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Mongolian Beef pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The sauce soaks into the rice, making every bite delightful.
- Fried Rice: For an extra flavorful meal, serve alongside fried rice.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Add a serving of mixed veggies for a wholesome dinner.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Mongolian Beef: Add extra red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha for a fiery kick.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-Ahead:
You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Slice the beef and keep it refrigerated until ready to cook.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips:
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh works well as a substitute.
2. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, chili paste, or Szechuan peppercorns for an extra kick.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the beef for tofu or seitan. Pan-fry the tofu until crispy, then follow the recipe as written.
4. Why is my beef not crispy?
Ensure the beef is thinly sliced and not overcrowded in the pan. Overcrowding steams the beef instead of frying it.
5. What vegetables work best in this recipe?
Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots complement the dish perfectly.
Why Make Mongolian Beef at Home?
Homemade Mongolian Beef offers the same restaurant-quality flavors without the extra cost or unhealthy additives. Plus, you can customize it to your liking, making it a versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Enjoy This Classic Dish Tonight!
This Authentic Mongolian Beef Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.