Mongolian Beef

EASY Mongolian Beef recipe with the BEST sauce! Thinly sliced beef with vegetables in a flavor-packed sauce ready in under 30 minutes! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a homemade Asian-inspired meal. With a savory sauce and tender beef, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Mongolian Beef recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor-Packed Sauce: The combination of brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce creates a rich and delicious sauce that enhances every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and appealing presentation, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need for this Mongolian Beef recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: A wide surface allows for even cooking of beef and vegetables while ensuring everything gets that perfect sear.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the sauce and coating the beef evenly with cornstarch.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the flank steak and vegetables quick and efficient.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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

Fresh Ingredients

• 1 carrot (peeled and julienned)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced into strips)
• 1 lb flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)

Cooking Essentials

• 1 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp neutral oil (divided)
• 1/4 cup corn starch
• 1/3 cup green onions (thickly sliced from 4 stems)
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Flavor Enhancers

• 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)

How to Make Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Coat the Beef

Place beef slices in a bowl, add cornstarch, and stir to completely coat. This step helps create that desirable crispy texture when cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, combine the ingredients for the sauce—brown sugar, water, soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and Sriracha. Stir until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 Tbsp oil along with 1 Tbsp butter over medium/high heat. Once hot, add the carrot and red bell pepper. Stir-fry until crisp-tender or to your desired tenderness. Remove the vegetables from the skillet onto a separate plate.

Step 4: Sear the Beef

Increase heat to high. Add another tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet. Once hot again, add the coated beef slices in batches if needed, searing for about 2 minutes on each side until crispy. Add more oil if necessary but avoid crowding the pan.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked vegetables back into the skillet along with green onions. Pour in the prepared sauce, stirring well to combine. Lower heat to medium/low and simmer until the sauce thickens—about 3 minutes. If desired, garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Mongolian Beef!

How to Serve Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or jasmine rice makes a perfect base for Mongolian Beef, soaking up the delicious sauce.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Serve your Mongolian Beef over cooked lo mein or rice noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A light green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the beef. Consider using arugula or spinach with a light vinaigrette.

As Lettuce Wraps

• For a fun twist, serve Mongolian Beef wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and freshness to each bite.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling sesame seeds on top not only enhances the presentation but also adds a nutty flavor that complements the dish.

How to Perfect Mongolian Beef

Perfecting your Mongolian Beef is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Choose the Right Cut: Opt for flank steak or sirloin for tender results. Thinly slicing against the grain helps maintain tenderness.
• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the beef to marinate in soy sauce and ginger can deepen the flavor profile.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the beef gets a nice sear while keeping it juicy inside.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary to prevent steaming. This allows for better browning.
• Adjust Thickness of Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh ginger and garlic for vibrant flavors that enhance your dish significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Mongolian Beef

When serving Mongolian Beef, complement it with some delicious side dishes that balance its rich flavors. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Fried Rice: A classic Asian side dish made with leftover rice, vegetables, and soy sauce; it pairs perfectly with Mongolian Beef.
2. Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli seasoned with garlic offers a nutritious and tasty contrast to beef.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots stir-fried in sesame oil adds crunch and flavor.
4. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar provides a cool contrast to the warm beef dish.
5. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables offer texture and flavor; they make an excellent appetizer alongside the main course.
6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup can serve as a soothing starter before indulging in your main meal.
7. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls packed with veggies offer a light and flavorful addition to your table.
8. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad tossed with greens and citrus dressing enhances the overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you create the perfect Mongolian Beef every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking beef for too long can make it tough. Aim for a quick sear on high heat to keep it tender.
• Not Coating the Beef Properly: Failing to coat the beef with cornstarch can lead to a less crispy texture. Make sure every piece is evenly coated before cooking.
• Ignoring the Sauce Balance: If the sauce is too sweet or salty, it can overpower the dish. Adjust the sugar and soy sauce to your taste preference for a balanced flavor.
• Crowding the Pan: Adding too much beef at once can lower the pan’s temperature, resulting in steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using dried herbs or pre-packaged sauces may lack freshness. Fresh garlic and ginger enhance flavor significantly.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best quality.

Freezing Mongolian Beef

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring gently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Mongolian Beef:

Can I use chicken instead of beef in Mongolian Beef?

You can definitely substitute chicken! Just adjust the cooking time as chicken may cook faster than beef.

What vegetables go well with Mongolian Beef?

Carrots and bell peppers are great choices, but you can also add broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy for extra nutrition.

How do I make Mongolian Beef spicier?

Add more Sriracha to your sauce or include sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking for an extra kick!

Is Mongolian Beef suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Mongolian Beef stores well and can be easily reheated, making it a great option for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This easy Mongolian Beef recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!

 

Print