Mongolian Beef

EASY Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. This recipe features thinly sliced beef paired with crisp vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this Mongolian Beef is sure to impress your family and friends with its bold taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed Sauce: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic creates an irresistible sauce that perfectly complements the tender beef and fresh veggies.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week. It reheats beautifully!
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the glossy sauce make this dish visually appealing, making it perfect for entertaining guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Mongolian Beef recipe, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for stir-frying, it allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding of ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients like the beef with cornstarch or preparing the sauce without mess.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise slicing of beef and vegetables, which is crucial for even cooking.

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.
2. Add cornstarch to coat all pieces evenly.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, water, ginger, garlic, and Sriracha.
2. Stir until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 Tbsp oil with 1 Tbsp butter over medium/high heat.
2. Once hot, add carrot and red bell pepper.
3. Stir-fry until crisp-tender; remove vegetables from skillet.

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.
3. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until crispy; avoid crowding.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Enjoy your homemade Mongolian Beef!

How to Serve Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer it over rice or paired with crispy vegetables, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve Mongolian Beef over fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite delicious.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and sauce with your favorite noodles for a comforting twist. Choose from egg noodles, udon, or even rice noodles for different textures.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve Mongolian Beef in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes for an interactive meal.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair your Mongolian Beef with stir-fried vegetables like broccoli and snap peas. This adds color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the dish.

As a Filling for Tacos

• Use Mongolian Beef as a filling for soft tortillas. Top with avocado slices and cilantro for a fusion twist that everyone will love.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• Finish your dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This not only adds flavor but also gives your presentation an attractive touch.

How to Perfect Mongolian Beef

Perfecting Mongolian Beef involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results every time.

• Use tender cuts of beef: Flank steak is ideal because it cooks quickly and remains tender when sliced against the grain.
• Coat the beef evenly: Make sure each slice is fully coated in cornstarch before cooking. This helps create that desirable crispy texture.
• Heat your skillet properly: A hot skillet is essential for searing the beef correctly. It locks in juices and creates a nice crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Adjust the sauce to taste: Feel free to modify the sweetness or spice level by adjusting brown sugar or Sriracha according to your preference.
• Serve immediately: For best flavor and texture, serve Mongolian Beef right after cooking while it’s hot and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Mongolian Beef

Complementing your Mongolian Beef with the right side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant choice that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Mongolian Beef.
2. Garlic Green Beans: These sautéed green beans add crunch and a hint of garlic that balances out the dish nicely.
3. Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in vinegar for a refreshing contrast.
4. Fried Rice: Stir-fried rice mixed with vegetables makes for a hearty side that complements the beef well.
5. Asian Slaw: A crunchy blend of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides texture and brightness alongside the meat.
6. Roasted Broccoli: Crispy roasted broccoli drizzled with soy sauce brings an earthy flavor that works well with Mongolian dishes.
7. Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of egg drop soup serves as a comforting starter before diving into your main course.
8. Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles tossed in soy sauce offer an additional layer of flavor while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mongolian Beef, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can elevate your dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong cut of beef: Choosing a tough cut instead of flank steak can lead to chewy meat. Opt for flank or sirloin for tender results.
• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the beef in cornstarch can prevent it from achieving that desired crispy texture. Always coat the beef evenly before cooking.
• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding reduces heat and steams the beef instead of searing it. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
• Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing through the cooking process may result in a watery sauce. Allow it to simmer until it reaches your preferred thickness.
• Neglecting vegetable freshness: Using wilted or overcooked vegetables can diminish flavor and texture. Choose fresh, vibrant vegetables and stir-fry them just until crisp-tender.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mongolian Beef in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mongolian Beef

• Place cooled Mongolian Beef in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help steam and prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mongolian Beef that may help you out.

What is Mongolian Beef?

Mongolian Beef is a delicious dish featuring thinly sliced beef stir-fried with vegetables and coated in a sweet and savory sauce.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can easily substitute chicken for beef if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make a vegetarian version of Mongolian Beef?

For a vegetarian option, swap out beef for tofu or tempeh while keeping the same flavorful sauce and vegetables.

What is the best way to serve Mongolian Beef?

Mongolian Beef pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside fresh salads for added crunch.

How do I store leftover Mongolian Beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This easy Mongolian Beef recipe offers a quick and flavorful meal option that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, whether by swapping proteins or adding more veggies. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delicious flavors tonight!