If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, let me introduce you to my favorite Mongolian beef recipe! It’s that perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet that just makes my taste buds dance. I remember the first time I tried it at a little restaurant downtown—oh wow, the flavors were a revelation! I knew I had to recreate it at home. This dish is not only quick to whip up but also delivers that satisfying umami punch that keeps you coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this Mongolian beef, it’ll become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect served over a bed of fluffy rice. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish together!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Mongolian beef. Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth experience!
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Using fresh ingredients is key to bringing out the best flavors, so don’t skimp on quality! And remember, you can adjust the amount of sugar if you prefer it a bit sweeter or less so. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Mongolian Beef Recipe
Now, let’s get right into the kitchen and whip up this delicious Mongolian beef! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring a restaurant-quality dish in no time.
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
Start by marinating your flank steak in soy sauce for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial because it infuses the meat with that savory flavor we crave. Plus, it helps to tenderize the steak, making every bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Step 2: Coat the Steak
Next, toss the marinated steak in cornstarch until it’s fully coated. This isn’t just for show! The cornstarch creates a lovely crispy exterior when cooked, giving your dish that satisfying texture that contrasts perfectly with the tender meat.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Now, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when it shimmers and gives off a slight haze. Don’t rush this step—getting the oil hot enough is key to achieving that beautiful sear on the steak!
Step 4: Cook the Steak
Carefully add the coated steak to the pan and let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Keep an eye on it; you want to achieve that perfect sear without overcooking. The edges should be golden, and the steak will smell amazing!
Step 5: Add Aromatics
Once the steak is browned, toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for just 1 minute. This step enhances the dish’s flavor profile, releasing those aromatic oils that make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and water until combined, then add it to the pan with the steak. This sugary goodness will create that sweet-savory sauce that’s the hallmark of a good Mongolian beef dish.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. You’re looking for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon—just thick enough to cling to that delicious beef!
Step 8: Finish with Green Onions
Finally, toss in the chopped green onions and cook for another minute. They add a lovely freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce, making each bite even more delightful.
Step 9: Serve
Now it’s time to serve! Dish up your Mongolian beef hot over a steaming bowl of rice. The rice is perfect for soaking up that rich sauce. Enjoy every bite, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef Recipe
- Quick and easy: You can whip this dish up in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Incredible flavor: The sweet and savory balance is truly addictive, with layers of taste that will impress your family and friends.
- Satisfying texture: The crispy exterior from the cornstarch coating perfectly complements the tender, juicy steak.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
- Perfect over rice: It pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, soaking up all that delicious sauce for a complete meal.
- Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry!
Tips for Success
To truly master this Mongolian beef recipe, here are some handy tips to elevate your dish! First, make sure to slice the flank steak against the grain; this ensures the meat is tender and easy to chew. Also, don’t skip the marinating step—15 minutes is all it takes to infuse that delicious soy sauce flavor. When coating the steak with cornstarch, ensure it’s evenly coated for that perfect crispy texture. If you want to add a bit of heat, throw in some red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger. Finally, for a bit of freshness, you can toss in some additional veggies like bell peppers or snap peas right before adding the sauce. Trust me, these little tweaks will make your Mongolian beef even more irresistible!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftovers of this delicious Mongolian beef (which is rare in my house!), storing them properly is key to enjoying them later. Let the dish cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember, the longer it sits, the softer that crispy texture will become, so try to eat it sooner rather than later!
When you’re ready to reheat, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Just add a splash of water or a bit of oil to help revive the sauce and prevent sticking. Stir it gently until heated through—this way, you’ll keep that lovely flavor and get a bit of that texture back. Microwaving is an option too, but be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with rubbery beef. Enjoy your leftovers as if they were freshly made!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for one serving of this delightful Mongolian beef recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This dish packs a flavorful punch while still being a satisfying option for your dinner table. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing you’re treating yourself right!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Mongolian beef recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is my go-to for its tenderness, you can use sirloin or even ribeye if you prefer. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the best results.
Is it possible to make Mongolian beef in advance?
Sure thing! You can prepare the Mongolian beef ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving, and it’ll still taste fantastic!
What can I serve with Mongolian beef?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, but you can also serve it with noodles or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal. If you want to get fancy, a side of stir-fried bok choy or broccoli adds a nice touch!
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! If you’re a fan of heat, try adding some red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chili peppers while cooking the steak. You can also serve it with a side of chili sauce for an extra kick!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your Mongolian beef fresh, let it cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just follow the reheating tips I shared earlier to enjoy it again!
For more information on the health benefits of beef, you can check out this article.
For a delicious side dish, consider making creamy garlic parmesan pasta to complement your Mongolian beef!
If you’re interested in exploring more beef recipes, visit this page for some great ideas!
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Mongolian Beef Recipe: 9 Steps to Amazing Flavor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic Mongolian beef recipe that is savory and slightly sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions
- Marinate the steak in soy sauce for 15 minutes.
- Toss the steak in cornstarch until coated.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak and cook until browned.
- Add garlic and ginger, stir for 1 minute.
- Mix brown sugar and water in a bowl, then add to the pan.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add green onions and cook for another minute.
- Serve hot over rice.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Adjust sugar for desired sweetness.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mongolian beef recipe
