Mongolian Beef
Mongolian Beef Recipe: A Delicious Asian Inspired Dish
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal, Mongolian Beef is a fantastic choice. This dish combines tender flank steak with a savory sauce that balances sweetness and umami. Often enjoyed over rice or noodles, Mongolian Beef is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several compelling reasons to try your hand at Mongolian Beef. Firstly, it’s a delicious way to experience the rich flavors of Asian cuisine right at home. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats the beef perfectly. Secondly, this recipe is versatile! Whether you serve it with rice or noodles, you can customize it with different vegetables like scallions or bell peppers to suit your taste. Plus, it takes under 30 minutes to prepare!
How to Make Mongolian Beef
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create your own Mongolian Beef at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of flank steak
- 1/4 cup of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- Chili (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup of scallions or bell peppers, sliced
- Rice or noodles (for serving)
Directions
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and coat it with cornstarch.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and stir-fry the coated flank steak until it’s cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and optional chili.
- Add the sauce to the pan with the steak and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in the scallions or bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional minute until they are just tender.
- Serve hot over warm rice or noodles, and enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Mongolian Beef
Mongolian Beef is best served hot. You can plate it atop fluffy white rice or toss it with your favorite noodles. For added color and nutrition, consider garnishing your dish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
How to Store Mongolian Beef
To keep your leftover Mongolian Beef fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the beef for up to three months. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Tips to Make Mongolian Beef
- Marinating: For extra flavor, let the sliced beef marinate in the soy sauce mixture for 15-30 minutes before frying.
- Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce during the last minute of cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition.
Variations
- Spicy Mongolian Beef: Add more chili or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the flank steak with tofu or seitan for a plant-based version.
- Different Proteins: Use chicken, pork, or shrimp based on your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While flank steak is often recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can use sirloin or ribeye as well.
2. Is Mongolian Beef spicy?
It can be! The recipe includes an optional chili to add spice. Feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and slice the beef ahead of time. Simply combine everything when you’re ready to cook.
Mongolian Beef is an enticing dish that dazzles the palate with every bite. Try making it today for a meal that’s sure to impress!
Mongolian Beef
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak Thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup scallions or bell peppers, sliced
- to taste chili (optional, for extra heat)
- for serving Rice or noodles
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain and coat it with cornstarch.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and optional chili.
Cooking
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and stir-fry the coated flank steak until it’s cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sauce to the pan with the steak and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in the scallions or bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional minute until they are just tender.
Serving
- Serve hot over warm rice or noodles, and enjoy your meal!
