Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef is a dish that combines tender, crispy strips of beef with a savory and sweet sauce. This beloved stir-fry is easy to make at home and impresses with its bold flavors.

There’s something irresistible about a plate of tender, saucy Mongolian Beef—it’s one of those dishes that always feels like a treat! I remember the first time I tried Mongolian Beef at a little Chinese restaurant, and I was instantly hooked by its rich, savory-sweet flavor and the perfect balance of garlic and ginger.

The dish typically uses flank steak, cooked to perfection with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and brown sugar, creating an irresistible glaze that coats every bite.

Originating as a Chinese-American creation, Mongolian Beef is known for its simplicity and taste. The secret to its deliciousness lies in the perfect blend of ingredients that create a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors.

After a bit of experimenting in my own kitchen, I’ve created a version that hits all the right notes and is surprisingly easy to make at home. This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have, making it a great go-to for busy nights or whenever you’re craving takeout but want to keep things homemade.

This Mongolian Beef recipe is full of juicy, caramelized beef coated in a velvety sauce with a hint of spice, and it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fresh veggies. I hope you love it as much as my family and I do—let’s dive in and make it together!

Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef is a dish that stands out with its irresistible savory flavor. With rich soy sauce, garlic, and ginger notes, it creates a delightful taste that many enjoy in Asian recipes. The sweet and sticky sauce is a favorite element, perfectly complementing the beef.

Ease of preparation is another key reason to love it. This easy Mongolian beef recipe uses simple ingredients like flank steak, soy sauce, and brown sugar. It is both quick and straightforward, making it a great choice for those busy nights.

The texture of the beef is tender and flavorful. By cutting the beef thinly and evenly, it cooks quickly, resulting in a pleasant texture that many find appealing. The beef becomes crispy when cooked right, adding a satisfying bite.

Many appreciate its versatility. This dish can be served with rice or noodles, allowing it to fit any meal preference. This adaptability makes it a fantastic choice for different occasions or dietary needs.

Mongolian Beef is not just tasty; it’s customizable too. For those who prefer a bit of spice, adding a few chili flakes can enhance the flavor. Substituting chicken instead of beef can create a delicious Mongolian chicken variation.

Mongolian Beef Ingredients

Mongolian Beef combines savory and sweet with its flavorful mix of components. Key ingredients include soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar, adding depth and richness. Optional additions like red pepper flakes and ginger allow for personal flavor adjustments.

Main Ingredients

The main components of Mongolian Beef focus on bold flavors and tender textures. Flank steak is a popular choice due to its tenderness and ability to absorb marinades. Soy sauce provides a savory base, with either standard or low-sodium options. Brown sugar contributes sweetness, balancing the sauce.

To thicken the sauce, cornstarch is commonly used. Garlic and fresh ginger add aromatic qualities. Vegetable oil is typically used for cooking, though other neutral oils like peanut oil can also be chosen. Green onions or scallions are included for freshness, adding a mild onion flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

For those who enjoy a spicy kick, red pepper flakes or sriracha can be added to heighten the heat. Using hoisin sauce offers a richer texture and deeper sweetness. Oyster sauce and shaoxing wine or dry sherry can further enhance the umami profile.

For extra aroma, minced ginger or a garlic and ginger sauce might be used. Lighter options like tamari replace soy sauce for a gluten-free dish. Adding a pinch of black pepper and a touch of baking soda helps to tenderize the beef, resulting in a more consistent texture.

How to Make Mongolian Beef Step-By-Step

Mongolian Beef is a favorite dish known for its crispy beef and rich sauce. To make it, start by preparing quality beef, such as flank steak. Slice it thinly against the grain. Marinate the beef in soy sauce, cornstarch, and a bit of sugar. This helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef (flank steak or similar)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef: Coat the beef strips in cornstarch. Let them sit while you prepare other ingredients.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add vegetable oil, swirling to coat. Fry the beef in batches until crispy. Avoid crowding the pan.
3. Stir Fry Aromatics: In the same wok, add a bit more oil if needed. Stir fry the garlic and ginger briefly, just until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Pour into the wok and simmer briefly.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the crispy beef to the wok. Stir well to coat. Serve immediately, optionally with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. This balances the flavors and adds color.

Mongolian Beef Tips & Tricks

Choose the Right Cut:
Flank steak is a popular choice for Mongolian beef due to its tenderness. When slicing, it’s important to cut against the grain for the best texture. Aim for pieces about 1/4 inch thick.

Prepping the Beef:
Marinating the beef enhances flavor. A basic marinade might include soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Let the beef sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to absorb flavors.

Cooking Technique:
Use a hot pan to cook the beef quickly. This ensures that it gets that nice sear without overcooking, keeping it tender inside.

Perfecting the Sauce:
The sauce often combines soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sugar for a sweet and savory balance. Finish with cornstarch to thicken and coat the beef beautifully.

Vegetable Additions:
While traditional recipes focus on beef and sauce, adding vegetables like green onions or bell peppers can add color and texture. These should be added towards the end to maintain crispness.

Final Touches:
Serve Mongolian beef with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the rich sauce. It’s an easy way to complete the dish and make it a hearty meal.

How to Customize Mongolian Beef for Different Diets

Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit various dietary needs. The classic version features beef with a sweet and savory sauce, but it’s easy to make changes to accommodate different diets.

For a low-carb option, serve Mongolian Beef with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. This switch reduces carb intake while offering a similar texture. Cauliflower rice is easy to make by grating cauliflower.

For a vegetarian twist, swap beef with tofu. Cube the tofu and lightly fry until it’s crispy. It absorbs the flavors of the sauce well, making it a satisfying substitute.

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce or replace half the soy sauce with water or vinegar. This simple change can help those who need to monitor their salt intake.

Here’s an overview of possible customizations:

Diet	Modification
Low-carb	Substitute rice with cauliflower rice
Vegetarian	Replace beef with tofu
Low-sodium	Use low-sodium soy sauce

By using these modifications, Mongolian Beef becomes accessible to more people with varying dietary preferences. It’s all about making simple swaps while keeping the flavors you love.

Mongolian Beef Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Storing Mongolian Beef properly helps maintain its flavor and texture. When freezing, it’s essential to package it correctly to preserve freshness. Following these guidelines ensures your meal remains delicious.

How to Store Leftovers

Keep Mongolian Beef in an airtight container to lock in moisture. It’s best stored in the fridge within two hours of cooking. Separate the beef from any sauces, if possible, to prevent the meat from becoming soggy.

Label containers with the date you stored them. This can help remind you to eat or freeze the leftovers before they go bad. Stir-fried vegetables or rice served with the beef should also be stored separately to maintain their texture and taste.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze Mongolian Beef, let it cool completely. Portion the beef into freezer-safe bags or containers. Removing excess air helps prevent freezer burn. Lay bags flat in the freezer for efficient storage.

When ready to eat, thaw the beef overnight in the fridge. For faster thawing, use the microwave’s defrost setting. Reheat until steaming hot on the stove. Avoid freezing rice or vegetables with the beef, as they may not retain their quality through freezing and thawing.

How Long Mongolian Beef Stays Fresh

Mongolian Beef stays fresh in the fridge for three to four days. It’s important to regularly check the leftovers for any signs of spoilage such as an off smell or unusual texture.

In the freezer, Mongolian Beef can last up to three months without losing flavor. Proper storage techniques, like using sealed bags or containers, extend its shelf life. Before eating, ensure the beef is thoroughly heated to a safe temperature to enjoy a healthy and tasty meal.

Pairing Ideas for Mongolian Beef

Rice is a classic companion for Mongolian beef. Steamed rice is simple and lets the flavors of the beef shine. Fried rice adds more texture and taste, with its vegetables and egg.

For those who prefer pasta, noodles make an excellent choice. Garlic noodles enhance the dish with their rich taste. Chow mein and rice vermicelli also provide delightful pairings.

Vegetables add color and nutrition to the meal. Stir-fried green beans or spicy steamed broccoli bring a fresh crunch. Try a cucumber salad or Asian slaw to add a refreshing element.

Bread lovers can enjoy rosemary bread, known for its soft, fluffy core and crispy exterior. It’s a wonderful option alongside Mongolian beef.

Soups offer a soothing start. Egg drop soup and hot and sour soup are both flavorful choices. They pair seamlessly as appetizers before the main dish.

For a variety of tastes at the table, serve Mongolian beef alongside dishes like sesame chicken, orange beef, or beef and broccoli. General Tso’s chicken also offers a great contrast with its unique sauce.

Additional options such as spring rolls or fried wontons can complete the meal with extra crunch and texture. Whether traditional or innovative, these sides enhance the dining experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mongolian Beef is a popular dish known for its tender beef and savory sauce. This section will cover ingredients needed, simple preparation steps, key sauce components, recipe distinctions, and health aspects.

What ingredients are needed for a traditional Mongolian beef dish?

A traditional Mongolian beef dish typically includes slices of tender beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients are combined to create a flavorful and aromatic dish.

How can I make a simple Mongolian beef at home?

To make a simple Mongolian beef at home, thinly slice beef and cook it in a hot skillet with oil until browned. Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, and water to create the sauce and pour it over the beef. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.

What are the key components of the sauce used in Mongolian beef?

The key components of the sauce include soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Ginger and garlic are often added for extra flavor. The sauce is typically simmered until it becomes thick and glossy.

What makes the best Mongolian beef recipe stand out?

The best Mongolian beef recipes stand out through a balance of flavors, with the right combination of sweet and savory. Tender beef and a thick, well-seasoned sauce are essential. Cooking the beef quickly at high heat helps maintain its texture.

How does Mongolian beef differ from Szechuan beef in taste and preparation?

Mongolian beef is known for its sweet and savory taste, while Szechuan beef has a spicier profile due to the inclusion of chili peppers and Szechuan peppercorns. Mongolian beef is often flash-cooked in a thick sauce, while Szechuan beef may involve stir-frying with vegetables.

Are there any health considerations when consuming Mongolian beef?

Mongolian beef can be high in sodium and sugar. This is due to the soy sauce and brown sugar in the sauce. Using leaner cuts of beef and reducing the sauce quantity can help make the dish healthier. You should also be mindful of portion size.