Name: Mongolian Beef Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak (thinly sliced across the grain); 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying); 2 green onions (thinly sliced); 1/2 cup soy sauce (the base of the sauce); 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (adds sweetness); 1/2 cup water (to create the sauce); 1 tablespoon minced garlic (for flavor); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced); 2 teaspoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil for flavor); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dish that ticks all the boxes for flavor and ease, this Mongolian Beef Recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful stir-fry that combines tender beef with a sweet and savory sauce, creating a meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Serve it over rice or noodles, and you have a delicious dinner that everyone will love!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

One of the best things about this Mongolian Beef Recipe is its universal appeal. The rich, savory sauce paired with tender strips of beef is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. It’s sweet, slightly salty, and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic option for family dinners, potlucks, or even a casual get-together with friends. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of others.

What We’re Using

To create this amazing dish, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound flank steak – thinly sliced across the grain for maximum tenderness
1/4 cup cornstarch – for coating the beef and creating a nice, crispy texture
1 cup vegetable oil – for frying the beef, giving it a crispy exterior
2 green onions – thinly sliced on the diagonal into 1-inch pieces for freshness and color
1/2 cup soy sauce – the base of our flavorful sauce
1/2 cup dark brown sugar – adds sweetness and depth to the sauce
1/2 cup water – helps to create the sauce
1 tablespoon minced garlic – for a fragrant kick
1 tablespoon fresh ginger – minced to add warmth and spice
2 teaspoons sesame oil or vegetable oil – for an extra layer of flavor
1 teaspoon sesame seeds – for garnish

Prep & Cook Tools

Before we dive into the cooking process, here’s a list of tools you will need:

Chef’s knife – for slicing the flank steak
Cutting board – to ensure safe and accurate slicing
Large skillet or wok – for frying and stir-frying the beef
Mixing bowl – for coating the beef with cornstarch
Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurement
Spatula or tongs – to stir and turn the beef while it cooks

Stepwise Method: Mongolian Beef Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak thinly across the grain. This step is crucial for ensuring tenderness. Once sliced, place the beef in a mixing bowl and sprinkle the cornstarch over it. Toss the beef until it’s well-coated. Allow it to sit for about 15 minutes; this helps to enhance the texture.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the beef quickly, creating that delicious crispy exterior.

Step 3: Fry the Beef

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the beef to the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess oil.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, remove excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the soy sauce, dark brown sugar, and water. Stir the mixture well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the beef to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well-coated. Add the sliced green onions and cook for an additional minute, allowing the onions to soften slightly.

Step 6: Final Touches

Drizzle the sesame oil over the beef and give it one last toss. If you like, sprinkle with sesame seeds for that final touch of flavor and presentation.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you need to make this Mongolian Beef Recipe dairy-free or gluten-free, consider the following options:

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.
Ensure that the vegetable oil you choose is gluten-free.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

When making this Mongolian Beef Recipe, here are some common mistakes to sidestep:

Not slicing the beef against the grain: This can lead to chewy and tough meat. Always pay attention to the grain of the meat.
Overcrowding the pan: Fry the beef in batches to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Skipping the resting time after coating the beef: Allowing the cornstarch to sit on the meat enhances the crispiness.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to meal prep or have leftovers, this Mongolian Beef Recipe is freezer-friendly! Here’s how:

Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Your Top Questions

Can I use another cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is traditional, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for the best results.

What should I serve with Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even noodles. Add a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal!

How spicy is this recipe?

This Mongolian Beef Recipe is not spicy at all, but if you like heat, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or sliced chilies to the sauce!

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce in advance, but it’s best to fry the beef just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.

Let’s Eat

Now that you’ve mastered this Mongolian Beef Recipe, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table and dig in! The delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the crispy beef and fresh green onions, will surely make for a meal that everyone will rave about. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite!