Mongolian Beef Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mongolian Beef is a flavorful stir-fry dish that combines tender slices of beef with a savory-sweet sauce, offering a delightful balance of flavors. It's quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you're craving a comforting meal. The dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Mongolian Beef Sauce

• 2 teaspoons ginger paste

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• Pinch of red pepper flakes

• ½ cup light brown sugar

• ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce

• ⅓ cup water

Beef

• 1 pound flank steak or skirt steak

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Garnish (Optional)

• 3 green onions (green parts only), cut into 1–2 inch pieces on the diagonal

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Serve With (Optional)

• 2–3 cups cooked rice

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare Mongolian Beef Sauce
   In a small bowl, whisk together the ginger, garlic, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, soy sauce, and water. Set aside.

2. Prepare Beef
   Cut the steak into ¼ inch or thinner slices against the grain. Add the cornstarch to a large Ziploc bag, then add the steak slices. Shake to coat and let sit in the bag for a few minutes.

3. Cook Beef
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add half of the beef in a single layer and cook for 45 seconds. Flip and cook for an additional 45 seconds. Remove and set aside. Repeat with the remaining beef.

4. Combine
   In the same skillet, add the prepared sauce and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and add the beef back into the skillet, tossing to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Garnish and Serve
   Sprinkle the green onions and sesame seeds over the top and toss once more. Serve hot over rice if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute beef with chicken, pork, or tofu for a different twist.

• Spice Level: Increase red pepper flakes or add chili paste for added heat.

• Vegetables: Incorporate stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.

• Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your sweetness preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Store the cooked beef (without the sauce) in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave. It's recommended to prepare the sauce fresh when reheating for optimal flavor.

• Make-Ahead: Slice and coat the beef in cornstarch in advance, then store it in a Ziploc bag in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, just sear the beef and toss it in the sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.

• Reheat: To reheat, place the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out. Serve the sauce as is, either warmed or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, while flank steak is ideal for this recipe, you can also use skirt steak, sirloin, or even ribeye. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for the best texture.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of chili paste to the sauce. You can also try adding fresh sliced chili peppers when cooking the beef for a bit of extra spice.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to toss in some stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added flavor and texture. Just cook them separately and toss them in with the beef at the end.

Can I use a different oil for cooking?

Absolutely. While the recipe calls for extra virgin olive oil, you can use other oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil, depending on your preference.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the beef and sauce, then combine and serve over rice.

How do I slice the beef thinly?

To slice the beef thinly, place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm it up. This makes it easier to achieve those perfectly thin cuts.

Can I use frozen beef?

It's best to use fresh beef for this recipe. If using frozen beef, ensure it's fully thawed and patted dry before slicing and coating with cornstarch.

What can I serve with Mongolian Beef?

Mongolian Beef pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Conclusion

Mongolian Beef is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the bold flavors of your favorite takeout right into your kitchen. With tender beef slices coated in a savory-sweet sauce, it's a meal that's sure to satisfy. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.