Irresistible Mongolian Beef: A Flavorful Family Favorite

Mongolian Beef is like a warm hug for your taste buds, combining tender beef with a sweet and savory sauce that dances on your palate. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table like moths to a flame. With each bite, the rich flavors swirl together, creating an experience that’s hard to resist.

This dish holds a special place in my heart; it’s what my family craved during chilly evenings after a long day. Picture us huddled over steaming bowls, chuckling and sharing stories as we devoured this delectable meal. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive gathering, Mongolian Beef always brings joy and satisfaction.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The ease of preparation means you can whip this up even on busy weeknights
  • The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that will leave everyone asking for seconds
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, turning any plate into a feast for the eyes
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even by itself!

Ingredients for Mongolian Beef

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Beef Flank Steak: Choose well-marbled flank steak for tenderness; slice it against the grain for maximum flavor.

  • Green Onions: Fresh green onions add crunch and color; chop them finely for an aromatic garnish.

  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce provides that classic umami flavor without overwhelming saltiness.

  • Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce perfectly.

  • Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness; don’t skimp on it!

For the Sauce:

  • Sesame Oil: Just a touch of sesame oil enhances that irresistible nutty flavor in your sauce.

  • Cornstarch: This helps thicken your sauce and gives it that glossy finish that looks so appealing.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Mongolian Beef

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Slice the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak into thin strips. Aim for about half an inch thick so they cook evenly. If you freeze the steak for about 30 minutes beforehand, it makes slicing much easier.

Step 2: Marinate

In a bowl, combine soy sauce and cornstarch with your sliced beef. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes – this step ensures every piece absorbs those fantastic flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Your Sauce

In another bowl, mix together brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Stir until blended well. This mixture will bring all those sweet and savory vibes right into your beef!

Step 4: Heat Up That Wok

Heat up some oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. When it’s shimmering like diamonds (but not literally), toss in your marinated beef strips. Stir-fry until browned but not fully cooked – about three to four minutes should do it.

Step 5: Add Sauce & Onions

Once the beef is nearly cooked through, pour in your prepared sauce along with chopped green onions. Stir everything together until the sauce thickens slightly and coats every piece of beef beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your Mongolian Beef onto plates or bowls over rice or noodles if you like. Drizzle with any remaining sauce left in the pan for that extra touch of yumminess!

Now sit back and watch as people flock to the table like bees to honeyβ€”this Mongolian Beef is sure to be a hit!

You Must Know

  • This delightful Mongolian Beef recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also simplifies meal prep
  • With vibrant flavors and colors, it’s a showstopper on any dinner table
  • Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips and techniques recipe.

To achieve the best results, start by marinating the beef while preparing your vegetables. Sear the beef first to lock in those juices, then stir-fry the veggies before combining everything with the savory sauce for a perfect finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this Mongolian Beef dish by swapping in chicken or tofu for a different protein. Add some heat with chili flakes or toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the most tender beef, slice against the grain
  • Marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor
  • Keep your pan hot to achieve that perfect sear and avoid steaming the meat

I remember the first time I made Mongolian Beef for my friends; their eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning! It’s incredible how one dish can turn a casual gathering into a memorable feast filled with laughter and second helpings.

FAQs :

What is Mongolian Beef?

Mongolian Beef is a popular dish that features tender strips of beef cooked in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Often served with green onions and sometimes paired with rice or noodles, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors. While it originates from Chinese-American cuisine rather than Mongolia, it has gained immense popularity worldwide for its quick preparation and rich taste.

How do I make Mongolian Beef at home?

To make Mongolian Beef at home, start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. Marinate it briefly in soy sauce and cornstarch for added tenderness. Stir-fry the beef over high heat until browned, then add ginger, garlic, and green onions. Pour in the sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and water to create that signature glaze. Serve it hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of meat for Mongolian Beef?

Yes, you can definitely use other meats instead of beef for Mongolian recipes. Chicken or pork works well as alternatives; just ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly since different meats have varying cooking requirements. The same marinade and sauce can be applied to these meats to achieve similar flavors while providing a unique twist on the traditional dish.

Is Mongolian Beef spicy?

Mongolian Beef is not typically known for being spicy but focuses more on sweet and savory flavors. The sauce primarily consists of soy sauce and brown sugar, which creates a pleasant sweetness complemented by the umami of soy. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can easily add red pepper flakes or slices of fresh chili to the stir-fry for an extra kick without overwhelming the dish’s original flavor profile. For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.

Conclusion for Mongolian Beef :

Mongolian Beef is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender beef and a delicious sweet-savory sauce. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. By following this recipe, you can enjoy restaurant-quality Mongolian Beef right at home. Whether you stick to traditional beef or experiment with other proteins, this dish is sure to impress friends and family with its delightful taste.

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Mongolian Beef


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that marries tender beef strips with a luscious sweet and savory sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. Serve it over rice or noodles to soak up the mouthwatering sauce, and watch as your family and friends come back for seconds!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb beef flank steak, sliced against the grain
  • 4 green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Slice the flank steak into thin strips. For easier slicing, freeze it for about 30 minutes.
  2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce and cornstarch with the sliced beef. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Combine brown sugar, minced garlic, and sesame oil in another bowl; stir until blended.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry marinated beef strips until browned (3-4 minutes).
  5. Add prepared sauce and chopped green onions; cook until sauce thickens and coats beef.
  6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added crunch, toss in broccoli or snap peas during stir-frying. Customize by using chicken or tofu instead of beef for variation.

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