Mongolian Beef is a beloved takeout dish that combines tender slices of beef with a rich, savory-sweet sauce. The dish is known for its bold flavors, featuring soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, all perfectly balanced to create a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
One of the highlights of Mongolian Beef is its versatility. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables to create a meal that suits your taste and dietary needs. The beef’s caramelized exterior and the sauce’s luscious texture ensure every bite is a flavorful delight.
Homemade Mongolian Beef allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a slightly sweeter sauce, this customizable recipe guarantees a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish every time.
Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
Mongolian Beef comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe uses simple techniques and pantry staples to deliver bold, restaurant-quality flavors.
2. Rich and Flavorful
The sauce is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami notes. Garlic and ginger add warmth, while soy sauce and brown sugar provide depth. This balance of flavors makes the dish irresistible.
3. Customizable and Versatile
This recipe is easily adaptable. Adjust the sweetness, spice, or saltiness to suit your preferences. You can also add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to create a complete, well-rounded meal.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
Ingredients for Mongolian Beef
For the Beef:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Serving Suggestions:
- Steamed rice
- Noodles
- Steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mongolian Beef
Step 1: Prepare the beef.
Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain for tenderness. Pat the slices dry with a paper towel and coat them evenly with cornstarch. Shake off any excess cornstarch and let the beef rest for 5–10 minutes to help the coating adhere.
Step 2: Cook the beef.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. In batches, add the beef slices and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until browned and crispy. Remove the beef and set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the sauce.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, and water, stirring to combine. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 2 teaspoons of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 4: Combine the beef and sauce.
Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until fully coated. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Garnish and serve.
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite sides.
Ingredient Background
Flank Steak
Flank steak is ideal for Mongolian Beef due to its lean texture and rich flavor. Slicing it thinly against the grain ensures tenderness. If flank steak is unavailable, skirt steak or sirloin are great alternatives.
Cornstarch
Cornstarch creates a light, crispy coating on the beef when fried. It also helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to the meat.
Soy Sauce
Low-sodium soy sauce provides the base of the sauce, delivering umami and saltiness without overwhelming the dish. Regular soy sauce can be used, but consider reducing the added salt elsewhere in the recipe.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with a hint of sweetness. The sugar caramelizes as it cooks, adding depth to the sauce.
Garlic and Ginger
These aromatic ingredients bring warmth and complexity to the sauce, enhancing its overall flavor profile. Fresh is best, but powdered versions can be substituted in a pinch.
Technique Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef
1. Slice the Beef Thinly
Cutting the steak thinly and against the grain is essential for tender pieces. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making the beef easier to chew.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Cook the beef in batches to ensure it browns evenly. Overcrowding can lower the pan’s temperature, resulting in steamed rather than crispy beef.
3. Balance the Sauce
Taste the sauce before adding the beef and adjust as needed. If it’s too salty, add a splash of water. For more sweetness, increase the brown sugar slightly.
4. Use a Hot Pan
A hot skillet or wok is crucial for achieving the caramelized exterior on the beef. Heat the oil until it shimmers before adding the meat.
5. Garnish for Freshness
Sliced green onions and sesame seeds add a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
1. Spicy Mongolian Beef
Elevate the heat by adding extra red pepper flakes, diced chili peppers, or a drizzle of Sriracha to the sauce. For a smoky twist, try using smoked paprika or chipotle powder. Spicy Mongolian Beef is perfect for those who enjoy bold, fiery flavors and pairs wonderfully with cooling sides like cucumber salad or steamed greens.
2. Mongolian Beef Stir-Fry
Turn Mongolian Beef into a vibrant stir-fry by tossing in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables first for 2–3 minutes to retain their crisp texture, then combine with the beef and sauce. This version is a great way to incorporate more nutrients into your meal without compromising on flavor.
3. Mongolian Beef Lettuce Wraps
For a lighter option, use crisp lettuce leaves as a base for the beef. Butter lettuce or iceberg lettuce works well for this. Fill each leaf with a spoonful of Mongolian Beef, top with shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and a drizzle of sauce. These wraps are perfect for low-carb meals or as an appetizer at gatherings.
4. Noodle Bowl
Transform Mongolian Beef into a hearty noodle dish by tossing it with cooked lo mein, udon, or rice noodles. Add sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a splash of extra sauce to coat the noodles thoroughly. This comforting bowl is a satisfying alternative to rice-based dishes.
5. Mongolian Beef Tacos
Add a fusion twist by using soft tortillas as a base. Fill them with Mongolian Beef, shredded cabbage, pickled onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a unique taco experience that combines Asian flavors with a taco-night favorite.
Freezing and Storing Mongolian Beef
Storing Leftovers
Allow leftover Mongolian Beef to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve the beef’s crispy edges and rich sauce texture.
Freezing Mongolian Beef
For longer storage, place the cooked beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring an airtight seal. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Freezing preserves the flavors and ensures a quick, delicious meal later.
Reheating Tips
Reheat the thawed Mongolian Beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water, broth, or soy sauce to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Avoid microwaving, as it may toughen the beef and alter the sauce’s consistency.
Healthier Twist Ideas
1. Lean Protein
Replace flank steak with lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin, or use chicken, turkey, or tofu for a lighter option. These alternatives retain the dish’s flavor while reducing fat content.
2. Low-Sodium Soy Sauce
Swap regular soy sauce for a low-sodium variety to reduce salt levels without sacrificing the umami flavor. This adjustment is particularly helpful for those monitoring their sodium intake.
3. Less Sugar
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce for a slightly less sweet version. Add a splash of orange juice for natural sweetness and a hint of citrusy brightness.
4. Extra Vegetables
Boost the dish’s nutrition by incorporating additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bok choy. These add fiber and vitamins while complementing the rich flavors of the beef.
5. Bake Instead of Fry
Skip frying and bake the beef slices instead. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes. This method results in a lighter dish with less oil while still delivering a tender texture.
Serving Suggestions for Events
1. Family Dinners
Serve Mongolian Beef as the centerpiece of a comforting family meal. Pair it with fluffy steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, and a refreshing cucumber salad for a balanced, satisfying dinner that everyone will enjoy.
2. Casual Gatherings
Include Mongolian Beef in a buffet spread alongside lo mein noodles, fried rice, spring rolls, and dumplings. This creates an Asian-inspired feast that’s perfect for entertaining a crowd.
3. Date Night
Impress your partner with a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plate Mongolian Beef over jasmine rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Add a side of garlic stir-fried broccoli or bok choy for an elegant, romantic dinner.
4. Meal Prep
Mongolian Beef is an excellent choice for meal prepping. Divide it into individual containers with rice or quinoa and steamed vegetables. It reheats beautifully, making it a quick, delicious lunch or dinner option throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the best cut of beef for Mongolian Beef?
Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness and rich flavor. Sirloin or skirt steak can also be used as alternatives.
2. Can I make Mongolian Beef vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the beef with tofu or seitan for a plant-based version. Ensure the tofu is pressed and lightly fried to mimic the texture of the beef.
3. How do I adjust the spice level?
Add or reduce red pepper flakes to control the heat. For a spicier dish, incorporate fresh chili peppers or a dash of Sriracha.
4. Can I make Mongolian Beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce separately in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine them just before reheating.
5. Can I freeze Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked beef and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
6. What sides pair well with Mongolian Beef?
Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles are classic pairings. For a lighter option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad.
7. How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice the beef thinly against the grain and cook it quickly over high heat. This technique ensures tenderness and prevents overcooking.
8. What’s another Asian-inspired dish to try?
If you love Mongolian Beef, you’ll enjoy our Orange Chicken, a sweet, tangy, and crispy dish that’s perfect for pairing with rice or noodles!
Conclusion
Mongolian Beef is a timeless dish that combines the comforting flavors of home cooking with the bold, enticing essence of Asian cuisine. The tender, thinly sliced beef, coated in a glossy, savory-sweet sauce, delivers a restaurant-quality experience with every bite. The caramelized edges of the beef and the balance of garlic, ginger, and brown sugar create a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and irresistible.
This recipe’s beauty lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Whether you want to spice it up with chili peppers, incorporate vibrant vegetables for added nutrition, or transform it into a noodle bowl, Mongolian Beef offers endless possibilities. Its quick preparation time and straightforward steps make it accessible even for novice cooks, while its versatility ensures it remains a favorite for family meals, entertaining guests, or planning weekly meal preps.
By mastering this Mongolian Beef recipe, you’ll have a go-to dish that eliminates the need for takeout and impresses everyone who tries it. The joy of creating a homemade version of this classic ensures not only fresh ingredients and customizable flavors but also the satisfaction of crafting a dish that rivals your favorite Asian restaurant. Whether for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering, Mongolian Beef is a dish you’ll return to time and time again.