This Mongolian beef recipe brings a takeout favorite right into your kitchen with tender slices of beef in a rich, savory sauce. It’s a fantastic option for an easy and delicious asian dinner. You’ll love how quickly you can create this flavorful dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Flank Steak: You can use sirloin or skirt steak as alternatives.
- Cornstarch: Essential for tenderizing the beef and thickening the sauce.
- Soy Sauce: Use a low-sodium version if you prefer. Tamari works for a gluten-free option.
- Fresh Ginger & Garlic: Don’t skip these for authentic flavor. Garlic powder and ground ginger can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
- Brown Sugar: You can adjust the amount to your sweetness preference.
- Green Onions: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For Garnish:
- 3-4 green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large skillet or wok, whisk, shallow dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef
Toss your thinly sliced flank steak with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until each piece is lightly coated. This step helps to tenderize the beef and create a crispy exterior. Set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Whisk Together the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk these ingredients together until the brown sugar is fully dissolved, creating a flavorful base for your asian dinner.
3. Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cornstarch-coated beef in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Thicken the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the same skillet and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked beef to the thickened sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish generously with chopped green onions before serving this delicious asian dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra vegetables.
- Serve over a bed of rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Increase the red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Mongolian beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make Mongolian beef ahead of time?
You can slice the beef and prepare the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and combine just before serving for optimal texture.
What kind of beef is best for Mongolian beef?
Flank steak is ideal due to its flavor and texture when thinly sliced against the grain. Sirloin or skirt steak are also good choices.
How do you get the beef tender?
Thinly slicing against the grain and coating the beef in cornstarch are key steps to ensure tender results.
Can you make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari to make this an excellent gluten-free asian dinner.
What should you serve with Mongolian beef?
It pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, brown rice, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.
Is Mongolian beef spicy?
Traditionally, it’s more savory and sweet. You can add red pepper flakes to introduce a spicy element if you prefer.