Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe for Beginners

Craving a savory stir-fry? Dive into the rich flavors of Mongolian Beef, a delicious Asian-inspired dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. With tender slices of marinated beef cooked to perfection in a sweet and savory sauce, this meal is both easy and flavorful. Whether served with steamed rice or noodles, Mongolian Beef is a crowd-pleaser that you can quickly whip up for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients List

For Marinating the Beef

• 1 pound flank steak (sliced against the grain into ¼-inch thick slices)
• 2 teaspoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

For Stir-Frying

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil
• 4-5 green onions (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Required Kitchen Tools

To create the perfect Mongolian Beef, having the right tools can make the process smoother:

1. Wok or Large Skillet: A wok allows for even heat distribution, which is essential for stir-frying the beef quickly.
2. Sharp Knife: To slice the flank steak thinly and against the grain.
3. Mixing Bowls: For marinating the beef and preparing the sauce.
4. Tongs or Spatula: To stir-fry the beef and vegetables efficiently.
5. Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients for the sauce.

These tools will help you achieve the best texture and flavor for your Mongolian Beef.

Beef Preparation

Marinating the Beef

To ensure tender beef with bold flavors, start by marinating the sliced flank steak:

1. In a large bowl, toss the beef slices with 2 teaspoons of neutral oil and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch until well coated. The cornstarch helps create a crispy exterior when cooked.
2. Let the beef marinate for about 15-20 minutes while you prepare the sauce and other ingredients.

Sauce Preparation

Mixing the Sauce

While the beef marinates, prepare the savory sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Set the sauce aside for later use.

Cooking the Mongolian Beef

Stir-frying the beef to the perfect level of crispiness and caramelization is key to the dish:

Stir-Frying the Beef

1. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil and allow it to heat up.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and crispy on the edges. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Combining the Sauce and Beef

1. In the same wok or skillet, add the prepared sauce and bring it to a simmer. Stir it frequently to prevent burning.
2. Once the sauce begins to thicken slightly (about 1-2 minutes), add the cooked beef back into the wok. Toss the beef in the sauce, ensuring it is well-coated.

Adding Green Onions

1. Stir in the green onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until they become tender yet still slightly crisp.
2. Remove the wok from heat.

Serving and Decoration

Garnishing and Serving

To finish off your Mongolian Beef, garnish it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and serve it hot:

• Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Noodles: Mongolian Beef also pairs wonderfully with stir-fried noodles for a heartier option.
• Vegetables: Add a side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas for extra texture and flavor.

Suggested Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro for added freshness
• Extra red pepper flakes for more heat

Storage Instructions

How to Store Mongolian Beef

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the beef in a skillet over low heat or microwave it until heated through.

Freezing Mongolian Beef

You can also freeze Mongolian Beef for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow the cooked beef to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of Mongolian Beef is easier than you might think! With a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, this dish is a family favorite that brings restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. By following this simple recipe, you’ll create a meal that’s sure to impress, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.