Mongolian Beef is a beloved dish that combines crispy beef slices with a rich, sweet, and savory sauce, making it a favorite among lovers of Asian cuisine. Known for its mouthwatering taste and simple preparation, this dish can easily be made at home, saving you the trip to your favorite restaurant. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a quick and satisfying meal, Mongolian Beef is a perfect choice.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions:
- In a bowl, toss the sliced flank steak with cornstarch until evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices in a single layer and cook until crispy and browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in soy sauce, water, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Return the cooked beef to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Add green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 380 kcal | Servings: 4
The Origins of Mongolian Beef
Despite its name, Mongolian Beef does not originate from Mongolia. Instead, it is a dish that has been popularized by Chinese-American restaurants and is closely associated with Taiwanese-style stir-fried dishes. The dish gained popularity in the United States, where it became a staple at Asian-fusion restaurants such as P.F. Chang’s.
Mongolian Beef is traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, typically flank steak, which is coated in cornstarch, pan-fried until crispy, and then tossed in a delicious sauce made of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic. The end result is a dish packed with flavor, texture, and a perfect balance of sweet and salty notes.
What Makes Mongolian Beef Special?
One of the main reasons Mongolian Beef stands out is its unique texture and rich umami flavor. The crispy exterior of the beef combined with the glossy sauce creates a contrast that makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
1. The Perfect Combination of Sweet and Savory
Mongolian Beef strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory flavors. The brown sugar in the sauce caramelizes slightly when cooked, giving the dish a hint of sweetness that complements the deep umami taste of the soy sauce.
2. Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike many other Asian-inspired dishes, Mongolian Beef is relatively easy to prepare. With only a handful of ingredients and a short cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying.
3. Crispy, Tender Beef
The technique of coating the beef with cornstarch before frying not only helps create a crisp texture but also helps the sauce adhere to the beef better. This step ensures that each piece of meat is packed with flavor and has the perfect texture.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Mongolian Beef
Mongolian Beef pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some of the best options to serve alongside this dish:
1. Steamed White or Jasmine Rice
A classic pairing, steamed white or jasmine rice helps soak up the delicious sauce and balances the strong flavors of the dish.
2. Fried Rice
For a heartier meal, try serving Mongolian Beef with fried rice. The combination of vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce in fried rice adds another layer of flavor.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables
Adding stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas brings freshness and crunch to the meal, making it more balanced and nutritious.
4. Noodles
If you prefer noodles over rice, Mongolian Beef also pairs well with lo mein or chow mein noodles. The sauce clings to the noodles, creating a satisfying and slurp-worthy dish.
Variations of Mongolian Beef
While the classic version of Mongolian Beef is already delicious, there are several ways to customize the dish to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
1. Spicy Mongolian Beef
For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or sliced chili peppers can give the dish an extra kick. This variation adds a layer of spice that pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory sauce.
2. Mongolian Chicken or Tofu
If you don’t eat beef or want a lighter alternative, you can substitute the beef with chicken or tofu. Both options absorb the flavors of the sauce well and make for a delicious alternative.
3. Low-Sodium Version
For a healthier option, use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content without sacrificing flavor. You can also add more fresh vegetables to enhance the nutritional value of the dish.
Tips for Making the Best Mongolian Beef at Home
To achieve restaurant-quality Mongolian Beef, follow these expert tips:
1. Slice the Beef Thinly
The key to tender beef is slicing it against the grain into thin pieces. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easy to chew.
2. Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Coating
Coating the beef in cornstarch before frying gives it a crispy texture while also helping to thicken the sauce.
3. Use High Heat
Cooking the beef on high heat ensures that it crisps up quickly without overcooking. This technique also helps to lock in the juices, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
4. Let the Sauce Thicken
After adding the sauce to the beef, let it simmer for a minute or two so it can thicken and coat the beef evenly. This step enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Mongolian Beef is one of those dishes that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with incredible flavors that rival any takeout option.
Conclusion:
Mongolian Beef is a dish that has gained worldwide popularity due to its bold flavors, crispy texture, and simple preparation. Though it may not have originated in Mongolia, its rich umami taste and sweet-savory sauce make it a favorite in Chinese-American cuisine. By following a few key cooking techniques, you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy it with rice, noodles, or vegetables, Mongolian Beef is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.