Easy Mongolian Beef (30-Minute Recipe)

This Easy Mongolian Beef recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. With tender slices of beef coated in a savory-sweet sauce, it’s a dish that the whole family will love. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe brings the flavors of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen.

RECIPE:

Ingredients:

  • For the Beef:
    • 1 lb beef tenderloin or flank steak, sliced against the grain (450g)
    • 1/4 cup cornstarch (30g)
    • 1/2 tsp baking soda
    • Oil for cooking
  • For the Sauce:
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
    • 1/3 cup water (80ml)
    • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (60ml)
    • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (55g)
    • 1/4 tsp black pepper
    • 3 green onions, chopped
    • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Beef:
    • In a bowl, combine the sliced beef, cornstarch, and baking soda.
    • Mix until the beef is well-coated and set aside.
  2. Cook the Beef:
    • Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil.
    • Add the coated beef to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides.
    • Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger.
    • Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • Pour in the water, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper.
    • Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Finish the Dish:
    • Return the beef to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
    • Add the chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the onions are tender.
    • Garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired.
  6. Serve:
    • Serve the Mongolian beef hot, over steamed rice or noodles.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair this Mongolian beef with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles. For a balanced meal, add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad.

Cooking Tips:

  • Slice the beef thinly against the grain for the most tender results.
  • Use a high smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil for frying.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Beef provides a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
  • Garlic and ginger add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Green onions offer a fresh flavor and additional vitamins.

Dietary Information:

  • Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe works because the beef is tenderized with baking soda and cornstarch, ensuring a soft texture. The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates a well-balanced sauce that is both savory and sweet, while the green onions add freshness and color.

Conclusion:

Easy Mongolian Beef is a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its tender beef and rich, savory sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this delicious meal in just 30 minutes, bringing the taste of restaurant-quality food to your dinner table.