Easy Mongolian Beef

Easy Mongolian Beef is a delicious and quick dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. The tender beef, coated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy, ginger, and garlic, will surely impress family and friends alike. This recipe stands out because it brings a taste of Asian cuisine right into your kitchen without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that elevates the beef.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or noodles, or enjoy it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet-savory flavor profile, making it a hit at the dinner table.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Easy Mongolian Beef, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet
• Wok or large pan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing the beef and developing flavor through browning.
• Wok or large pan: Ideal for cooking quickly at high heat, ensuring the beef remains tender.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing the beef thinly for even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to slice ingredients while keeping your kitchen tidy.

Ingredients

Thin pieces of beef are quickly fried & covered in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy, ginger, & garlic, then served over a bed of rice.

Ingredients:
– 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (plus 2 tablespoons, divided)
– ½ teaspoon minced fresh ginger
– 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
– ½ cup less sodium soy sauce
– ¼ cup water
– ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
– 1 pound flank steak (or your favorite cut of beef, thinly sliced)
– ⅓ cup cornstarch
– 2 green onions (sliced)

How to Make Easy Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Slice the flank steak into thin ¼ pieces.
2. Toss with cornstarch, shaking off any excess and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil over medium-low heat.
2. Stir in minced ginger and garlic, cooking until fragrant (about one minute).
3. Add soy sauce, water, and brown sugar, bringing it to a boil.
4. Let it boil for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a separate pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the beef in small batches for about 2 minutes; it does not need to be cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Beef and Sauce

1. Once all of the beef is browned, add it back to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Heat over medium until hot and bubbly.

Step 5: Final Touches

1. Remove from heat and stir in sliced green onions.
2. Serve hot over rice or noodles for an enjoyable meal.

Enjoy your Easy Mongolian Beef!

How to Serve Easy Mongolian Beef

Easy Mongolian Beef is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• A mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and nutrition to your plate.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Serve the beef in crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option. This is a fun way to enjoy the dish while adding a crunchy texture.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal, making the dish look more gourmet.

Accompanied by Egg Noodles

• For a heartier meal, serve Easy Mongolian Beef over egg noodles. The noodles soak up the delicious sauce wonderfully.

With Pickled Cucumbers

• A side of pickled cucumbers adds a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the beef, enhancing overall flavor.

How to Perfect Easy Mongolian Beef

To ensure your Easy Mongolian Beef turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality beef: Select tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin for the best texture and flavor.
• Slice thinly against the grain: Cutting against the grain helps make the beef more tender and easier to chew.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the beef in small batches to achieve a nice browning without steaming.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the beef to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or basil can enhance flavor and add freshness to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Mongolian Beef

Pairing Easy Mongolian Beef with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice
   Flavorful fried rice with vegetables makes for a hearty companion and is great for soaking up sauce.
2. Sautéed Bok Choy
   This lightly sautéed green adds a mild flavor and vibrant color, making it an appealing addition.
3. Crispy Spring Rolls
   Crunchy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer an enjoyable texture contrast alongside your beef dish.
4. Steamed Dumplings
   Soft dumplings filled with chicken or vegetables pair perfectly with the savory elements of Mongolian beef.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Roasted Brussels sprouts bring out their natural sweetness while providing an earthy flavor that complements meat dishes.
6. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a light starter that balances out the richness of the main course.
7. Garlic Breadsticks
   Soft garlic breadsticks can be used to mop up any leftover sauce, adding extra enjoyment to your meal.
8. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a cooling effect that contrasts nicely with warm beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Mongolian Beef, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure the best results. Here are some mistakes that can affect your dish.

• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the beef with cornstarch can lead to a less tender texture. Make sure to toss the beef well for optimal results.
• Underestimating garlic and ginger: These ingredients are key for flavor. Be generous with them to elevate your dish’s taste.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef too long will make it tough. Aim for a quick cook, just until browned.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: This can overpower the dish. Opt for less sodium soy sauce for a balanced flavor.
• Neglecting to slice against the grain: Slicing with the grain makes meat chewy. Always slice against the grain for tenderness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigeration to maintain quality.

Freezing Easy Mongolian Beef

• Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Easy Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between sessions until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Mongolian Beef?

Easy Mongolian Beef is a quick and flavorful dish made with thinly sliced beef coated in a sweet and savory sauce, typically served over rice.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can easily substitute chicken for beef in Easy Mongolian Beef. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly.

How spicy is Easy Mongolian Beef?

This recipe is not spicy at all but can be adjusted by adding chili flakes or other spices if you prefer some heat.

How do I customize Easy Mongolian Beef?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color while still enjoying the classic flavors.

How long does it take to make Easy Mongolian Beef?

The total time is around 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Conclusion

Easy Mongolian Beef stands out as a delicious and versatile meal perfect for any occasion. Its balance of flavors and quick preparation make it ideal for busy evenings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or try different cuts of meat!