If you’re craving a dish that’s both savory and satisfying, this Mongolian beef recipe is just what you need. Featuring tender slices of beef coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, this dish is quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Perfect served over rice or noodles, it brings the taste of Asian cuisine right to your table. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Based on a serving size of approximately 1 cup, this dish contains about 350 calories, 18g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein. This nutritional breakdown is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips.
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth.
3. Add the sliced beef to the bowl and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated beef and toss to coat evenly.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the beef strips to the skillet, cooking until browned (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for another minute.
8. Pour in the marinade, bringing it to a simmer.
9. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Stir in chopped green onions and serve hot.
Alternative Ingredients
You can replace flank steak with sirloin or even chicken for a lighter version. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can also be used in place of brown sugar.
Serving and Pairings
Mongolian beef pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or noodles for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. While it can be frozen, the texture of the beef may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the beef; it should be tender, not tough.
– Don’t skip the marinating step for maximum flavor.
– Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the beef to achieve a good sear.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
– Monitor the sauce closely to prevent burning.
Helpful Tips
– Slice the beef thinly for quicker cooking.
– Marinating overnight enhances the flavor.
– Adjust the sweetness to taste by varying the brown sugar.
– Garnish with extra green onions for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, while flank steak is ideal, you can substitute with sirloin, ribeye, or even chicken for a different flavor profile.
Is Mongolian beef spicy?
Traditionally, Mongolian beef is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or chili sauce if you prefer some heat.
What can I serve with Mongolian beef?
It pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. Adding a side of stir-fried vegetables also complements the dish nicely.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef ahead of time and cook it just before serving for maximum freshness.
How can I thicken the sauce further?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce while it simmers.
Conclusion
This Mongolian beef recipe is a fantastic choice for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With its savory sauce and tender beef, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy creating this delicious dish that brings the essence of Asian cuisine to your kitchen!
Mongolian Beef Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger minced
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth.
- Add the sliced beef to the bowl and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the marinated beef and toss to coat evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef strips to the skillet, cooking until browned (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for another minute.
- Pour in the marinade, bringing it to a simmer.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in chopped green onions and serve hot.
