Mongolian Beef Recipe
Introduction
Mongolian beef is a delightful dish that elevates the experience of dining with its rich flavors and tender textures. This recipe offers a simple yet delicious way to create an authentic Mongolian beef dish right in your kitchen. With a few key ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your family and friends with a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef flank steak – 1 pound
Soy sauce – 1/2 cup
Brown sugar – 1/4 cup
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Ginger, minced – 1 teaspoon
Green onions, sliced – 3 stalks
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
This Mongolian beef recipe is not only quick and easy but also a crowd-pleaser that will make any meal feel special. Enjoy the balance of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and the delightful crunch of green onions as you savor this culinary gem.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Beef
Slice the flank steak into thin, even strips against the grain. This will help in achieving tenderness in the cooked meat.
Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak with soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Make the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and a splash of water. This will be the sauce for the Mongolian beef.
Cook the Beef
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef in a single layer and stir-fry until it is browned and cooked through. Do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Add the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, pour the sauce mixture over it. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve the Mongolian beef hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Adjusting Spice Levels
Feel free to add red pepper flakes or fresh chili if you prefer a spicier dish.
Vegetarian Option
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with tofu or seitan and adjust cooking times accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed vegetables or a side salad to complement the dish.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the beef enhances its flavor and tenderness. A mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic can create a flavorful base.
Searing
Searing the beef quickly over high heat locks in juices and creates a brown crust that adds depth to the dish.
Stir-frying
Stir-frying involves cooking ingredients quickly in a hot pan with a small amount of oil, ensuring the beef remains tender and retains its vibrant color.
Thickening Sauces
To achieve a glossy sauce, a mixture of cornstarch and water is often used as a thickening agent in the cooking process.
Serving
Serve the Mongolian beef over a bed of rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce, garnishing with green onions for a fresh touch.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, while flank steak is typically recommended, other cuts like sirloin or ribeye can also work well.
How long should I marinate the beef?
It’s best to marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes, but for even more flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine them when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Mongolian beef?
Mongolian beef pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles, along with stir-fried vegetables.
Is Mongolian beef spicy?
No, traditional Mongolian beef is not spicy; it is more savory and slightly sweet due to the soy sauce and sugar used in the recipe.
Conclusion
Mongolian beef is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender strips of beef with a savory sauce. Its balance of sweetness and umami makes it a delightful meal that can be enjoyed on any occasion. By following the recipe, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home, impressing family and guests alike.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Mongolian Stir-Fry
Swap out the beef for a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, while using the same savory sauce for a delicious vegetarian option.
Mongolian Beef Tacos
Transform your Mongolian beef into a fun taco night by served the beef in taco shells with fresh toppings like cilantro, avocado, and a drizzle of sriracha.
Sesame Ginger Chicken
Try a twist on the classic by using chicken instead of beef, pairing it with a sesame-ginger sauce for a different flavor profile while retaining a similar cooking style.
Mongolian Beef over Rice Noodles
Serve the Mongolian beef over rice noodles for a hearty meal. The noodles will soak up the sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
Quinoa Bowls with Mongolian Beef
For a healthier option, use quinoa as a base for a bowl meal topped with Mongolian beef, steamed vegetables, and a sprinkle of green onions.
Mongolian Beef Fried Rice
Utilize leftover Mongolian beef by adding it to fried rice along with scrambled eggs, peas, and carrots for a quick and easy meal.
