If you’re craving something sweet, savory, and a little bit indulgent, Mongolian Beef is the perfect recipe to try at home. This takeout favorite is surprisingly simple to make and packed with bold flavors that will impress family and friends alike. In this post, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to make the best Mongolian Beef, share some tips for perfect results, answer common questions, and finish off with a few final thoughts.
What is Mongolian Beef?
Despite its name, Mongolian Beef doesn’t actually originate from Mongolia. It’s a Chinese-American dish that gained popularity through restaurants specializing in Asian-American cuisine. Typically, it features thin slices of beef (usually flank steak) stir-fried with a rich sauce made of soy, brown sugar, and garlic. The sauce caramelizes beautifully, coating every tender piece of meat with an irresistible glaze.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2-3 green onions, sliced into 2-inch pieces
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Thinly slice your steak against the grain. Toss the slices in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. This step helps create that signature crisp edge once the beef hits the hot pan.
2. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and minced ginger. Set aside.
3. Sear the Beef
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until browned and crispy around the edges, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Cook the Aromatics
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté the garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
5. Combine Everything
Pour the sauce into the pan with the garlic. Let it simmer for a minute, then return the beef to the pan. Toss everything together so the beef is thoroughly coated in the glossy sauce. Stir in the green onions during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired for extra flavor and crunch.
Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef
- Slice thinly: Thin cuts cook faster and stay tender.
- Use a hot pan: High heat helps to sear the beef quickly without overcooking.
- Don’t overcrowd: Cook in batches to maintain a nice sear instead of steaming the meat.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
FAQs About Mongolian Beef
What cut of beef is best for Mongolian Beef?
Flank steak is most commonly used because it’s lean and becomes tender when sliced thinly and cooked quickly. Skirt steak or sirloin are also great alternatives.
Can I make Mongolian Beef ahead of time?
Yes! Mongolian Beef can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the best texture.
Is Mongolian Beef spicy?
Traditionally, Mongolian Beef is more sweet and savory than spicy. However, you can easily add red pepper flakes or sliced chilies if you want to turn up the heat.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas are popular additions that complement the flavors beautifully.
Is there a way to make it healthier?
You can reduce the sugar, use a lighter soy sauce, and stir-fry the beef with less oil. Serving it with brown rice or cauliflower rice also adds a healthy twist.
Conclusion
Mongolian Beef is the ultimate homemade comfort food — simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests. With its rich, savory sauce and tender beef slices, it’s no wonder this dish is a restaurant favorite. By following these easy steps and helpful tips, you’ll be able to recreate that crave-worthy flavor right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned home chef, Mongolian Beef is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
Ready to impress yourself and your family? Grab your wok and get cooking — delicious Mongolian Beef awaits!
