Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right into your home. With its sweet and savory profile, this dish features tender beef marinated to perfection. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. This recipe is quick, taking only 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can have Mongolian Beef on the table in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet soy sauce and tender beef creates an irresistible taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve it with rice or noodles for a beautiful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this dish can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed mindfully.

Tools and Preparation

To create delicious Mongolian Beef, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the beef easy and ensures even cooking.
• Large skillet or wok: This allows you to stir-fry the beef evenly at high heat, giving it that signature char.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining marinades and preparing ingredients before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Beef Marinade

• 1 pound beef flank steak (thinly sliced between ⅛ to ¼ inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 teaspoons Shaoxing rice wine
• ½ teaspoon Kosher salt (a little less if using fine salt)
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

For Stir-Frying

• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil)
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper (more or less to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce

For Vegetables

• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced; about 2 cloves)
• ½ large yellow onion (sliced)
• 1 bunch green onion (cut into 2-inch pieces; separate white and green parts)

Optional Ingredient

• 1 ounce rice vermicelli (medium thickness; optional; use more or less as preferred)

How to Make Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, combine water, Shaoxing rice wine, Kosher salt, baking soda, and cornstarch.
2. Add thinly sliced flank steak to the marinade. Mix well to coat all slices evenly and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add oil once hot enough to sizzle when meat is added.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Remove excess marinade from beef slices.
2. Add beef in batches if necessary, avoiding crowding in the pan.
3. Cook until browned on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sliced onions.
2. Stir-fry for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add white parts of green onions and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return cooked beef to the skillet with vegetables.
2. Pour in additional Shaoxing rice wine, sugar, soy sauce, and cracked black pepper.
3. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

1. If using rice vermicelli, prepare according to package instructions separately.
2. Serve Mongolian Beef over rice or noodles with garnished green onions on top.

Enjoy your homemade Mongolian Beef! This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Mongolian Beef

Mongolian beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or an elaborate dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant and fluffy option that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
• Fried Rice: Add some vegetables and eggs for a hearty side that complements the flavors of Mongolian beef.

With Noodles

• Lo Mein: Tossed with vegetables and a light soy sauce, lo mein adds an enjoyable texture to your meal.
• Rice Vermicelli: Light and delicate, this noodle option absorbs the sauce beautifully.

As a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use crisp lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with Mongolian beef for a fun and interactive meal.
• Flour Tortillas: Soft tortillas can add a unique twist and allow for easy eating on-the-go.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed Bok Choy: This Chinese vegetable brings a slight crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the beef.
• Stir-Fried Broccoli: A classic side that adds color and nutrition to your plate.

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How to Perfect Mongolian Beef

To achieve restaurant-quality Mongolian beef at home, follow these simple tips. Each step enhances flavor and texture, ensuring your dish is irresistible.

• Use Flank Steak: This cut is tender and flavorful, making it ideal for quick cooking.
• Marinate the Beef: Letting the beef sit in seasoning helps deepen its flavor.
• High Heat Cooking: Cooking at high temperatures gives you that essential charred flavor reminiscent of BBQ.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: For even cooking, make sure to leave space between the beef slices when frying.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar based on your taste preference; you can make it less sweet if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Mongolian Beef

Pairing side dishes with your Mongolian beef can enhance the meal’s overall flavor. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Fried Rice: Aromatic garlic mixed with rice creates a comforting side dish that complements the main course well.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup that provides warmth and balances out the richness of the beef.
3. Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with vegetables, these add crunch and freshness to your plate.
4. Sweet Corn Soup: Creamy corn soup offers a sweet contrast to the savory notes of Mongolian beef.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with sesame dressing provides a cool bite alongside your hot dish.
6. Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables: A colorful medley of veggies adds nutrition and variety to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mongolian beef at home can be easy, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Using the wrong cut of beef: Choosing a tougher cut will result in chewy meat. Opt for flank steak, as it’s both tender and flavorful.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef too long makes it tough. Sear it just until browned for the best texture.
• Skipping marination: Marinating the beef enhances its flavor. Even a short 15-minute marinade can make a significant difference.
• Not adjusting seasonings: Each ingredient’s taste varies. Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt or sugar as needed.
• Ignoring cooking oil: Using insufficient oil can lead to sticking. Don’t skimp on oil when cooking to ensure proper searing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Mongolian Beef

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Portion into single servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Mongolian beef, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

What is Mongolian Beef?

Mongolian beef is a popular Chinese dish made with sliced flank steak, soy sauce, and green onions, known for its sweet and savory flavor profile.

Can I customize my Mongolian Beef?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli or adjust the sweetness by varying the sugar amount to suit your taste.

How do I make my Mongolian Beef spicier?

To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers into your sauce while cooking.

Is Mongolian Beef gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use soy sauce, which contains gluten. However, you can substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free version.

Final Thoughts

Mongolian beef is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for quick dinners and can be customized with various ingredients. Try this recipe at home and enjoy an amazing meal that satisfies your cravings!

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Mongolian Beef is a quick and delicious dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. With tender flank steak marinated in a sweet soy sauce blend, this dish is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The rich combination of flavors, along with its customizable ingredient options, ensures that everyone will leave the table satisfied. Serve it over rice or noodles for a hearty meal that’s as impressive as it is comforting.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef flank steak
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice wine
• 1 tablespoon oil (neutral)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• ½ large yellow onion (sliced)
• Green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine water, Shaoxing rice wine, salt, baking soda, and cornstarch. Add sliced flank steak and marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add oil.
3. Remove excess marinade from beef slices and cook in batches until browned on both sides (2-3 minutes). Set aside.
4. Stir-fry minced garlic and sliced onions until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add white parts of green onions and cook for another minute.
5. Return beef to the skillet, add Shaoxing rice wine, sugar, soy sauce, and cracked black pepper. Stir until heated through.
6. Serve over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg