Easy Mongolian Beef

Easy Mongolian Beef is a delicious and quick dish that showcases tender beef slices coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Serve it over rice for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic offers a delightful balance of sweetness and umami.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly pairs with rice or noodles, making it adaptable to your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty meal that’s sure to please any palate.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

Tools and Preparation

To make Easy Mongolian Beef, having the right tools on hand makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet or wok
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet or wok: Ideal for frying beef quickly while maintaining tenderness.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing beef into thin pieces.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures even cuts for optimal cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for tossing beef with cornstarch to achieve that crispy texture.

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 the sliced beef with cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

1. In a 10-inch skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil over medium-low heat.
2. Stir in the minced ginger and garlic; cook until fragrant for about one minute.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Add the less sodium soy sauce, water, and brown sugar to the skillet.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it boil for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Transfer the sauce to a small bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Brown 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 until browned (it does not need to be fully cooked).

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Once all the beef is browned, return it to the skillet with the sauce.
2. Heat everything over medium heat until hot and bubbly.

Step 6: Finish It Off

1. Remove from heat and stir in sliced green onions.
2. Serve over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Mongolian Beef

Serving Easy Mongolian Beef is simple and allows for creativity in presentation. This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the beef over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.

With Fried Rice

• For a more indulgent option, accompany the Easy Mongolian Beef with flavorful fried rice, adding vegetables and protein for extra texture.

On a Bed of Noodles

• Place the beef on top of cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, to create a hearty meal that mixes up the textures.

Garnished with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the dish just before serving to add a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch.

Accompanied by Fresh Vegetables

• Serve alongside fresh cucumber slices or shredded carrots for a refreshing contrast to the savory beef.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add fresh cilantro or basil on top of the beef for an aromatic touch that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

How to Perfect Easy Mongolian Beef

To ensure your Easy Mongolian Beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for optimal flavor and texture.

• Use Thinly Sliced Meat: Slice your beef as thin as possible to allow it to cook quickly and absorb more sauce.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the beef in small batches to achieve a nice sear without steaming, which enhances flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Tailor the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference; feel free to reduce it slightly for less sweetness.
• Let Sauce Thicken: Allow your sauce to boil until it reaches a slightly thickened consistency for better adherence to the beef.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or snap peas into your stir-fry for added color, crunch, and nutrition.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy this dish right after cooking for the best texture; reheating can make it soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Mongolian Beef

Pairing side dishes with Easy Mongolian Beef can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A healthy choice that adds vibrant color and balances out the rich flavors of the beef.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a crunchy side with a burst of flavor.
3. Egg Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice made with eggs and vegetables adds substance and makes your meal heartier.
4. Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame oil brings a crunchy texture.
5. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut-infused rice provides a unique twist that’s perfect alongside the savory beef.
6. Miso Soup: A light miso soup served as an appetizer complements this robust entrée beautifully.
7. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Mongolian Beef, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using thick beef slices: Thinly slice the beef for quick cooking and a tender texture. Aim for ¼ thickness to ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Not coating the beef in cornstarch can lead to a less flavorful dish. This step helps create a nice crust and thickens the sauce.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef too long can make it tough. Quick frying ensures it remains tender and juicy.
• Not adjusting the sauce: If you find the sauce too sweet or salty, balance it with more water or soy sauce. Personalizing flavors enhances your dish.
• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale ginger or garlic can affect flavor. Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow Easy Mongolian Beef to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Mongolian Beef

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• For best results, portion out servings before freezing.

Reheating Easy Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring often, until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Mongolian Beef?

Easy Mongolian Beef is a savory dish made with thinly sliced beef coated in a sweet soy-based sauce, perfect for serving over rice.

How can I customize Easy Mongolian Beef?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor. Adjust spices according to your taste!

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can easily substitute chicken breast or thighs for a lighter version of Easy Mongolian Beef.

What should I serve with Easy Mongolian Beef?

Serve it over steamed rice or with noodles. A side of stir-fried vegetables complements this dish well.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make Easy Mongolian Beef gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Easy Mongolian Beef is not only quick and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

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