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Mongolian Beef

Mongolian Beef

This quick and flavorful Mongolian Beef recipe features tender, thinly sliced beef strips coated in a luscious, slightly sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with a restaurant-quality Asian-inspired dish that’s easy to prepare and customize.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef

  • 1 lb thinly sliced flank or sirloin steak (no thicker than 1/4 inch)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup water or broth

Coating and Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for high-heat cooking)

Garnish

  • 3 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Optional: toasted sesame seeds for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly across the grain into strips no thicker than 1/4 inch. Lightly toss the beef slices with cornstarch to coat evenly. This coating creates a tender yet slightly crispy texture when cooked.
  2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until the brown sugar completely dissolves to make a savory, sweet, and aromatic sauce base.
  3. Sear the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in a single layer and sear quickly for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.
  4. Simmer the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan and add a splash of water or broth. Allow it to simmer gently so the sauce thickens and develops a glossy finish.
  5. Combine and Finish: Return the seared beef to the pan. Toss to coat each strip thoroughly with the thickened sauce. Stir in the chopped green onions gently to let their fresh flavor shine through.
  6. Serve: Garnish with additional sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or as a filling for lettuce cups or steamed buns.

Notes

  • Slice beef as thinly as possible to ensure quick cooking and tender texture.
  • Cook beef in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and steaming instead of searing.
  • Adjust brown sugar to taste for a sweeter or more savory sauce.
  • Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha for a spicy variation.
  • Substitute tamari and arrowroot powder for a gluten-free version.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best depth of flavor.
  • Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor of the sauce and beef.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mongolian Beef, Asian Stir Fry, Quick Beef Recipe, Tender Beef Strips, Sweet and Savory Sauce, Easy Dinner