Mongolian Beef Recipe

Mongolian Beef is a classic Chinese-American dish known for its tender slices of beef, flavorful sauce, and vibrant green onions. It’s a stir-fry favorite that balances savory and slightly sweet flavors, making it a popular choice for home cooks and restaurant menus alike. Here’s how to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 3 green onions, sliced into 2-inch pieces
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Make the Sauce: In another bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using), until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices in batches, cooking each batch for 1-2 minutes until browned and crispy. Remove the beef and set aside.
4. Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine and Simmer: Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet, stirring well to combine with the aromatics. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
6. Add Beef and Green Onions: Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with sliced green onions. Toss everything together until the beef is coated in the sauce and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve the Mongolian Beef hot over steamed white rice. Garnish with additional sliced green onions if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Slice Beef Thinly: Cutting the flank steak thinly against the grain ensures tenderness.
• Control Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference for spiciness.
• Serve Immediately: Mongolian Beef is best enjoyed fresh and hot, right after cooking.
• Customize Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and color.

Conclusion:

With its rich flavors and quick cooking time, Mongolian Beef is a perfect dish for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of restaurant-quality Chinese cuisine at home. Whether you’re a stir-fry enthusiast or new to cooking Asian-inspired dishes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the tender beef, savory sauce, and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!

Happy cooking!