Description
This Easy Mongolian Beef recipe is a quick, savory, and slightly sweet dish featuring tender beef in a flavorful sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. The crispy beef, combined with a garlicky soy-based sauce, makes this recipe a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Steamed rice (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef – Thinly slice the beef against the grain into bite-sized strips. Toss the sliced beef in cornstarch, ensuring it’s evenly coated to create a crispy exterior.
- Cook the Beef – Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and cook for 2-3 minutes per batch until browned and crispy. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer.
- Combine Beef and Sauce – Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir to coat the beef in the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the beef to absorb the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle sliced green onions over the Mongolian Beef and serve over steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.
Notes
- Spicy Mongolian Beef: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a bit of sriracha to the sauce for more heat.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for extra flavor and texture.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a low-carb option.
- Protein Alternatives: Swap beef for chicken breast or pork tenderloin for a different protein option.
