Simple Mongolian Beef

If you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and satisfying meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, look no further than this Simple Mongolian Beef recipe. It features tender flank steak coated in a sweet and savory sauce that pairs beautifully with fluffy rice and crisp vegetables. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the world of flavors with this delectable dish!

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Simple Mongolian Beef recipe is more than just a weeknight dinner option; it’s a flavor-packed experience that can easily become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a keeper:

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Customizable: This dish can easily be tailored to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: The sweetness of the sauce makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.

What’s in the Bowl

To make your Simple Mongolian Beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound flank steak
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 small bunch scallions (green parts only), cut into 1″ pieces
• 1/3 cup (packed) brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/3 cup water

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient:

• Chef’s Knife: For slicing the flank steak thinly and easily.
• Cutting Board: To ensure a safe and clean workspace.
• Wok or Large Skillet: Perfect for stir-frying your beef and vegetables.
• Whisk: To mix your sauce ingredients together thoroughly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Simple Mongolian Beef: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to create this delicious dish? Follow these straightforward steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak

Begin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This will ensure that the meat remains tender during cooking.

Step 2: Coat the Beef

In a bowl, add the sliced steak and sprinkle with cornstarch. Toss the beef until it is fully coated. This will help create a crispy texture when cooked.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the coated beef in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Combine the Ingredients

Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, water, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Return the Beef

Once the sauce is simmering, return the cooked beef to the pan along with the scallions. Toss everything together to ensure the beef is coated in the sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve your Simple Mongolian Beef over a bed of rice or with your favorite vegetables, and enjoy!

Substitutions by Category

If you’re missing an ingredient or have specific preferences, here are some easy substitutions you can make:

• Flank Steak: You can use sirloin or skirt steak instead for a similar flavor and texture.
• Cornstarch: Arrowroot powder can be used as an alternative thickener.
• Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can be substituted for a different sweetness profile.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos work well for a gluten-free option.

Missteps & Fixes

Even the best cooks make mistakes! Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:

• Overcooked Beef: If your beef turns out tough, make sure to slice it thinly and cook it quickly over high heat next time.
• Sauce Too Thick: If your sauce thickens too much, simply add a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
• Too Sweet: If the sauce is too sweet for your liking, add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to balance the flavors.

Save It for Later

Leftovers are a wonderful way to enjoy this dish again! Here’s how to store and reheat your Simple Mongolian Beef:

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also add a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive the sauce’s consistency.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Chicken breast or thigh can be used as a substitute, just adjust the cooking time accordingly as chicken may cook faster than beef.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe is not inherently spicy, but the crushed red pepper flakes can add a kick if you choose to include them. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your spice preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the beef tastes best when freshly made, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the beef fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with Simple Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even quinoa. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables to round out your meal.

After enjoying your Simple Mongolian Beef, why not treat yourself with a delightful dessert? Here are some sweet ideas:

In Closing

This Simple Mongolian Beef recipe is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. With its quick prep time, flavorful ingredients, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it on its own, over rice, or with fresh veggies, this dish is a celebration of simple yet satisfying cooking. So grab your ingredients, get your skillet ready, and treat yourself to a delightful homemade meal that’s bursting with flavor! Enjoy every delicious bite!