Authentic Mongolian Beef Recipe for a Flavorful Dinner

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of flank steak, sliced into thin pieces
  • 1/2 cup of cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup of green onions, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Thinly slice the flank steak against the grain, then toss it in the cornstarch and shake off any excess.
  2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steak slices, making sure not to crowd the pan, and fry until browned and crispy. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the soy sauce, water, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir and cook over medium heat until the sugar has completely dissolved.
  5. Return the beef to the pan and toss in the sauce until completely coated. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
  6. If you want a touch of spice, add the red pepper flakes and stir well.
  7. Just before serving, top the dish with the chopped green onions.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - For slicing the flank steak and chopping the green onions.
  • Knife - To slice the flank steak and mince the ginger and garlic.
  • Large frying pan - For frying the steak and sautéing the ginger and garlic.
  • Measuring cups - To accurately measure the cornstarch, soy sauce, water, and brown sugar.
  • Measuring spoons - For measuring the minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes.
  • Spatula - To toss and stir the beef and sauce in the pan.
  • Plate or bowl - To transfer the cooked steak to and to serve the final dish.

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a meat-free alternative.
  • Replace the cornstarch coating with flour or rice flour for a different texture.
  • Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to make it a Mongolian beef stir-fry.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add in sliced chili peppers.
  • Experiment with different sauces like hoisin sauce or oyster sauce to vary the flavor profile.
  • Include additional seasonings such as Chinese five-spice powder or sesame oil for added depth of flavor.
  • Add a splash of vinegar such as rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch and nuttiness.
  • Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or cauliflower rice for a different base.
  • For a healthier option, bake or air fry the coated beef instead of frying it in oil.

Recipe overview

This Mongolian Beef recipe is a favorite for its savory and slightly sweet flavors, with a hint of heat if you choose to add red pepper flakes. It's a simple dish to prepare, using flank steak that is sliced thin, and lightly coated with cornstarch before frying for a crispy texture. The beef is then tossed in a rich soy sauce and brown sugar mixture that has been infused with garlic and ginger. The final touch is a sprinkle of fresh chopped green onions for a bit of crunch and freshness. This recipe delivers a dish that is satisfyingly flavorful and a perfect balance of textures. Expect a restaurant-quality meal right at home!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use a different cut of beef such as sirloin or ribeye, but flank steak is commonly used for Mongolian beef due to its tenderness and flavor.
  2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While Mongolian beef is best enjoyed fresh, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately. Cook the beef and combine it with the sauce just before serving to maintain its crispy texture.
  4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Mongolian beef in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan on the stovetop.
  5. What can I serve with Mongolian beef? Mongolian beef pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy cutting surface for slicing the flank steak and preparing other ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the flank steak and mincing the ginger and garlic.
  • Frying pan or wok - A large, flat-bottomed pan or wok for frying the steak and sautéing the ginger and garlic.
  • Tongs or spatula - Utensils for flipping and removing the steak from the pan.
  • Measuring cups - To accurately measure the cornstarch, soy sauce, water, and brown sugar.
  • Wooden spoon - A utensil for stirring and tossing the ingredients in the pan.
  • Plates or bowls - For serving the Mongolian beef.
  • Garnish - Optional garnishes such as sesame seeds or additional chopped green onions for added flavor and presentation.

Origin stories

Contrary to popular belief, Mongolian Beef does not actually originate from Mongolia. This dish is a product of American-Chinese cuisine, devised by Chinese immigrants who adapted their cooking styles to suit the tastes of American diners. The term "Mongolian" is simply a fanciful descriptor meant to evoke thoughts of the exotic. Served in many Chinese-American restaurants, this dish is known for its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. In China, it's also known as "Scallion Beef," but regardless of the name, this dish has captured the palates of people around the globe. Some might say that the real journey of Mongolian Beef is not from the steppes of Mongolia, but from the sizzling skillets of Chinese-American restaurants to the dining tables of homes across the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

As an Amazon Associate, we may earn commission from qualifying purchases after you click on affiliate product links (thanks for that). But we hope the links will be relevant and beneficial to you as well.