Name: Savor Every Bite of This Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (Thinly sliced against the grain); 2 tablespoons Corn Starch (Coats beef for crispy texture); 1 medium Carrot (Peeled and julienned); 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (Sliced into strips); 3 stalks Green Onions (Thickly sliced from the stem); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Grated); 3 cloves Garlic Cloves (Minced); 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar (Packed tightly); 1/2 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (Use Tamari for gluten-free); 1 teaspoon Sriracha (Optional, adjust to taste); 1/4 cup Water; 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (For sautéing); 2 tablespoons Neutral Oil (Canola, avocado, or vegetable oil preferred); 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (Optional, for garnish)

There I was, craving the comforting flavors of my favorite takeout but feeling too busy to wait for delivery. That’s when I decided to whip up this Easy Homemade Mongolian Beef recipe—my solution to satisfying that hunger while keeping it homemade and wholesome. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have tender, crispy beef coated in a delectable sauce that sings of garlic and ginger, perfectly mingling with crisp vegetables. This recipe is not only a delightful twist on classic Mongolian beef, but it also transforms into a quick stir-fry that will impress your family and friends. Whether served over fluffy rice, quinoa, or noodles, it’s a meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Ready to dive into a bowl of homemade goodness that beats the fast-food routine? Let’s get started!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Simplicity: You can create this dish in just 30 minutes, proving that homemade meals can fit into any busy schedule.

Flavor Explosion: The balance of garlic and ginger in the sauce brings a mouthwatering taste that rivals your favorite takeout.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap beef for chicken or tofu, making it a flexible option for all diets.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it over rice or quinoa, and watch it disappear at family dinners or gatherings. Enhance your meal rotation with this easy Mongolian beef recipe that will leave everyone begging for seconds!

Easy Mongolian Beef Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to whip up this mouthwatering dish!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness; freezing it slightly helps with easier slicing.
Corn Starch – Coats beef for a crispy texture when seared; consider substituting with potato or tapioca starch for different textures.

For the Veggies

Carrot – Adds sweetness and crunch; peel and julienne for even cooking.
Red Bell Pepper – Provides vibrant color and a sweet flavor; slice into strips for the perfect bite.
Green Onions – Adds freshness; thickly slice from the stem to garnish beautifully.

For the Sauce

Fresh Ginger – Gives a zesty bite; grated ginger works best for texture.
Garlic Cloves – Minced for evenly distributed flavor depth throughout the sauce.
Brown Sugar – Balances the savory elements perfectly; pack it tightly for best results.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and umami; use Tamari for a gluten-free option.
Sriracha – Optional for adding just the right kick of heat; adjust to taste based on your spice preference.
Water – Used to create the sauce’s base, helping everything come together seamlessly.

For Cooking

Unsalted Butter – Enhances richness and flavor; perfect for sautéing those crisp vegetables.
Neutral Oil – Essential for high-heat cooking; options like canola, avocado, or vegetable oil work best.

For Garnish

Sesame Seeds – Optional, but they add a delightful nutty flavor and a beautiful look to your dish.

This easy Mongolian beef recipe is sure to become a family favorite in no time!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a mixing bowl, take your thinly sliced flank steak and toss it with corn starch until each piece is evenly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crispiness when seared. Set the coated beef aside while you prepare the sauce, ensuring it’s well mixed and ready to get started.

Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine the grated ginger, minced garlic, packed brown sugar, water, low-sodium soy sauce, and Sriracha if desired. Mix thoroughly until the brown sugar dissolves completely. This flavorful sauce will give your easy Mongolian beef its signature taste, so feel free to adjust the spice level to your liking.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Heat one tablespoon of neutral oil and one tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted and begins bubbling, add the julienned carrots and red bell pepper. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for about 3–4 minutes until they are crisp-tender, then remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sear the Beef
Increase the heat to high and add the remaining oil to the skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add the corn starch-coated beef in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Sear for about 2 minutes on each side until the beef is golden and crispy, achieving that perfect texture. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Combine and Finish Cooking
Return the cooked vegetables back to the skillet with the beef, then sprinkle in the sliced green onions. Pour your prepared sauce over the entire mixture, stirring gently to combine everything. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and envelop your easy Mongolian beef beautifully.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once your sauce has thickened to a glossy finish, it’s time to serve! Scoop the hearty Mongolian beef onto plates or over your choice of steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. For an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top to enhance flavor and aesthetics. Savor the joy of your homemade creation!

Make Ahead Options

These easy Mongolian beef recipe components are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy nights! You can slice the flank steak and toss it with corn starch up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. Additionally, prepare the sauce by mixing the ginger, garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Sriracha, and refrigerate it as well—this can be made up to 3 days ahead without losing flavor. When you’re ready to cook, just stir-fry the vegetables and sear the beef as instructed, then combine everything with your prepped sauce for delectable results just like fresh! Enjoy the convenience of homemade Mongolian beef that rivals takeout while spending minimal time cooking.

Expert Tips for Easy Mongolian Beef

Prep Ahead: Make sure all ingredients are prepped in advance, as this easy Mongolian beef recipe cooks quickly; chaos in the kitchen can lead to overcooked ingredients!
Avoid Overcrowding: Sear the beef in batches to prevent overcrowding the skillet. This allows each piece to develop a crispy texture instead of steaming.
Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer. Just keep an eye on the heat to avoid burning.
Cut Against the Grain: When slicing flank steak, always cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. This small detail can elevate your dish significantly.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to play with additional vegetables such as snap peas or broccoli. Just remember to cook them until crisp-tender for a delightful crunch!

What to Serve with Easy Homemade Mongolian Beef?

A delightful homemade feast can be just moments away with a few complementary sides that elevate your meal to the next level!

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it perfectly soaks up the savory sauce, making every bite irresistible.
Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunch and flavor of these rolls provide a satisfying contrast, adding variety and a fun finger-food element to your table.
Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed with garlic, this greens dish offers a refreshing crunch alongside the tender beef, creating a balanced plate.

Pairing this dish with light and fresh options not only enhances the meal but also ensures a delightful range of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad balances the richness of the beef, adding a zesty, tangy brightness.
Sesame Noodles: Packed with flavor, these noodles complement the beef’s sauce beautifully, creating a harmonious blend of tastes and textures on your plate.
Light Pinot Noir: A fruity wine with subtle acidity, it pairs splendidly, enhancing the flavors of the dish and adding a touch of elegance to your meal.

Storage Tips for Easy Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it sealed helps to lock in flavors and maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the easy Mongolian beef for up to 3 months. Place in a freezer-safe container, or use freezer bags, removing excess air.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to regain moisture, ensuring the beef stays tender.

Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Chicken or Tofu: Swap the flank steak for thinly sliced chicken breast or pressed tofu for a lighter protein option. Both choices absorb the sauce beautifully and remain deliciously tender.
Coconut Aminos: For a soy-free version, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This sweet and savory alternative brings a lovely depth to your dish without any gluten.
Extra Veggies: Add color and nutrition by incorporating broccoli or snap peas. These crisp veggies not only elevate the dish visually but also provide additional nutrients.
Sweet Heat: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of hoisin sauce for sweetness or chili flakes for an extra kick. Together, they balance and enrich the overall taste, making each bite irresistible.
Noodle Swap: Try serving this dish over udon or rice noodles instead of rice or quinoa for a fun twist. The noodles soak up the savory sauce perfectly.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving. Their bright flavors will uplift your easy Mongolian beef, creating a delightful contrast that pairs well with the savory sauce.
Make it Spicy: Amp up the heat by stirring in more Sriracha or adding sliced fresh chilies to the sauce. Your taste buds will certainly appreciate the heat!

These variations not only keep the dish exciting but also allow you to experiment with flavors and textures that suit your family’s palate. Enjoy each delicious bite! And while you’re in the mood for easy-to-make recipes, you might also want to check out 30-Minute Mongolian Beef or Korean Beef Bulgogi for more delightful meals!

Easy Homemade Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best flank steak for this recipe?
When selecting flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red with minimal visible fat. It should feel firm to the touch and have a smooth texture. Avoid any packages with dark spots or excessive marbling, as this can indicate lower quality. If you can, ask your butcher for recommendations—freshness is key in ensuring your easy Mongolian beef turns out tender and flavorful!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Mongolian beef?
Absolutely! Store your leftover easy Mongolian beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors while keeping the dish fresh. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat and add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.

Can I freeze Mongolian beef, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your easy Mongolian beef! For best results, place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.

What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
Very! If you find that your sauce is thinner than you’d like after simmering, there’s a simple fix. Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this mixture into the sauce while it simmers, and it will thicken up beautifully in just a couple of minutes. Just remember to keep stirring to avoid any lumps!

Is there a gluten-free alternative for soy sauce?
Definitely! You can easily substitute low-sodium soy sauce with Tamari for a gluten-free option in your easy Mongolian beef recipe. Another great alternative is coconut aminos, which provides a slightly different flavor profile but works wonderfully in stir-fries. Just adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
The more the merrier! Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini—just be sure to adjust the cooking time so they remain crisp-tender. Include them when you add the carrots and bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious boost that enhances flavor and texture in your easy Mongolian beef!