Quick and Flavorful Mongolian Beef Recipe
Mongolian beef is a dish that combines tender strips of beef with a rich, savoury sauce that is slightly sweet and perfectly balanced with a touch of garlic and ginger. This quick and flavourful recipe is a favourite for busy weeknights, offering a restaurant quality meal made easily at home. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can enjoy bold flavours without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. Whether you serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even alongside stir fried vegetables, Mongolian beef brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Its glossy sauce coats every bite, making it both irresistible and family friendly. If you are looking for a dish that is fast, delicious, and sure to impress, this Mongolian beef recipe is the perfect choice.
Why You Need This Recipe
This Mongolian beef recipe is a must try because it delivers big flavour with very little effort. Unlike complicated takeout dishes, this one comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights when you want something delicious without the stress. The sauce is the highlight savoury, slightly sweet, and rich enough to transform simple beef into a satisfying meal.
Another reason you will love this recipe is its flexibility. You can pair it with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables to make it as light or hearty as you like. It is also budget friendly since you can use affordable cuts of beef and still achieve tender, flavorful results. If you want a quick dinner that tastes like your favorite restaurant dish but is healthier and homemade, this recipe is exactly what you need.
Ingredients
A flavourful dish begins with simple, quality ingredients, and this Mongolian Beef recipe proves that you do not need a long list to create something truly delicious. Here is a breakdown of the ingredients with their approximate calorie count per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Flank steak (thinly sliced) | 1 lb (450 g) | 680 |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup | 120 |
| Vegetable oil | 1/4 cup | 480 |
| Soy sauce | 1/2 cup | 60 |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup | 410 |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tbsp | 5 |
| Green onions (sliced) | 1/2 cup | 10 |
| Water | 1/2 cup | 0 |
Total Calories (approx. for whole recipe): 1780
Calories per serving (4 servings): ~445
How to Prepare
Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain to keep the beef tender. Place the slices in a bowl and toss them with cornstarch until evenly coated, then set them aside for about 10 minutes while you prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, and ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves and the sauce slightly thickens.
Next, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium high heat. Add the beef in small batches, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned and slightly crisp. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and continue until all pieces are done. Pour out excess oil from the skillet, then return the beef to the pan and pour the sauce over it. Toss everything together until the beef is coated in the rich, glossy sauce. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
For the best flavour, always slice the beef against the grain to keep it tender and juicy. Letting the beef sit with cornstarch for a few minutes before cooking helps create that crispy coating you love in restaurant style Mongolian beef. Cook the beef in small batches so it sears evenly instead of steaming. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes until it reaches your desired consistency. Finally, garnish with plenty of fresh green onions and even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavour and presentation.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Mongolian beef pairs beautifully with fluffy steamed rice or fried rice, which soaks up the rich savoury sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside stir fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers. A side of spring rolls or dumplings also makes a delicious addition to complete your meal. For toppings, garnish with freshly chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chiLli oil if you like extra heat. These pairings and toppings not only enhance the flavours but also make the dish feel like a complete restaurant style experience at home.
Conclusion
Mongolian beef is the perfect combination of sweet, savoury, and garlicky flavours that turn a simple dinner into something unforgettable. With its tender slices of beef coated in a rich sauce, this dish is quick to prepare yet full of restaurant quality taste, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special family meals.
Whether you serve it with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Once you try it, you will see why Mongolian beef has become such a favourite around the world. Keep this recipe in your kitchen rotation, and you will always have a flavourful, satisfying dish ready to bring a smile to your loved ones.
