This Simple Mongolian Beef recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of Ulaanbaatar. Rich, savory, and slightly sweet, this dish exemplifies the art of quick and satisfying weeknight meals. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Perfect for busy schedules, this dish not only pleases the palate but also brings a touch of culinary adventure to your dinner table.

The Upside of Simple Mongolian Beef

There’s something truly wonderful about Simple Mongolian Beef. It’s not only quick to prepare but also features minimal cleanup. The combination of tender flank steak coated in a glossy sauce with the crunch of scallions makes for a delightful experience. The best part? You control the spice level, making it perfect for families with varying heat tolerances. This dish is versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even steamed vegetables, giving you the freedom to create a meal that suits your taste.

Ingredient Rundown

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound flank steak – Tender and flavorful, this cut is perfect for quick cooking.
1/4 cup cornstarch – This will help create a crispy coating on the beef.
3 tablespoons olive oil – A versatile oil that adds richness to the dish.
1 small bunch scallions – Only the green parts, cut into 1″ pieces for a fresh crunch.
1/3 cup (packed) brown sugar – Adds sweetness and helps balance the savory flavors.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for a fragrant base.
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – Provides a zesty, aromatic touch.
1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce – The backbone of the savory sauce.
1/3 cup water – To adjust the sauce consistency.

Appliances & Accessories

Prepare to get cooking with these handy tools:

Chef’s knife – For slicing the flank steak and scallions with ease.
Cutting board – A must-have for any meal prep.
Large skillet or wok – Ideal for stir-frying the beef and sauce together.
Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy with your ingredients.
Spatula – For stirring and flipping the beef as it cooks.

Make Simple Mongolian Beef: A Simple Method

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating Simple Mongolian Beef that will have your family raving for more.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures tenderness. Once sliced, place the beef in a bowl and sprinkle with cornstarch, tossing until evenly coated. This will help create that coveted crispy exterior.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the cornstarch-coated beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and just cooked through. Remove it from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Add the brown sugar, soy sauce, water, and optional red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the cooked beef to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add the scallions and cook for an additional minute until the scallions are tender yet still vibrant.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Simple Mongolian Beef over a bed of steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with additional scallions if desired. Enjoy the burst of flavors with each bite!

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

This dish is versatile enough to adapt to any season. Here are some ideas to keep your meals exciting:

Spring: Serve with a side of stir-fried asparagus and carrots for a fresh touch.
Summer: Pair with a light cucumber salad to balance the richness of the beef.
Fall: Add roasted sweet potatoes for a comforting, hearty meal.
Winter: Enjoy with a warm bowl of jasmine rice and steamed broccoli for a cozy dinner.

If You’re Curious

Curious about some variations or substitutions? Here are some options:

Try using chicken or tofu in place of flank steak for a different protein option.
Add bell peppers or broccoli for extra veggies and color in your dish.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce with tamari.
Experiment with other sweeteners, like honey or maple syrup, in place of brown sugar.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Simple Mongolian Beef fresh and delicious, follow these guidelines:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
For longer storage, freeze the cooked beef in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Top Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal, you can also use sirloin or ribeye for a different flavor and texture.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes optional crushed red pepper flakes, which you can adjust based on your heat preference. Feel free to omit them for a milder dish.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just combine them before serving and heat through.

What can I serve with Simple Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you love Simple Mongolian Beef, you might enjoy these other quick weeknight meals:

15-Minute Teriyaki Chicken – A sweet and savory delight.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp – Quick, easy, and full of flavor.
Easy Beef Stir-Fry – A classic that never disappoints.
Vegetable Lo Mein – A great way to use up leftover veggies.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! With Simple Mongolian Beef, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating an experience. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!