The Best Mongolian Beef Recipe: Easy, Flavorful & Ready in 30 Minutes

 

The Best Mongolian Beef Recipe: Easy, Flavorful & Ready in 30 Minutes

Mongolian Beef Recipe


Introduction

If you’re searching for the best Mongolian beef recipe, you’re in the right place. This dish is a restaurant classic, known for its tender beef strips coated in a savory-sweet sauce with garlic and ginger. The good news? You can make it at home in just 30 minutes, without sacrificing flavor. In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare easy Mongolian beef with a simple marinade, the perfect sauce, and step-by-step instructions to guarantee success every time.

Why You’ll Love This Mongolian Beef Recipe

  • Quick & easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.

  • Flavorful: Rich sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar.

  • Better than takeout: Fresh ingredients, no hidden additives.

  • Family-friendly: Pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Mongolian Beef Recipe


Before starting, gather these essentials for your Mongolian beef marinade and sauce:

  • 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tbsp cornstarch

  • 3 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)

  • 2 green onions, sliced

  • Optional: red pepper flakes or chili paste for spice

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

The secret to tender Mongolian beef is slicing it thinly against the grain. This breaks down the muscle fibers and prevents toughness. Coat the slices lightly with cornstarch to create a crispy exterior when cooked.

Step 2: Create the Mongolian Beef Marinade

For an authentic Mongolian beef marinade, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and beef broth. This not only flavors the meat but also helps tenderize it. Marinate for at least 10–15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Best Mongolian Beef Sauce

The heart of this recipe is the sauce. In a small bowl, combine:

  • Soy sauce

  • Brown sugar

  • Minced garlic

  • Fresh ginger

  • A splash of beef broth

Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly. This creates the signature glossy finish that coats every piece of beef.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

  1. Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.

  2. Stir-fry the marinated beef in small batches for 2–3 minutes until browned.

  3. Remove and set aside.

Cooking in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures the meat sears instead of steaming.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce

Return the beef to the wok, pour in the sauce, and toss until the meat is fully coated. Add green onions at the end for freshness. In less than 30 minutes, your homemade Mongolian beef is ready to serve!

Serving Suggestions

Mongolian beef is versatile and pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed white rice or jasmine rice

  • Noodles (lo mein, rice noodles, or soba)

  • Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas

Tips for Success

  • Use flank steak for the best texture.

  • Don’t skip cornstarch – it gives the beef its crispy edges.

  • High heat is key – this keeps the beef juicy inside and caramelized outside.

  • Adjust sweetness: Add more or less sugar depending on your taste.

  • For spicy Mongolian beef, add chili flakes or sriracha.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overcrowding the pan – this makes the beef soggy.

  • Cooking too long – thin slices cook fast, so 2–3 minutes is enough.

  • Skipping the marinade – even a quick 10 minutes boosts flavor.

How to Make Mongolian Beef in 30 Minutes (Quick Recap)

  1. Slice beef thinly and coat with cornstarch.

  2. Prepare Mongolian beef marinade (soy sauce, sugar, broth).

  3. Cook beef in batches over high heat.

  4. Make the best Mongolian beef sauce with garlic and ginger.

  5. Toss beef with sauce, garnish with green onions, and serve.

FAQ About Mongolian Beef Recipe

What cut of beef is best for Mongolian beef?

Flank steak is the top choice, but sirloin or skirt steak works too. Always slice against the grain.

Can I make Mongolian beef ahead of time?

Yes. You can prepare the sauce and slice the beef in advance, then cook everything quickly before serving.

How do I make a healthier version?

Use low-sodium soy sauce, reduce sugar, and stir-fry with less oil. Serve with steamed vegetables.

Can I freeze Mongolian beef?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. If freezing, store cooked beef and sauce separately in airtight containers.

Is Mongolian beef really from Mongolia?

No. This dish actually originated in Taiwanese and American Chinese restaurants, inspired by Asian flavors but not authentic to Mongolia.

Final Thoughts

This easy Mongolian beef recipe is proof that you don’t need to order takeout to enjoy rich, flavorful Asian-inspired cuisine. With a simple marinade, the best Mongolian beef sauce, and just 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s restaurant-quality but homemade.



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