Imagine sitting down to a steaming plate of tender beef, coated in a rich, savory-sweet sauce with the perfect balance of garlic and ginger. The flavors are bold, yet comforting, and every bite makes you feel like you’re indulging in a restaurant-quality meal, all within the comfort of your own kitchen. That’s what Mongolian Beef with Garlic & Ginger Sauce offers—an irresistibly tasty dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying.
Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or preparing a meal for guests, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Mongolian Beef is an iconic dish in Chinese-American cuisine, beloved for its bold flavors and tender meat. While not authentically Mongolian, this dish has become a staple in many households across the world, thanks to its versatility and delicious flavor profile.
This article will guide you through making Mongolian Beef with garlic and ginger sauce from scratch. By the end, you’ll be able to prepare this easy yet impressive meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights or any occasion when you crave something special. Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!
What is Mongolian Beef?
Origins and Popularity
Mongolian Beef is one of those dishes that’s often mistaken for something truly traditional, yet it is actually a creation of Chinese-American cuisine. It doesn’t originate from Mongolia, but rather was popularized in Chinese restaurants across the United States. The dish typically features flank steak or another cut of beef that’s stir-fried with a savory-sweet sauce made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
This dish’s sweet and savory combination makes it perfect for those who love bold flavors. It’s often served alongside rice, making it a perfect one-dish meal. Over the years, Mongolian Beef has earned a spot as a go-to takeout choice, and now you can recreate it easily in your kitchen, with the added bonus of knowing exactly what goes into the sauce and how fresh it really is.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons why this Mongolian Beef with Garlic & Ginger Sauce will become a regular on your meal rotation:
- Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen.
- Minimal Ingredients: You don’t need an entire spice cabinet to make this dish. The ingredients are simple and most likely already in your pantry.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: The dish stores well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. You can easily enjoy it throughout the week.
- Healthier Alternative: If you want to make it a bit healthier, feel free to adjust the recipe by swapping some ingredients to suit your dietary needs, like low-sodium soy sauce or using less sugar.
Ingredients for the Best Mongolian Beef
Before you start cooking, make sure you’ve got all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Mongolian Beef to life:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beef (flank or sirloin) | 1 lb | Thinly sliced against the grain |
| Soy Sauce | ½ cup | Low sodium preferred |
| Brown Sugar | ¼ cup | Adds signature sweetness |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Ginger | 1 tbsp | Fresh, grated |
| Cornstarch | ¼ cup | For coating the beef |
| Vegetable Oil | 2 tbsp | For stir-frying |
| Green Onions | 2 stalks | For garnish |
| Red Pepper Flakes | ½ tsp | Optional for spice |
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
Don’t worry if you can’t find a specific ingredient—there are plenty of substitutions that will still keep this dish delicious:
- Swap flank steak with sirloin or even chicken or tofu for a different spin.
- Use honey or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Make this recipe gluten-free by replacing soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mongolian Beef
Step 1 – Preparing the Beef
Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain. This is important because it ensures the meat is tender when cooked. Once sliced, coat the beef with cornstarch—this will give it a crispy texture when stir-fried and help thicken the sauce later on.
Step 2 – Creating the Perfect Sauce
In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and fresh grated ginger. Stir to combine until the sugar dissolves completely. This sauce is the heart of the dish and will give the beef its distinct sweet-savory flavor. If you like your Mongolian Beef on the spicier side, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce to kick up the heat.
Step 3 – Cooking the Beef to Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Stir-fry the beef for 1-2 minutes per side until it’s crispy and golden. Don’t be afraid to let it get a little bit of a caramelized edge—that’s where the flavor comes from.
Step 4 – Bringing It All Together
Once all the beef is cooked, return it to the pan and pour the sauce over it. Stir to coat every piece of beef in the flavorful sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two to allow the sauce to thicken and the beef to soak up the flavors. Once done, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Best Ways to Serve Mongolian Beef
- Steamed White Rice: This is the classic option and the perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fried Rice: Add some extra flavor by serving the beef with fried rice—it’s a great way to elevate the dish further.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair with broccoli, bok choy, or any of your favorite stir-fried veggies for a balanced meal.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lighter alternative, serve your Mongolian Beef over cauliflower rice.
Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef
How to Get Crispy Beef Without Deep Frying
The key to crispy beef without deep frying is to cook it in small batches at high heat. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will result in steaming the beef instead of crisping it. The cornstarch coating will give it that signature crispy texture you crave.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best cut of beef for Mongolian Beef?
For the most tender result, flank steak is the best choice. However, sirloin and ribeye also work well and provide a slightly richer flavor.
Can I make Mongolian Beef without cornstarch?
Yes, you can skip the cornstarch if you prefer. The coating helps achieve the crispy texture, but the dish will still be delicious without it. You can also try using arrowroot powder as a substitute.
Is Mongolian Beef spicy?
Traditionally, Mongolian Beef is not spicy. However, you can easily adjust the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or a bit of sriracha to the sauce.
How do I make Mongolian Beef healthier?
To make it healthier, try using low-sodium soy sauce, reducing the amount of sugar, and opting for a leaner cut of beef. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables instead of rice for a lower-carb version.
Conclusion: Make This Mongolian Beef Today!
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Mongolian Beef with Garlic & Ginger Sauce, it’s time to give it a try in your own kitchen. This dish is fast, flavorful, and sure to impress anyone who tries it. With tender beef, a savory sauce, and a touch of spice, it’s a meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Try this recipe tonight and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your creation with us on social media using #MongolianBeefRecipe—we love seeing your culinary creations!