Mongolian Beef Recipe: How to Make It Better Than Takeout

Have you ever craved Mongolian beef but hesitated to order takeout, knowing that it could cost you a pretty penny? What if we told you that you could make it better—at home—without breaking the bank? In this post, we’ll reveal how you can recreate this mouthwatering, savory dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Our Mongolian Beef recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor, ensuring that your homemade version will surpass any takeout meal.

Let’s dive in and discover how to make Mongolian Beef that will impress everyone at your dinner table, all while being faster and healthier than the takeout option.

Ingredients List

Making Mongolian Beef at home means you get to control the quality of ingredients. Below, we’ll outline the ingredients you’ll need and offer substitutions in case you don’t have everything on hand.

Main Ingredients:

• Beef: 1 lb of flank steak or sirloin (thinly sliced)
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp (for stir-frying)
• Garlic: 4 cloves (minced)
• Ginger: 1 tbsp (fresh, minced)
• Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup (low-sodium preferred)
• Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup (light or dark)
• Cornstarch: 2 tbsp (for coating the beef and thickening sauce)
• Green Onions: 4-5 stalks (chopped)
• Sesame Oil: 1 tbsp (for added flavor)
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for heat

Potential Substitutions:

• Beef: If you prefer a leaner cut, opt for tenderloin or ribeye.
• Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos are excellent gluten-free alternatives.
• Brown Sugar: Honey or maple syrup works as a healthier, natural sweetener.

Timing

A quick, flavorful dish, this Mongolian Beef recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average takeout prep and cook time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by thinly slicing the beef against the grain. Thin slices allow the beef to absorb the marinade better and cook faster, making it tender and flavorful. To make slicing easier, partially freeze the beef for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Coat the Beef

In a bowl, combine the cornstarch and a pinch of salt. Toss the beef slices in the mixture until each piece is well-coated. This will give the beef a crispy, golden texture once cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing it until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure each piece gets crispy.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the beef is cooking, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce

Once the beef is cooked and crispy, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, pour the sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6: Final Toss and Garnish

Return the beef to the pan and toss it in the sauce until each piece is generously coated. Add the chopped green onions and cook for an additional minute until they’re tender and fragrant.

Step 7: Serve!

Serve your Mongolian Beef immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a perfect meal!

Nutritional Information

One serving (based on a 4-serving recipe) of this Mongolian Beef recipe contains approximately:

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 18g
• Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

This dish provides a good amount of protein while keeping the carbs and fats in check. For a more balanced meal, pair it with a side of vegetables or a light salad.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this Mongolian Beef recipe a bit healthier without sacrificing taste, here are a few substitutions:

• Beef: Opt for lean cuts such as flank steak, or go for chicken breast for a lighter protein choice.
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium intake.
• Sugar: Swap brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit for fewer calories and a lower glycemic index.
• Cornstarch: Consider using arrowroot powder for a healthier, gluten-free thickening option.

Serving Suggestions

Here are a few creative ideas for serving your Mongolian Beef:

• Over Rice: Serve it with fluffy white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• With Noodles: Try pairing it with egg noodles, soba noodles, or rice noodles for a more authentic Asian-inspired meal.
• In Wraps: For a fun twist, serve the beef in lettuce wraps or tortillas, creating a Mongolian Beef taco-style meal.
• On the Side: Complement your dish with stir-fried vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh cucumber salad for added crunch and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While preparing this delicious Mongolian Beef recipe, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure success:

• Overcrowding the Pan: When searing the beef, avoid overcrowding the pan, as it will cause the meat to steam instead of crisp up.
• Not Letting the Beef Rest: After cooking the beef, let it rest for a minute before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
• Too Much Sugar: Balance the sweetness with the savory soy sauce—too much sugar can overpower the dish’s flavor.
• Using the Wrong Cut of Beef: The best cuts for Mongolian Beef are those that are tender and easy to slice thin, like flank steak or sirloin.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover Mongolian Beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Reheat on the Stove: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough.
• Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen by simmering on the stove until hot throughout.

To make things even easier, you can prep ingredients ahead of time! Slice the beef, mince the garlic and ginger, and chop the green onions the night before so that when it’s time to cook, everything is ready to go.

Conclusion

This Mongolian Beef recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors that rival any takeout option. By using fresh ingredients and making a few small tweaks, you can customize the recipe to fit your health goals without compromising on taste.

Ready to try it? Head to the kitchen and make this recipe tonight. Don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments section below, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this Mongolian Beef recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to keep the recipe gluten-free.

Q2: Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready, just cook the beef and toss it with the sauce!

Q3: What can I serve with Mongolian Beef besides rice or noodles?
You can serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even steamed jasmine rice for a fragrant pairing.

Q4: How do I prevent the beef from being tough?
Make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain and don’t overcook it. Overcooking toughens the meat.

Q5: Is Mongolian Beef suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe makes excellent leftovers and can be enjoyed over a few days. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container.

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Mongolian Beef better than takeout, we hope you’re excited to get cooking!