Delicious Mongolian Steak Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Mongolian Steak

A flavorful fusion of Mongolian and Chinese cooking, this Mongolian steak recipe offers tender beef stir-fried to perfection with a savory-sweet sauce. Perfect for both Asian cuisine enthusiasts and those new to it, this dish brings bold flavors and aromatic spices right to your table.

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Prep Time 35 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Asian, Chinese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Wooden or metal spatula
• Tongs
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls

Ingredients

  

For the Beef

• 1 lb flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tbsp cornstarch for marinating
• 1 tbsp oil for stir-frying

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice wine
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 tsp cornstarch for thickening

For Garnish

• 2 green onions thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

 

Prepare the Beef

• Slice flank steak thinly against the grain.
• Mix sliced beef with 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Let sit for 10 minutes.
• Prepare the marinade by combining soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch. Add beef to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Beef

• Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat.
• Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat.
• Stir-fry the marinated beef in batches for about 2-3 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce

• In the same wok, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
• Mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry, then add to the sauce. Stir until thickened.

Combine and Serve

• Return the cooked beef to the wok. Toss to coat with the sauce.
• Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
• Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Tips & Variations:

• Adjusting Sweetness and Spice: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar by a tablespoon. For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for tofu or seitan for a plant-based Mongolian stir-fry. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before frying for the best texture.
• Different Cuts of Beef: While flank steak is the traditional choice, sirloin, skirt steak, or ribeye also work well for Mongolian beef. Just be sure to slice them thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Add More Vegetables: For a more vibrant dish, add bell peppers, onions, or baby corn to the stir-fry. Just add them along with the garlic and ginger to keep them crisp-tender.
• Spicy Garlic Sauce: For an extra kick, try making a garlic sauce with extra minced garlic and chili paste. This can be added to the sauce for a more intense flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover Mongolian beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked Mongolian beef for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Reheating: To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to help bring back the sauce’s consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

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Delicious Mongolian Steak Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Are you craving a dish that’s sweet, savory, and satisfying? Look no further than the Mongolian steak recipe. This beloved beef dish is a favorite in American restaurants. It delights with tender beef, bold flavors, and the right spices.

What makes Mongolian steak special? It’s a mix of Mongolian and Chinese cooking. This fusion creates a unique and captivating dish. From choosing the right beef to the marinade and stir-frying, each step enhances the dish.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a perfect Mongolian steak recipe at home. Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to Asian cuisine, this tutorial will help you. You’ll learn to make this mouthwatering dish with confidence.

Understanding the Origins of Mongolian Beef

The story of Mongolian beef is both fascinating and complex. It started in the nomadic culture of Mongolia. Over time, it evolved into a beloved dish in Asian cuisine worldwide.

Traditional vs. Modern Interpretations

Originally, Mongolian beef was simple. It was cooked over an open fire with just a few seasonings. But as Mongolian beef history grew, it changed. It picked up flavors from nearby areas and made its way to Chinese-American restaurants.

Now, Mongolian beef is known for its sweet and savory sauce. It has tender beef and a mix of aromatic vegetables. This mix of flavors has won over diners everywhere.

Cultural Significance in Asian Cuisine

Mongolian beef is more than just food. It shows the rich history of Asian cuisine evolution. As it spread, it became a symbol of cultural exchange and culinary creativity in Asia.

Whether you try it the old way or in new versions, Mongolian beef is special. It gives us a taste of Asia’s vibrant history and traditions.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Mongolian Steak Recipe

Making the perfect Mongolian steak recipe needs the right mix of ingredients. At its core, the Mongolian beef ingredients are key to getting that authentic taste.

The base of the dish is the flank steak. It’s known for being tender and having a rich beef flavor. To enhance the steak, you’ll need a mix of salty and sweet, like soy sauce and brown sugar.

Spices and herbs add depth to the Asian stir-fry sauce. Fresh ginger and garlic bring their unique flavors. Cornstarch is the magic ingredient that thickens the sauce, making it smooth and sticky.

By picking and mixing these Mongolian beef ingredients carefully, you can make a delicious Mongolian steak.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef for Mongolian Stir Fry

Choosing the right beef cut is key to a delicious Mongolian steak. Whether you prefer a tender flank steak or want to try other cuts, knowing the best options is important.

Best Steak Cuts for Tenderness

For a mouthwatering Mongolian steak recipe, pick tender cuts. Flank steak and sirloin are great choices. They are lean but full of flavor, perfect for quick stir-fries.

Meat Preparation Techniques

• Slice the beef against the grain: This simple step helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and easy-to-chew bite.
• Tenderize the meat: Using a meat mallet or tenderizing tool can help to further break down the tough fibers, ensuring a consistently tender texture throughout your Mongolian steak.
• Marinate the flank steak marinade: Letting the beef soak in a flavorful marinade, such as a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, can enhance the overall taste and keep the meat juicy.

By choosing the right beef cuts for stir fry and using proper preparation, you’ll make a tender and flavorful Mongolian steak recipe.

The Secret Behind the Perfect Mongolian Beef Marinade

Creating the ultimate Mongolian beef marinade or Asian beef marinade is all about balance. The perfect marinade tenderizes the meat and adds savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. These flavors are key to authentic Mongolian cuisine.

The marinade’s heart is soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch. Soy sauce gives a deep umami taste. Rice wine adds a sweet touch and depth. Cornstarch makes the beef velvety and glossy.

The best marinade mix is:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice wine
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Allow the beef to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more tender and flavorful the Mongolian beef will be.

Mastering the Mongolian beef marinade can take your Asian beef dishes to new heights. Try different ratios and marination times to find your favorite.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need

Making a tasty Mongolian steak recipe needs more than just ingredients. You also need the right kitchen tools and equipment. From the best pan to essential utensils, let’s look at what you need for stir-fry perfection.

Wok vs Regular Pan Options

Choosing between a wok and a regular pan is key for stir-frying. A wok’s round shape and sloped sides are perfect for Mongolian beef. It helps distribute heat well and makes tossing ingredients easy, which is key for that charred flavor.

If you don’t have a wok, a heavy-duty skillet or sauté pan works too. It’s a good alternative.

Essential Utensils for Stir-Frying

• Wooden or metal spatula: Helps you stir and toss ingredients well.
• Tongs: Great for turning the beef while it cooks.
• Ladle: Needed for adding sauce ingredients.
• Slotted spoon: Helps scoop out cooked beef without extra liquid.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For cutting the beef and other ingredients.

With the right stir fry equipment and wok cooking techniques, you can make a delicious Mongolian steak recipe at home.

Step-by-Step Mongolian Steak Recipe Preparation Guide

Preparing the perfect Mongolian beef stir fry is a fun journey. Follow these steps to make this Asian dish in your kitchen.

Start by preparing your beef. Cut the steak into thin, bite-sized slices against the grain for tenderness. Then, mix the beef with the marinade ingredients. Allow it to absorb the flavors for a minimum of 30 minutes.

1. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until it’s ripping hot.
2. Add a tablespoon of oil and swirl it around to coat the surface evenly.
3. Carefully add the marinated beef in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding.
4. Sear the beef, turning occasionally, until it’s browned on all sides but still slightly pink in the center, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Take the beef out of the wok and set it aside.
6. Add the remaining ingredients, such as garlic, ginger, and scallions, to the wok and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
7. Return the beef to the wok and toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld, about 2-3 minutes more.
8. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.

By following these simple beef stir fry steps, you’ll make authentic Mongolian beef at home. Savor this delicious dish with those you love.

Mastering the Stir-Frying Technique

Creating the perfect stir-fry is an art that needs an understanding of temperature and how to add ingredients. These skills are key to bringing out bold flavors and the “wok hei” (the breath of the wok) in your Mongolian steak recipe.

Temperature Control Tips

Success in stir-frying comes from keeping the right temperature. Begin by heating your wok or skillet to a very high heat. This heat is crucial for searing the beef and vegetables, keeping their juices in, and adding that special wok hei flavor.

• Use a wok or heavy-duty skillet to ensure even heat distribution.
• Keep the heat high throughout the cooking process, adjusting as needed to prevent burning.
• Use a high-smoke point oil like peanut or avocado oil to withstand the intense heat.

Timing and Sequence

Timing and the order of adding ingredients are key in stir-frying. By planning the cooking process, you can get the right mix of textures and flavors.

1. Start by stir-frying the beef first to get a good sear and seal in the juices.
2. Add the vegetables in order of their cooking time, starting with the hardest and ending with the most delicate.
3. Introduce the sauce at the end, allowing it to quickly heat through and meld with the other ingredients.
4. Always keep the ingredients moving in the wok or skillet to prevent overcooking and ensure even cooking.

By mastering temperature control and ingredient sequencing, you’ll be on your way to making an amazing Mongolian steak recipe dish. It will show off the exciting wok hei cooking technique.

Creating the Signature Mongolian Sauce

Making the perfect Mongolian beef sauce recipe is crucial for a great Mongolian steak. The sauce brings all the flavors together, making the dish delicious. Here’s how to make this essential sauce for your Mongolian steak recipe.

Key Ingredients for the Mongolian Beef Sauce

• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Rice vinegar
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Beef broth or stock

The mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger is key. It makes the Asian stir fry sauce that’s central to Mongolian beef. Modify the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.

The secret to a great Mongolian beef sauce recipe is the right mix of ingredients and cooking methods. Let’s look at it more closely.

Pairing Options: Noodles and Side Dishes

When you serve your Mongolian steak recipe, think about pairing it with different noodles and side dishes. These choices can make your meal even better. You can go for classic rice or try new noodle combinations to add more flavor and texture.

Rice vs Noodle Combinations

Traditionally, Mongolian beef is served with steamed white rice. This lets the sauce mix well with the rice. But, you can also try jasmine rice or brown rice for a different taste.

For a heartier meal, serve the steak with udon noodles or lo mein. These noodles add a nice texture to your dish.

Vegetable Side Dish Suggestions

To complete your Mongolian beef meal, add some colorful vegetables. Try sautéed bok choy, broccoli, or a mix of stir-fried veggies. They offer a nice contrast to the rich steak.

You can also roast Brussels sprouts or make an Asian slaw. These add a fresh and crunchy element to your meal.

FAQ

What is the history and cultural significance of Mongolian steak recipes?

Mongolian beef started in traditional Chinese cooking. It became popular in American restaurants, changing the dish. Now, it’s a mix of Asian and American tastes, using beef instead of lamb.

What are the essential ingredients for a perfect Mongolian steak recipe?

You need thinly sliced beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. These ingredients make the sauce sweet, savory, and slightly spicy.

How do I choose the best cut of beef for Mongolian stir-fry?

Flank steak or sirloin are great for Mongolian beef. They’re tender and lean, perfect for stir-frying. Always slice the beef against the grain for extra tenderness.

What is the secret to the perfect Mongolian beef marinade?

The marinade tenderizes the beef and adds flavor. Use soy sauce, rice wine, and a bit of cornstarch. Marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to achieve the best flavor.

What kitchen tools and equipment do I need for making Mongolian steak recipes?

A wok is best for stir-frying Mongolian beef. But, a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan works too. You’ll also need a sharp knife, cutting board, and spatula or tongs.

How do I achieve the perfect stir-fry technique for Mongolian beef?

To stir-fry Mongolian beef well, heat your wok or pan very hot. Add oil and meat, stir-frying in batches to prevent steaming. Control the heat and timing for the right doneness and caramelization.

How do I make the signature Mongolian sauce?

Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic for the sauce. Add cornstarch to thicken. Simmer until it’s the right consistency to coat the beef.

What are some recommended side dishes to serve with Mongolian beef?

Serve Mongolian beef with steamed white rice or noodles like lo mein or udon. Stir-fried broccoli, snow peas, or baby bok choy make great veggie sides, adding to the dish’s bold flavors.