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A plate of Mongolian beef with tender, caramelized beef in a glossy brown sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a wooden table.

Mongolian Beef Recipe

Chef Nancy
Make this Mongolian Beef Recipe in just 25 minutes! Tender beef in a rich, savory-sweet sauce—better than takeout and easy to cook at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Asian
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Creating the perfect Mongolian beef starts with fresh high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a key role in achieving that signature sweet-savory flavor and tender texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Beef:

  • 1 lb flank steak – Thinly sliced against the grain for the most tender bite.
  • ¼ cup cornstarch – Helps create a crispy exterior while thickening the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – For searing the beef to golden perfection.

For the Sauce:

  • ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – The base of the rich umami-packed sauce.
  • ¼ cup brown sugar – Adds the signature caramelized sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons fresh ginger minced – Provides warmth and depth of flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic minced – Essential for that bold, aromatic taste.
  • ½ cup water – Helps balance the sauce’s consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional – For a slight kick of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a subtle nutty aroma.

For Garnish:

  • 3 green onions sliced – A fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
  • Sesame seeds – For added texture and a restaurant-style finish.

Ingredient Tips:

  • Choosing the Right Beef: Flank steak is ideal but sirloin or skirt steak also work well. Make sure to slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Balancing Sweet & Savory: Adjust the brown sugar and soy sauce to suit your taste—more sugar for a sweeter sauce more soy sauce for a saltier kick.
  • Crispy vs. Tender Beef: Want a crispier texture? Use more cornstarch and let the beef sit for a few minutes before cooking. Prefer a softer bite? Reduce the cornstarch slightly.
  • Now that you have everything ready let’s move on to cooking this irresistible Mongolian beef!

Instructions
 

step-by-Step Guide to Making Mongolian Beef

  • Whipping up a homemade Mongolian beef dish is easier than you think—ready in under 30 minutes! Follow these straightforward steps to create a flavorful, takeout-style meal in your own kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  • Slice the steak – Cut the flank steak into thin strips, slicing against the grain to keep the meat tender and easy to chew.
  • Coat with cornstarch – Lightly toss the beef in cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to help create a crispy sear when cooked.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

  • Mix the ingredients – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. If you prefer a bit of heat, stir in red pepper flakes.
  • Set aside – Keep the sauce ready to pour in once the beef is cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

  • Heat the oil – In a large skillet or wok, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the beef – Place the beef in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. If needed, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding.
  • Drain excess oil – Transfer the cooked beef to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any extra grease.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  • Simmer the sauce – Pour the prepared sauce into the same pan and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
  • Toss in the beef – Add the seared beef back into the pan, stirring well to coat each piece in the sauce.
  • Garnish – Sprinkle in sliced green onions and drizzle with sesame oil for extra depth of flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Classic pairing – Serve hot over steamed rice for a comforting, satisfying meal.
  • Add vegetables – Stir-fried bell peppers or broccoli make excellent additions for extra color and nutrients.
  • Final touch – Garnish with sesame seeds for a restaurant-style finish.
  • Tips for the Perfect Mongolian Beef:
  • Want extra crispiness? Let the cornstarch-coated beef sit for a few more minutes before cooking.
  • Prefer a thicker sauce? Simmer the sauce a little longer before adding the beef.
  • Looking for a milder taste? Reduce the brown sugar or use low-sodium soy sauce to adjust the sweetness and saltiness.
  • By following these simple steps, you’ll create a homemade Mongolian beef dish that’s bursting with flavor—better than any takeout!
Keyword Chinese beef recipe, easy Asian dinner, Mongolian beef,, stir-fry beef