Name: Mongolian Beef Made Easy: Savory Comfort Food at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Flank Steak (Sirloin can be used as a substitute.); 1/4 cup Cornstarch (For crispy coating.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (Low-sodium recommended.); 1/3 cup Brown Sugar (Dark brown sugar gives richer flavor.); 3 cloves Garlic (Minced for intensity.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Grated for the best flavor.); 2 cups Steamed Rice (White or brown rice.); Stir-Fried Vegetables (Use broccoli or bell peppers.)

The sweet and savory allure of Mongolian Beef brings a touch of restaurant magic right to my kitchen. With tender strips of beef enveloped in a glossy sauce, this dish has a cozy charm that’s hard to resist. What I love most about this quick and easy P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time. You get the perks of a flavorful dinner without the hassle and expense of takeout. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress family and friends with your cooking skills! Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this delightful favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is Mongolian Beef a Must-Try?

Unmatched Flavor: The sweet and savory sauce envelops tender beef, creating an explosion of taste in every bite.

Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, ensuring you’re never stuck with fast food again.

Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s a dish that everyone enjoys. Pair it with vibrant stir-fried vegetables or serve over rice for a complete meal!

Versatile Base: While the classic version shines, feel free to experiment with proteins or add veggies for a personalized touch. Want more easy recipes? Check out the comforting Chinese Beef Broccoli for another tasty option!

Restaurant Quality at Home: Create an impressive dining experience without ever leaving your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful atmosphere of your favorite restaurant with this homemade masterpiece!

Mongolian Beef Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a delicious meal in no time!

For the Beef

Flank Steak – This primary protein brings tenderness to the dish; sirloin is a suitable substitute if needed!
Cornstarch – Essential for creating a crispy coating; it enhances the beef’s texture for that restaurant-quality finish.

For the Sauce

Soy Sauce – Adds a savory depth; low-sodium soy sauce is recommended for better control of saltiness.
Brown Sugar – Provides the necessary sweetness to balance the flavors; dark brown sugar gives a richer taste.
Garlic – Fresh garlic adds aromatic flavor; minced garlic delivers even more intensity.
Ginger – Brightens the dish with its zesty kick; opt for fresh ginger for the most vibrant flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed Rice – A comforting base that soaks up the delicious sauce perfectly; choose either white or brown rice based on your preference.
Stir-Fried Vegetables – Enhance the meal with colorful veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

This easy Mongolian Beef recipe allows you to enjoy home-cooked comfort food like never before!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Aim for strips about 1/4 inch thick for optimal texture. Once done, place the sliced beef in a bowl and set it aside while you prepare the sauce. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth feeling in your Mongolian Beef.

Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of soy sauce, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a glossy sauce that balances sweet and savory. Set this delicious sauce aside, as it will soon transform your cooked beef into a flavorful dish.

Step 3: Coat the Beef
Lightly toss the sliced flank steak in cornstarch until evenly covered. This coating is essential for achieving that crispy exterior we love in Mongolian Beef. Let the coated beef sit for a few minutes to absorb the cornstarch while you heat your skillet, ensuring it’s hot enough to create a satisfying sear.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until the strips are browned and crispy. Keep an eye out for a nice golden color; this step is crucial for developing that irresistible flavor in your Mongolian Beef.

Step 5: Combine and Cook
After the beef is cooked, carefully return all the browned strips to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and glaze over your beef perfectly. This sticky finish brings the dish to life, making it incredibly appetizing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Mongolian Beef is sizzling and beautifully glazed, serve it immediately over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds or green onions for a burst of flavor and color. Pair it with fresh stir-fried vegetables for a well-rounded meal that impresses family and friends alike!

What to Serve with P.F. Chang’s Mongolian Beef

Transform your Mongolian Beef dinner into a memorable feast with these delightful pairings!

Fluffy Steamed Rice: A comforting staple that beautifully absorbs the savory sauce, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Add vibrant veggies like colorful bell peppers and crisp broccoli to bring freshness and crunch to your meal. Toss them in soy sauce for extra flavor!
Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles offer a rich twist, enhancing the overall umami experience of your dinner. Serve them alongside to complement the beef perfectly.
Crispy Egg Rolls: Light and savory, these appetizers add delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the Mongolian Beef.
Sesame Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing brings a crunchy texture and tang that balances the dish’s sweet elements.
Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Both drinks provide a refreshing palate cleanser that enhances the meal without overshadowing the bold flavors of the beef.

Every combination enhances the experience, allowing you to savor a restaurant-worthy feast right at home!

How to Store and Freeze Mongolian Beef

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Mongolian Beef fresh and ready for a quick meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked Mongolian Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen beef in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce.

Freshness Tip: To maintain the flavor and texture of your Mongolian Beef, always allow it to cool completely before storing it in the fridge or freezer.

Mongolian Beef Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic Mongolian Beef recipe!

Protein Twist: Substitute flank steak with chicken or tofu for a deliciously different protein option. Both options absorb the flavor beautifully!
Veggie Boost: Add in vibrant vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the dish’s final moments of cooking for a colorful, nutritious burst.
Spicy Kick: Enhance the dish’s heat by tossing in red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha for a fiery flavor adventure. You’ll love the balance of spice with sweetness!
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version without compromising that marvelous taste.
Sweet Alternatives: Swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup to create a different type of sweetness, adding unique flavors to your sauce.
Crispy Topping: Elevate texture by garnishing with crispy fried onions or sesame seeds for an extra crunch in every bite. This simple addition makes all the difference!
Zesty Refresh: Try incorporating a splash of lime or lemon juice to brighten the sauce. This fresh twist adds a delightful citrus note to your Mongolian Beef.
Creamy Texture: For a rich twist, add a spoonful of peanut butter or cashew cream when combining the sauce with the beef. This creamy addition will create an unforgettable flavor experience.

If you’re eager for more comforting ideas, you might enjoy exploring Chinese Beef Broccoli or our delectable Ground Beef Dumplings for even more delightful meals!

Expert Tips for Mongolian Beef

• Slice Against the Grain: Always slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness and to enhance the melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Pre-heat the Pan: Ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the beef. A hot pan creates a delicious sear and prevents the meat from steaming.

• Coat and Rest: After coating your beef in cornstarch, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps achieve the crispy texture we all love in Mongolian Beef.

• Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to keep the temperature consistent. Overcrowding the pan leads to steamy meat instead of crispy, beautifully browned strips.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it a bit longer until it reaches the perfect coating consistency for the beef.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the last minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition!

Make Ahead Options

These Mongolian Beef preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can slice the flank steak and prepare the sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger) up to 24 hours in advance—just keep them separate in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can coat the beef in cornstarch ahead of time; simply refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. To finish the dish, when you’re ready to serve, heat your skillet and stir-fry the beef until crispy, then combine with the sauce to thicken it. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delicious flavors with minimal effort on a hectic weeknight!

Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best flank steak for Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! Look for flank steak that is bright red with minimal dark spots. The meat should be firm to the touch and marbled with fat for added flavor. Fresh flank steak usually has a slight shine, indicating its freshness. Avoid any cuts with excessive bruising or discoloration.

What is the best way to store leftover Mongolian Beef?
Very! Store your Mongolian Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the beef cool to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation and sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze Mongolian Beef? How?
Sure thing! To freeze your Mongolian Beef, make sure it has completely cooled down. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe ziplock bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What if my sauce is too thin or thick?
No problem! If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes over medium heat, stirring frequently until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it turns out too thick, simply add a splash of water, broth, or soy sauce to loosen it up while reheating. Adjusting the sauce is all part of the cooking adventure!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have a soy allergy, you can substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative or use coconut aminos for a similar flavor with less sodium. For those watching their sugar intake, consider using a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to maintain the taste without the calories. Just be cautious with substitutions, as they might change the flavor profile slightly.

Can I add vegetables to my Mongolian Beef?
The more the merrier! Yes, absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas towards the end of cooking. This not only amps up the nutrition but also adds vibrant color and texture to your dish. Just stir-fry them for 2-3 minutes after adding the beef back to the skillet, allowing them to soften slightly and soak up the delicious sauce.