Simple Mongolian Beef
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
336 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American, Asian-American Fusion
Simple Mongolian Beef
Description
Simple Mongolian Beef combines thinly sliced flank steak, coated in cornstarch for a delicate crust, quickly cooked in batches to maximize browning and prevent steaming. The key to this recipe lies in the sauce made from brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, grated ginger, and optional red pepper flakes, which produce a harmonious balance of sweet, salty, and mildly spicy flavors. The cooking method locks in juiciness while allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the beef and scallions. This dish is particularly practical for home cooks because preparation is straightforward, with a short cooking time once ingredients are assembled.
The finishing step of tossing the browned beef and scallions into the bubbling sauce deepens the flavor and melds the components together, giving the dish its characteristic glossy appearance and rich taste. It can be served immediately with rice or other simple everyday side dishes, making it a versatile choice for a family meal or weeknight dinner.
Adjusting the amount of ginger and red pepper flakes tailors the dish’s warmth and zing, while seasoning adjustments can be made at the end if desired. Rice is optional but commonly paired, and starting the rice first ensures a nicely timed meal. This recipe’s approach reflects a balance of flavor and texture achieved through careful preparation and timing.
Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 small scallions cut into 1" pieces, bunch, green parts only
Sauce ingredients:
- 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, crushed
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated fresh
- 1/3 cup soy sauce low sodium
- 1/3 cup water
Instructions
- I recommend prepping all ingredients before starting this recipe as it goes fast. Slice the steak against the grain into 1/4" thick pieces, then add it to a bowl and toss it with the cornstarch.
- Add the sauce ingredients to another bowl and whisk together.
- Add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil to a large skillet (I use a 12" one) and let it heat up on your largest burner over medium-high heat until HOT (4-5 minutes on my gas stove).
- You will cook the beef in two batches to get the best browning. Add half the steak to the skillet in a single layer and let it cook undisturbed for 1 minute, then flip, using tongs, and cook for another minute. It should release easily once it's browned. Transfer to a plate. Repeat for the second batch, adding the third tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet.
- Add the sauce to the skillet and let it bubble for about 30 seconds, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom, then add in the scallions and also return the beef to the pan. Toss with the sauce and let it cook for another 1-3 minutes or until the steak is cooked to your liking and the sauce thickens up. Take the skillet off the heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Double the ginger and red pepper flakes to increase the heat and zing level according to preference.
- Adjust salt and pepper seasoning at the end if needed, especially if using low sodium soy sauce.
- Serve with steamed rice; typically one cup of uncooked rice feeds four people.
- Prepare all ingredients ahead of time as cooking the beef goes quickly and is done in batches for best browning.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 336 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 336kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 28g | 9% |
| Protein | 27g | 54% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 68mg | 23% |
| Sodium | 836mg | 35% |
| Potassium | 516mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 0.5g | 2% |
| Sugar | 18g | 36% |
| Vitamin A | 97IU | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 55mg | 6% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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