One sizzling evening, I was determined to whip up something extraordinary with the ingredients I had on hand. The answer? Crispy Mongolian Beef! The moment the flank steak hit the hot oil, the kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that promised a delicious meal to come. Not only is this recipe a breeze to prepare—taking just 30 minutes from start to finish—but it also transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful experience that will leave your family craving more. With its addictive crispy texture and rich taste, you might just declare it your newest weeknight staple. Are you ready to take your cooking to the next level and impress your palate? Let’s dive in!
Why Is Crispy Mongolian Beef Irresistible?
Sizzling, mouthwatering flavor: This dish combines the rich sweetness of brown sugar with savory soy sauce for an explosion of taste in every bite.
Quick and easy: In just 30 minutes, you can create a gourmet meal that rivals takeout, perfect for busy weeknights.
Addictive texture: The crispy beef strips are coated in cornstarch, delivering the ideal crunch that transforms dinner into an indulgent experience.
Versatile dish: Serve with rice, noodles, or veggies, making it easy to customize for any occasion or dietary preference!
Family favorite: Guaranteed to impress, this recipe will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!
Crispy Mongolian Beef Ingredients
• Unlock the secrets to mouthwatering flavor!
For the Beef
- Flank steak – Use this tender cut, cut into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Cornstarch – A key to achieving that addictive crispy coating that sets this dish apart.
For the Sauce
- Soy sauce – Adds a rich, savory base that balances the sweetness of the dish.
- Brown sugar – This gives the sauce a delightful sweetness that caramelizes beautifully with the beef.
- Garlic – Minced for an aromatic punch that complements the flavors.
- Fresh ginger – Grated, it offers a refreshing zing, enhancing the overall taste profile.
For Garnishing
- Green onions – Sliced to add a fresh, vibrant touch that contrasts nicely with the crispy beef.
- Sesame seeds (optional) – Sprinkle for an extra layer of flavor and texture, making your dish even more appealing!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Mongolian Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips, approximately ¼ inch thick for the best tenderness. Aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Set the sliced steak aside while you prepare the cornstarch coating, allowing the juices to marinate slightly.
Step 2: Coat the Steak
In a mixing bowl, liberally coat the steak strips with cornstarch, ensuring each piece is thoroughly covered for that crispy texture. Let the coated beef rest for about 5 minutes, allowing the cornstarch to adhere better. This step is crucial for achieving the perfectly crispy crust that defines your Crispy Mongolian Beef.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat, reaching about 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by adding a small pinch of cornstarch; it should sizzle immediately upon contact. This high heat will create a beautiful, golden-brown crust on the beef when fried.
Step 4: Fry the Beef
Carefully add the coated steak strips to the hot oil in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the beef is crispy and browned. Keep an eye on the color; you want a nice golden texture to develop, giving your Crispy Mongolian Beef that appetizing look and crunch.
Step 5: Mix the Sauce
While the beef is frying, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a separate bowl. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved completely. This sauce will add that mouthwatering sweetness and rich flavor to your dish, balancing out the crispy beef beautifully.
Step 6: Combine and Stir
Once the beef strips are fried to perfection, carefully pour the sauce mixture over the beef in the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and stir gently for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the beef evenly and caramelize slightly. Watch for the sauce to thicken just a bit, enhancing the joy of your Crispy Mongolian Beef.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the Crispy Mongolian Beef to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and, if desired, a sprinkle of sesame seeds to add a touch of elegance and crunch. Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish with rice or noodles for a complete meal experience!
Expert Tips for Crispy Mongolian Beef
• Proper Slicing: Slice the flank steak against the grain to maximize tenderness. This simple trick makes a world of difference in your Crispy Mongolian Beef!
• Cornstarch Coverage: Ensure even coating of cornstarch on the beef. Let it rest for a few minutes; this helps achieve that irresistible crunch when frying.
• Hot Oil: Make sure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before adding the beef. If the oil isn’t hot, the meat will absorb it and lose its crispiness.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the steak in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy instead of crispy beef.
• Sauce Timing: Pour the sauce over the beef while it's still hot. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and caramelizes nicely, enhancing the taste of your dish!
• Garnishing: Don't skip on garnishes! Scallions and optional sesame seeds not only add flavor but also a pop of color that makes your Crispy Mongolian Beef visually appealing.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Mongolian Beef
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors while keeping the meat fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Crispy Mongolian Beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the beef soggy.
Serving: Once reheated, garnish again with green onions and sesame seeds to refresh the dish and restore its appetizing appeal!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Mongolian Beef strips are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat and refrigerate the steak strips in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, which helps them stay crunchy when cooked. Additionally, mix the sauce (soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger) and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, simply fry the coated beef for about 3-4 minutes per side until crispy, then add the sauce and stir for 1-2 minutes until well combined. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort, just as satisfying as takeout!
Crispy Mongolian Beef Variations
Feel free to tweak this recipe and make it your own by exploring these delicious variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version that retains all the flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for a delightful heat that dances on your palate! Spicing up your Crispy Mongolian Beef not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the dish to new heights.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate sliced bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the last few minutes of frying for added nutrition and color. The crunch of fresh vegetables harmonizes beautifully with the crispy beef, creating a vibrant and delicious meal.
- Sweet & Tangy: Mix in a tablespoon of rice vinegar or lemon juice with the sauce for a refreshing tang that balances beautifully with the sweetness. This extra zing can awaken your taste buds, making every bite a delightful surprise.
- Honey Garlic: Replace brown sugar with honey for a more natural sweetness, adding a distinct flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic. The mouthwatering combination of honey and garlic will envelop your senses, offering comfort and pleasure in every mouthful.
- Plant-Based: Swap out the beef for firm tofu or tempeh, ensuring to press and marinate them for an equally satisfying vegan dish. Frying the tofu until golden and crispy will delight you with an unexpected yet delicious vegan option!
- Crispy Noodles: Serve the beef over crispy fried noodles for an added crunch and heartiness, turning your dish into a delightful noodle experience. This twist will take your Crispy Mongolian Beef to new textures, inviting a fun and tasty meal.
- Coconut Flavor: Add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, tropical twist that will transport you to the islands! This variation offers a unique flavor dimension, making your dinner feel like a mini-vacation.
What to Serve with Crispy Mongolian Beef
Bring your dining experience to life with these delightful pairings that will perfectly complement your flavor-packed dish.
- Fragrant Jasmine Rice: The light and fluffy texture of jasmine rice soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully, creating a comforting balance.
- Steamed Broccoli: This green veggie adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of color, enhancing the meal with a healthy, vibrant touch.
- Sesame Noodle Salad: The nutty flavors of sesame oil combined with crunchy veggies create a refreshing side that contrasts wonderfully with the rich beef.
- Spicy Cucumber Salad: Refreshingly cool cucumbers with a hint of spice provide a bright contrast, elevating every bite of your Crispy Mongolian Beef.
- Egg Drop Soup: A warm, savory broth that soothes the soul, this classic soup provides comfort and each spoonful complements the beef's bold flavors.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, beautifully cuts through the richness of the beef, making each bite feel refreshing.
- Dark Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a silky dark chocolate mousse offers a rich sweetness that rounds out your meal perfectly after the savory main course.
Crispy Mongolian Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right flank steak?
Absolutely! When selecting flank steak, look for cuts that are bright red without any dark spots; the meat should feel firm to the touch. Ensure there is minimal marbling so you achieve that tender, juicy result without excess fat.
What is the best way to store leftover Crispy Mongolian Beef?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the rich flavors and keep the meat fresh. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid excess moisture capturing inside.
Can I freeze Crispy Mongolian Beef?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, let the Crispy Mongolian Beef cool, then portion it out. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture intact.
What should I do if the beef isn't crispy?
If your beef doesn't turn out crispy, it could be due to a few key factors! Ensure you're heating the oil to about 350°F (175°C) before adding the beef strips. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it lowers the oil temperature. If needed, fry in batches for that perfect crunch!
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! To make your Crispy Mongolian Beef gluten-free, simply swap regular soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative, like tamari. You can also use a cornstarch coating as it is naturally gluten-free. Check all ingredients for hidden gluten to ensure a stress-free meal!
Can pets eat leftover crispy beef?
Not recommended! While plain cooked beef can be safe for dogs, the sauce used in Crispy Mongolian Beef contains ingredients like soy sauce and garlic, which are not safe for pets. Make sure to keep your leftovers out of reach of furry friends.
Crispy Mongolian Beef That'll Make You Ditch Fast Food Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips, approximately ¼ inch thick.
- Coat the steak strips with cornstarch, ensuring they are thoroughly covered. Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Fry the coated steak strips in a single layer for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and browned.
- Mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a separate bowl until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour sauce over the fried beef in the skillet, reduce heat, and stir gently for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with green onions and optional sesame seeds, and serve hot.
Leave a Reply