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30-Minute Mongolian Beef Recipe

30-Minute Mongolian Beef Recipe


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4.8 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mongolian Beef delivers a quick flavor explosion from Chinese-American cuisine. Tender strips of beef simmer in a sweet and savory sauce, promising restaurant-quality satisfaction right from your kitchen in just half an hour.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1.5 pounds sirloin steak (1-inch thick)

Flavoring and Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 4 tablespoons garlic, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • Red pepper flakes or chili oil, to taste

Liquid and Coating Ingredients:

  • ⅓ cup cornstarch
  • ¼ cup canola oil
  • ⅓ cup reduced sodium tamari sauce (for gluten-free) or soy sauce
  • ½ cup water
  • 8 stalks scallions, green parts only, cut into 2-inch pieces

Instructions

  1. Slice sirloin steak into ultra-thin strips, then gently tenderize each piece using a meat mallet to enhance texture and ensure even cooking.
  2. Transfer meat strips into a sealed container, dust generously with cornstarch, and massage thoroughly to create an even, light coating that will help develop a crispy exterior.
  3. Heat canola oil in a spacious skillet over robust medium-high temperature, creating a sizzling surface for rapid meat searing.
  4. Carefully place meat slices in a single layer, allowing each piece to caramelize quickly – approximately 30 seconds per side. Work in strategic batches to prevent overcrowding and maintain optimal cooking temperature.
  5. After searing, temporarily remove meat and lightly season with salt, preserving its perfect golden-brown finish.
  6. In the same skillet, quickly sauté minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, and red pepper flakes, releasing their aromatic essence for approximately 10-15 seconds.
  7. Pour tamari, water, and brown sugar into the pan, bringing the liquid to a vigorous boil and creating a rich, glossy sauce.
  8. Reintroduce seared meat strips into the bubbling sauce, gently folding to ensure complete coverage and allowing cornstarch to naturally thicken the mixture.
  9. Finalize the dish by sprinkling chopped scallions, providing a fresh, vibrant garnish.
  10. Serve immediately atop steamed white rice, delicate rice noodles, or crisp lettuce wraps for a dynamic culinary experience.

Notes

  • Flatten steak slices evenly to ensure consistent cooking and tender texture.
  • Cook meat in batches to maintain high pan temperature and achieve perfect sear.
  • Sauce thickens quickly due to cornstarch coating on steak, creating glossy restaurant-style finish.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 516
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 576 mg
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 28 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 27 g
  • Cholesterol: 86 mg