Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prep the Beef
- Toss beef slices with cornstarch until evenly coated. Let sit for 10 minutes—this gives the beef a light crust when cooked.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a bowl or measuring cup, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add beef in batches and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and browned. Remove to a plate.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
- In the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the beef to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat through for another 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
🥄 Variations
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce Sweeter Version: Increase brown sugar slightly or add a touch of hoisin sauce Crispy: Double-sear beef for extra crunch before adding back to the sauce 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze cooled beef and sauce for up to 2 months Reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce ❓ 10 FAQs
What’s the best cut of beef?
Flank steak or sirloin for tenderness—slice thin against the grain. Why use cornstarch?
It gives the beef a crispy edge and helps thicken the sauce. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—make the sauce and prep the beef in advance for a quick cook later. Is this dish very sweet?
It’s mildly sweet—reduce brown sugar for a more savory result. Can I use chicken instead?
Absolutely—thin sliced chicken breast or thighs work great. What’s the difference from other stir-fries?
The sauce is more caramelized and the beef is often crispier. Can I add veggies?
Yes—broccoli and bell peppers pair wonderfully. Do I need sesame oil?
It adds aroma but can be skipped or replaced with neutral oil. How do I get the beef really tender?
Slice thinly across the grain and don’t overcook! Can I double the sauce?
Yes! Especially if serving with noodles or rice. 🏁 Conclusion
This 30-Minute Mongolian Beef is bold, comforting, and unbelievably quick. Crispy strips of beef coated in a sweet-savory garlic-soy glaze hit all the right notes. Whether you're cooking for the family or just yourself, it's a no-stress recipe that brings takeout flavor home. 🍜🥢
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a squirt of sriracha Vegetable Boost: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce Sweeter Version: Increase brown sugar slightly or add a touch of hoisin sauce Crispy: Double-sear beef for extra crunch before adding back to the sauce 🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 4 days Freezer: Freeze cooled beef and sauce for up to 2 months Reheat: Microwave or warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce ❓ 10 FAQs
What’s the best cut of beef?
Flank steak or sirloin for tenderness—slice thin against the grain. Why use cornstarch?
It gives the beef a crispy edge and helps thicken the sauce. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—make the sauce and prep the beef in advance for a quick cook later. Is this dish very sweet?
It’s mildly sweet—reduce brown sugar for a more savory result. Can I use chicken instead?
Absolutely—thin sliced chicken breast or thighs work great. What’s the difference from other stir-fries?
The sauce is more caramelized and the beef is often crispier. Can I add veggies?
Yes—broccoli and bell peppers pair wonderfully. Do I need sesame oil?
It adds aroma but can be skipped or replaced with neutral oil. How do I get the beef really tender?
Slice thinly across the grain and don’t overcook! Can I double the sauce?
Yes! Especially if serving with noodles or rice. 🏁 Conclusion
This 30-Minute Mongolian Beef is bold, comforting, and unbelievably quick. Crispy strips of beef coated in a sweet-savory garlic-soy glaze hit all the right notes. Whether you're cooking for the family or just yourself, it's a no-stress recipe that brings takeout flavor home. 🍜🥢