1. Introduction
Mongolian Beef – a dish that promises an explosion of flavors with every bite! This recipe brings the exotic tastes of Mongolian cuisine right into your kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy strips of beef glazed in a savory-sweet sauce, infused with hints of ginger, garlic, and a gentle heat from dried red chilis. It’s a dish that balances simplicity with a gourmet feel, perfect for those evenings when you crave something special yet manageable. In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of creating this mouth-watering dish, ensuring you can recreate the magic of Mongolian Beef in your own home.
2. Ingredients
- ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 ½ tablespoons water
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak, thinly sliced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- Vegetable oil (avocado or peanut preferred), about 6 tablespoons
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 5 dried red chilis
- 2 teaspoons garlic, pressed
- 4 green onions, sliced into 1” pieces
- Rice, for serving
3. Directions
- Prepare the sauce by whisking together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Set aside.
- Season the steak slices with salt, pepper, and coat with cornstarch.
- Heat a wok or heavy-bottom pan over high heat with 4 tablespoons of oil.
- Sear the steak in batches until browned, then set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, add 2 tablespoons of oil, and fry the chilis for 30 seconds.
- Add ginger and garlic, stir for 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Return the beef to the pan, add green onions and the sauce, toss to coat.
- Serve over white rice.
4. How to Prepare
Ensure that the steak is sliced very thinly against the grain for tenderness. When cooking, don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s crucial for achieving a good sear on the beef. Be attentive when frying the chilis, ginger, and garlic to avoid burning, as they are key to the dish’s flavor profile.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cook: 10 minutes
- Total: 25 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
7. FAQs
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef? A: Yes, though flank steak is preferred for its flavor and tenderness, sirloin or tenderloin can be used as substitutes.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce.
Q: Can I adjust the spice level? A: Yes, the amount of dried red chilis can be increased or decreased based on your preference.
Q: How can I ensure the beef stays tender? A: Slice the beef thinly and do not overcook it. Searing it quickly over high heat helps.
Q: What can I serve with Mongolian Beef? A: It pairs well with white rice, noodles, or even a side of steamed vegetables.
8. Conclusion
Mongolian Beef is more than just a dish; it’s a journey through a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. Its combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Remember, the key to perfect Mongolian Beef lies in the preparation of the beef and the balance of flavors in the sauce. So, grab your wok and let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!