Name: 30-Minute Mongolian Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak, sliced against the grain (Opt for a high-quality flank steak for best results.); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (Helps create a nice crust on the beef.); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (For sautéing the beef.); 3 cloves garlic, minced (Adds flavor to the sauce.); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Adjust to taste based on desired spice level.); 1/2 cup soy sauce (Base of the savory sauce.); 1/3 cup brown sugar (Provides sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce.); 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (For garnish.); As needed Cooked rice or noodles (For serving.)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a delicious meal in just half an hour, and 30-Minute Mongolian Beef is here to deliver just that! This dish is a perfect marriage of tender beef, vibrant, savory garlic, and a sweet as well as a spicy sauce that will make your taste buds dance. It’s quick, it’s easy, and best of all, it’s incredibly family-friendly—so everyone can enjoy it together. Did you know that Mongolian beef isn’t actually from Mongolia? It’s a beloved dish that has roots in Chinese-American cuisine, reflecting the rich flavors and culinary traditions that fans adore. This recipe is out of this world and gives the perfect alternative to the usual stir-fry options in your weeknight rotation.

If you’re a fan of quick and satisfying meals, you might also want to check out our spicy Szechuan Chicken—the perfect option for turning up the heat in your dinner lineup! With that said, let’s dive into making this easy and mouthwatering 30-Minute Mongolian Beef that your family will absolutely love.

What is 30-Minute Mongolian Beef?

You might be wondering, “What’s the deal with the name ‘Mongolian Beef’ anyway?” Is it a traditional dish from Mongolia? Well, not quite. Ironically, it’s an American creation inspired by the flavors of Asia. Think of it as a delightful culinary mash-up that brings together influences from different cultures. And isn’t it funny how food can bring people together? As the classic saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this hearty dish surely wins hearts everywhere! So don’t wait any longer—give this recipe a try, and you might just convert a few skeptics into lifelong fans!

Why You’ll Love This 30-Minute Mongolian Beef

First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world! The star ingredient, tender slices of beef, meld perfectly with a mouthwatering sauce made from soy sauce, brown sugar, and a hint of red pepper flakes for a kick. But the best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Imagine the savings too! Making this dish at home costs far less than ordering takeout, while giving you all the savory goodness you crave.

Feeling a bit adventurous? Serve it up with some steamed rice or over a bed of noodles for a hearty meal! If you love Asian-inspired dishes, you might also enjoy our incredible Beef and Broccoli recipe for another quick dinner option. So why not gather the ingredients and give this delightful 30-Minute Mongolian Beef a go?

How to Make 30-Minute Mongolian Beef

Quick Overview

30-Minute Mongolian Beef is as easy as it is delicious! With just a handful of ingredients and a cooking time of around 30 minutes, you can have a mouthwatering dinner on the table in no time. The balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors creates a rich taste that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Key Ingredients for 30-Minute Mongolian Beef

1 pound flank steak, sliced against the grain
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the Beef: Start by slicing your flank steak against the grain into thin strips. Take the sliced beef and toss it with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a bowl. This will help create a nice crust when you cook it.
Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and cook it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add Soy Sauce and Sugar: Pour the soy sauce and brown sugar into the skillet, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine: Add the cooked beef back into the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat thoroughly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving over rice or noodles.

What to Serve 30-Minute Mongolian Beef With

Pair your 30-Minute Mongolian Beef with a side of fried rice or steamed broccoli for a complete meal that’s both filling and healthy. For a refreshing contrast, a simple cucumber salad drizzled with sesame oil can provide a nice crunch. You could even whip up some egg rolls or spring rolls to create a feast fit for a festive gathering! Whatever you choose, complementing this dish with these sides will ensure a flavorful and well-rounded dinner!

Top Tips for Perfecting 30-Minute Mongolian Beef

Beef Quality: Opt for flank steak, which is flavorful and tender when cooked quickly. For great results, ensure you slice the beef against the grain.
Cornstarch Magic: Don’t skip the cornstarch coating—it’s key to achieving that tender and slightly crispy texture!
Manage the Heat: Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. You can always start with less and add more to taste.
Length of Cooking: Keep an eye on the beef while cooking; overcooking can lead to tougher meat!
Stir Constantly: When making the sauce, continuously stir to avoid burning the garlic and getting that burnt flavor into your dish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), allow the Mongolian Beef to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze it—just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

In conclusion, 30-Minute Mongolian Beef not only brings an explosion of flavors to your dinner table, but it also gives you the chance to enjoy a homemade meal that’s fast and satisfying. Why settle for takeout when you can create restaurant-quality dishes at home? Try this recipe today and elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level!