Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe for Delicious Home Cooking

Mongolian Beef is a takeout classic loved for its tender, caramelized beef coated in a sweet and savory sauce. While it’s a staple at many Asian-inspired restaurants, you don’t need to dine out to enjoy this fan-favorite dish.

With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, you can recreate this flavorful meal at home and even customize it to your own taste.

Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe will guide you through the process. By the end, you’ll have a dish that rivals your favorite takeout spot.

What Is Mongolian Beef?

Mongolian Beef is a Chinese-American dish, typically featuring thinly sliced beef stir-fried with green onions in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. The origins of the dish are linked more to Americanized Chinese cuisine than traditional Mongolian fare, but it gets its name from the use of Mongolian barbecue cooking methods popularized in Taiwan.

Its combination of simplicity, rich umami, and a delicate balance of flavors has made Mongolian Beef a hit in Chinese-American cooking.

Why Make Mongolian Beef at Home?

Cooking Mongolian Beef at home has many advantages. Here’s why you should try it yourself:

1. Healthier Ingredients – You control the amount of sugar, oil, and sodium used.
2. Quick & Easy – It takes less than 30 minutes to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Customizable – Adjust flavors, add vegetables, or spice it up to suit your taste.
4. Cost-Effective – A homemade version costs a fraction of what you’d spend on takeout.

Now that you're excited to give it a try, let's move right into the recipe.

How to Make Mongolian Beef at Home

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples or can easily be found in any grocery or Asian market.

For the beef:

• 1 lb flank steak (or sirloin, cut into thin slices)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (for coating)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the sauce:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce (optional but adds depth)
• 1 tbsp ginger (finely grated)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For garnish:

• 3-4 green onions (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Beef

• Slice the flank steak into thin strips, ensuring you cut against the grain to keep the meat tender.
• Toss the beef in cornstarch, coating each piece lightly. This step helps seal in the juices and gives the beef its signature crispy texture when cooked.

2. Make the Sauce

• Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, water, hoisin sauce (if using), ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Set aside.
• Pro Tip: Adjust the level of sweetness or saltiness to match your taste before adding it to the pan.

3. Cook the Beef

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in batches, searing each piece for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
• Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.

4. Combine Everything

• Drain excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.
• Pour the sauce mixture into the pan, simmering for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
• Return the cooked beef to the pan, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. Stir in the green onions and cook for another minute.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Spoon the Mongolian Beef over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a final touch. You’ve just made a restaurant-quality dish from the comfort of your home!

Tips for the Best Mongolian Beef

• Use the Right Cut: Flank steak works best for this dish, but sirloin or even skirt steak can be great substitutes.
• Cut Against the Grain: Slicing against the grain creates tender, easy-to-chew pieces.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the beef in batches to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Customizing Your Mongolian Beef

Want to make it your own? Here are some ways to tweak the recipe to fit your preferences:

• Add Veggies: Stir-fry broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas with the beef for added crunch and nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste for a spicy kick.
• Lower the Sugar: Adjust the amount of brown sugar in the sauce for a savory-first flavor.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

Mongolian Beef is the perfect combination of quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. From the rich layers of the sauce to the succulent beef, every bite is a symphony of sweet and savory flavors. Plus, the ability to customize and create is great for both beginners and seasoned chefs.

Bring the Taste of Takeout Home

Why head out for Mongolian Beef when you can whip up your own spectacular version at home? With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy an elevated dish without the wait or cost of takeout.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to fire up your wok and get cooking. Tag us with your creations on social media using #MyMongolianBeef, and share your success story with fellow food lovers.