Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make, then you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef recipe has become a family favorite in my house. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough to serve at family gatherings or dinner parties. The crispy beef, combined with a savory sauce, is simply irresistible!

What I love most about this recipe is how it uses simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand. In just under 20 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; once you try this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Crispy and Flavorful: The beef strips are coated in cornstarch and deep-fried to perfection, providing a delightful crunch with every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and savory flavors of this Mongolian Beef.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add extra veggies to suit your family’s taste preferences.
• Great Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or lunch the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef, you’ll need some wholesome items that are easy to find at any grocery store. Let’s get cooking!

For the Beef

• 2 pounds (1 kg) beef tenderloin/beef chuck, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup cornstarch/cornflour
• Oil, for deep frying

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped ginger
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon hoisin sauce (optional)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch, diluted in 3 teaspoons water
• 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup green onion, chopped into 1-inch pieces

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or tofu instead of beef for a different twist on this classic dish.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious addition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more red chili flakes or some sliced fresh chilies to the sauce.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.

How to Make Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start off by tossing the beef strips in cornstarch. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. This step is crucial because it helps create that beautiful crispy texture when we fry them later.

Step 2: Fry the Beef

Deep fry the beef strips in hot oil for about 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown. Once done, drain them well and set aside. This step gives us that wonderful crunch we all love!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a saucepan, heat some cooking oil on high heat. Quickly add in the chopped ginger and garlic, stirring them for about 10 seconds until fragrant. Then add soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, and optional hoisin sauce. We want to bring this mix to a quick boil so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Sweeten It Up

Now it’s time to add in our brown sugar and diluted cornstarch. Mixing these in thoroughly will help thicken our sauce and balance out all those lovely flavors.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Next, add in those crispy beef strips and let them cook in the sauce for about two minutes. This allows the beef to soak up all that delicious flavor while maintaining its crispy texture.

Step 6: Finish with Green Onions

Lastly, toss in your chopped green onions and give it another minute of cooking time. These will add freshness and color to our dish!

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve your Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef hot over a bed of fluffy rice. Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal with friends and family!

I hope you enjoy making—and eating—this delicious recipe as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef

Making Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using tenderloin or chuck ensures that your beef is juicy and tender. The marbling in these cuts adds flavor and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Coat evenly with cornstarch: A thorough coating of cornstarch not only gives the beef its crispy exterior but also helps to lock in moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch!
• Fry in batches: If you’re frying a large amount, do it in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too much, which can lead to soggy beef.
• Adjust the sweetness: Feel free to tweak the brown sugar according to your taste preferences. A little less sugar makes it less sweet while still keeping the balance of flavors intact.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve your Mongolian Beef hot right after cooking. The longer it sits, the less crispy it will become.

How to Serve Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef

When it comes to serving Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef, presentation is key! Here are some ideas to make your meal not just tasty but visually appealing as well.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and a lovely crunch.
• Fresh cilantro: A few sprigs of fresh cilantro will brighten up your dish and add a burst of color.
• Sliced red chili: For those who like extra heat, thin slices of red chili can provide both spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: This fragrant rice serves as a perfect base for soaking up the delicious sauce and complements the bold flavors of the beef.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas stir-fried with a splash of soy sauce adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
• Egg fried rice: Elevate regular rice by frying it with eggs and peas for added texture and taste—it’s a great way to use leftover rice!
• Crisp cucumber salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Mongolian beef.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy creating this deliciously crispy dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it not only a delicious choice for dinner but also a convenient option for busy days ahead. You can prepare the ingredients in advance or store leftovers to enjoy later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Mongolian beef to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the cooked beef into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

What makes this Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef so special?

This recipe stands out due to its combination of crispy beef strips coated in a savory sauce that balances sweetness and tanginess. The simple cooking process ensures you can whip it up quickly, making it perfect for any night of the week!

Can I make Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef with other meats?

Absolutely! While this recipe uses beef tenderloin or chuck, you can substitute chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I ensure my Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef stays crispy?

To maintain crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan during frying. Fry in small batches and ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the beef. This helps create that delightful crunch!

Is there a healthier option for Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef?

You can reduce calories by using less sugar or opting for low-sodium soy sauce. Additionally, consider baking instead of deep-frying for a lighter version while still enjoying that signature flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Easy Crispy Mongolian Beef recipe as delightful as I do! It’s quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress your family or friends at dinner. Enjoy making this dish; I can’t wait for you to share your experience with it. Happy cooking!