Mongolian beef features all of the sweet, savory, and lightly spicy flavors you know and love about this classic Chinese-American dish. Cooked hot and quick in a wok on the stovetop, it also boasts a crispy exterior that pairs perfectly with the smooth and rich sauce.
Prepare the meat: Place the beef and cornstarch in a zip top bag, seal, and shake to coat. Set aside.
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl add shoyu, sugar, garlic, and ginger. Mix to combine.
Cook the beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet or wok. Add the coated beef and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Make the sauce: Turn the heat down to medium high. Pour in the prepared sauce and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Combine and cook: Return the beef to the pan. Toss to coat evenly. Add the green onions and simmer until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. ENJOY!
Notes
Tips
Cook in batches. For the crispiest beef, make sure not to crowd the pan — it will cause the meat to steam rather than sear. It’s always better to cook in small batches.
Don’t forget to lower the heat when you thicken the sauce. I cook the beef hot and quick for the best crust, but the sauce needs to be simmered more gently.
Add a touch more heat. I love spicy food, so sometimes I’ll add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the sauce. The ginger does bring a bit of spice, but sometimes I like to inject some more.
Mongolian beef bowl ideas. Start your bowl with a base of rice, then add your favorite vegetables. I love pickled veggies, bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and edamame, but feel free to get creative. Top with the sauce and the beef, plus some toasted sesame seeds!