Craving takeout but want a healthier, homemade version? Then look no further! This crispy Mongolian beef recipe delivers all the delicious, savory flavors of your favorite restaurant dish, but without the added grease and hefty price tag. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. This recipe offers a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, with tender beef and perfectly crispy edges. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this amazing healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the thinly sliced flank steak to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for optimal flavor.
Cooking the Beef:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This prevents steaming and ensures a nice crispy texture. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the beef is browned and crispy. Remove the cooked beef from the pan and set aside.
Finishing Touches:
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine the flavors.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional).
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: Using thinly sliced flank steak ensures quick cooking and a tender, crispy result. You can ask your butcher to slice it for you.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the beef in batches prevents steaming and ensures a crispy exterior.
- High heat is your friend: Medium-high to high heat is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. For a milder dish, omit them entirely.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli florets, snow peas, or carrots. Add them along with the onions and bell peppers.
- Change the protein: Substitute the beef with chicken breast or pork tenderloin for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Make it a sauce: For a richer sauce, whisk together 1/4 cup of beef broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch before adding it to the skillet in the final stages.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This crispy Mongolian beef recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious way to enjoy homemade cooking without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this delicious dish and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!