30 Minute Mongolian Beef Recipe
Rebecca
I have to tell you, the first time I made this 30-minute Mongolian Beef recipe, I couldn’t believe how quick and easy it was to whip up something so flavorful! Tender beef coated in a rich, sweet, and savory sauce felt like something I’d order at a restaurant but made right in my kitchen.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 30 minutes mins
- Flank steak
- Cornstarch
- Vegetable oil
- Garlic
- Fresh ginger
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Water
- Green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This ensures tender bites every time. Toss the beef in cornstarch so it gets a light coating, which will help achieve that signature crispy texture when it cooks!
Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and water in a bowl. This simple combination creates the amazing sweet-savory sticky glaze that coats every piece of beef perfectly. 👌✨
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the cornstarch-coated beef slices for 2-3 minutes per side. You want a golden, slightly crispy outside. This step is what locks in the beef’s juicy tenderness! Remove beef and set it aside. 🔥🍖
Using the same skillet (because who loves extra dishes?), lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen! 🧄🌟
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Stir well and allow it to simmer until it thickens slightly. Add the seared beef back in and toss until it’s beautifully coated in the sauce. Turn off the heat.
Plate your Mongolian Beef over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds for that final touch of flavor and presentation flair. 🌱🍛 Bonus points for adding chopsticks!
- Slice steak thin and against the grain. This is essential for achieving a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
- Don’t overcrowd your pan while searing. Give each slice enough space so it can get that great crust.
- Adjust sweetness. Prefer it less sweet? Cut the sugar slightly or balance it out with a squeeze of lime juice in the sauce.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best results. Pre-minced garlic or ginger won’t give you the same rich flavor.
Keyword 30 Minute Mongolian Beef Recipe