Sticky Mongolian Beef -

Sticky Mongolian Beef is a sweet and savory, easy-to-make dish that offers the perfect combination of flavors and textures. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a special treat for family gatherings. The thinly sliced beef marinates beautifully, and when tossed in a sticky sauce, it transforms into a mouthwatering meal that you’ll love serving over rice or cauliflower rice. Let’s dive into the recipe so you can whip up this delightful dish at home!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Sticky Mongolian Beef recipe strikes a great balance between sweet and savory notes, creating a flavor profile that is incredibly satisfying. With a beautiful glaze that clings to tender beef, every bite is packed with umami goodness. It’s not just a quick dish; it’s also customizable to suit dietary preferences, such as using keto-friendly sweeteners or serving it over cauliflower rice to cut carbs. Plus, it’s an excellent way to impress your friends and family with your cooking skills without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare Sticky Mongolian Beef. They are simple and easy to find, making this recipe accessible for anyone to try out.

For the beef:
1 lb (450g) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium or tamari for keto)
1 tbsp cornstarch (or xanthan gum for keto)
1 tbsp oil (avocado or vegetable)
For the sauce:
1/3 cup soy sauce or tamari
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup brown sugar (or brown monk fruit/erythritol for keto)
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1–2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
1 tsp sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the beef: Start by tossing the sliced beef in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and cornstarch (or xanthan gum). Ensure every piece is well coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the beef to absorb the flavors and tenderize.

Step 2: Prepare the sauce: While the beef is marinating, take a separate bowl and mix together the remaining soy sauce, water, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red chili flakes. Set aside this mixture, as it will become the delicious sauce for your beef.

Step 3: Cook the beef: Heat the oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef slices in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook each batch for about 2-3 minutes, until browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Simmer the sauce: In the same pan, pour in the sauce mixture and bring it to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This allows all the ingredients to meld together and creates that signature sticky texture.

Step 5: Combine: Add the cooked beef back into the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat the beef thoroughly in the sticky sauce. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes so the flavors can infuse the meat.

Step 6: Serve: Serve your Sticky Mongolian Beef over steamed white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For an added touch, garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired, and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Sticky Mongolian Beef

Slice the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness.
For a more intense flavor, let the beef marinate for up to an hour.
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.
Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sugar or sweetener you use.
Experiment with different types of protein such as chicken or tofu for variations of this dish.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the beef and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge before cooking. This makes it easier to whip up the dish when you’re ready.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely! By substituting brown sugar with brown monk fruit or erythritol, and adjusting the soy sauce to low-sodium or tamari, you can easily make this recipe keto-friendly.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, while flank steak and sirloin are preferred cuts for their tenderness, you can also use ribeye or skirt steak. Just remember to slice it thinly to promote tenderness.

What can I serve with this Sticky Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even stir-fried vegetables for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it with salad for a lighter option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Sticky Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any weeknight dinner rotation. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. Don’t forget to customize it to your liking, whether it’s adjusting the sweetness or adding your favorite veggies. Give this recipe a try; it might just become a new family favorite!