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Mongolian Beef is a delicious dish that combines tender pieces of shaved beef steak with a savory sauce that’s both sweet and slightly spicy. Using shaved beef makes this recipe quick and easy; therefore, it is perfect for a weeknight dinner. In this guide, you will learn how to create a mouthwatering Mongolian Beef dish, along with tips for serving and variations. Moreover, this recipe is not only straightforward but also offers flexibility in terms of ingredients, allowing you to customize it to your taste.
Ingredients for Shaved Beef Steak Recipes
To make this delicious Mongolian Shaved Beef recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb shaved beef steak (flank steak or sirloin works well)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2-3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch combined with 2 tablespoons of water (used for thickening)
Essential Equipment for Shaved Beef Steak Recipes
Before you begin, ensure that you have the following equipment:
- A large bowl for marinating
- A whisk for mixing sauces
- A skillet or wok for cooking
- A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring
- A cutting board and knife for chopping green onions
Preparation Steps for Shaved Beef Steak Recipes
Step 1: Marinating the Shaved Beef Steak
- Prepare the Marinade: First, in a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk until well combined.
- Add the Beef: Next, place the shaved beef steak in the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Allow it to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes.This step assists in softening the beef and enriching it with flavor.
Step 2: Preparing the Sauce for Shaved Beef Steak
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes. Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved.
- Thicken the Sauce: Then, in a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. After that, add this mixture to the sauce and stir well. This will aid in thickening the sauce as it cooks.
Step 3: Cooking the Shaved Beef Steak
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, warm the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Cook the Beef: Add the marinated shaved beef steak to the skillet in a single layer. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes without stirring to achieve a good sear. After that, stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked beef in the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef evenly.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish: Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
Serving Suggestions for Shaved Beef Steak Recipes
Mongolian Shaved Beef is best served hot and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- Over Rice: Serve the shaved beef steak over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Noodles: Alternatively, toss the beef with cooked noodles (like lo mein or rice noodles) for a hearty meal.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, consider serving the beef in crisp lettuce leaves with additional toppings like shredded carrots and cucumbers.
Tips and Variations for Shaved Beef Steak Recipes
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will significantly enhance the flavor.
- Adjust Heat: If you prefer more spice, modify the amount of red pepper flakes accordingly.
- Slice Against the Grain: When using whole cuts of beef, ensure you slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: You might want to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.
- Spicy Mongolian Beef: Alternatively, incorporate spicy sauce or chili paste for an added kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Frequently Asked Questions about Shaved Beef Steak Recipes
Can I use other types of beef?
Certainly! You may opt for different cuts of beef, such as flank steak or sirloin.. Just make sure to slice them thinly to mimic the shaved beef steak texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply swap the beef for tofu or tempeh, and adjust the marinade and sauce accordingly.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef a few hours in advance or overnight for deeper flavor. Just cook it fresh right before serving.
What can I serve with Mongolian Beef?
Consider serving it with steamed rice, fried rice, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Easy Mongolian Shaved Beef Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort. With its sweet and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it over rice or in lettuce wraps, this dish is versatile, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection. Enjoy your cooking!