Name: Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz beef steak (rump, scotch or flank), sliced (sliced into 1/5" / 3mm slices); 1 tsp soy sauce; 1 tsp cornstarch/cornflour; 1 tsp vegetable oil; 2 tsp cornflour/cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 2 tbsp soy sauce (light or all purpose) (NOT dark); 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 1/2 tbsp Chinese cooking wine or dry sherry (or more chicken broth); 3 tbsp brown sugar (lightly packed); 1/4 - 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil; 1/4 cup cornstarch/cornflour; 1/2 tsp ginger, finely minced; 2 cloves garlic, crushed; 2 pieces scallions/shallots (cut into 1 1/2" / 4cm pieces on the diagonal)

Introduction to Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

If you’ve been on the lookout for a deliciously satisfying dish that’s simple to whip up at home, Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef may be just what you need. This dish strikes the perfect balance between crispy and sticky, offering a savory-sweet experience that can elevate any weeknight dinner. Imagine juicy pieces of beef, expertly coated in a rich sauce that's both flavorful and not overly sweet. Trust me when I say that once you try this recipe, you'll want to make it again and again.

Why Try Homemade Mongolian Beef?

There are countless reasons to try making Mongolian Beef from scratch, but here are a few to chew on:

Customization: Control the ingredients to accommodate your tastes and dietary preferences. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes!
Quality Assurance: You know exactly what’s going into your meal, ensuring fresh flavors and high-quality beef.
Time-Saving: With only 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

Homemade dishes can win over even the pickiest eaters, so gather your ingredients and get ready to impress! For more delicious ideas, check out this guide on stir-frying techniques to enhance your culinary skills.

Ingredients for Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

Creating your own crispy sticky Mongolian beef at home may seem daunting, but it’s all about having the right ingredients. Let’s break it down!

Essential Ingredients for the Beef and Marinade

To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, start with:

8 oz (250g) beef steak (rump, scotch, or flank)
1 teaspoon soy sauce — adds umami flavor
1 teaspoon cornstarch — for tenderizing and creating a barrier
1 teaspoon vegetable oil — helps with marinating

Key Ingredients for the Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens. You’ll need:

2 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening)
¼ cup water
2 tablespoon soy sauce (light or all-purpose, but not dark)
¼ cup chicken broth (adds depth)
1 ½ tablespoon Chinese cooking wine or dry sherry (or more chicken broth)
3 tablespoon brown sugar (for that perfect balance of sweet and savory)

Additional Ingredients for Frying and Stir-Fry

Crispy beef requires a few more staples:

¼ - 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (for frying)
¼ cup cornstarch (for coating before frying)
½ teaspoon ginger (finely minced)
2 garlic cloves (crushed)
2 scallions/shallots (cut into 1 ½" pieces)

With these ingredients, you’re set to whip up a delicious dish that’ll impress your friends and family. Happy cooking! For more culinary inspiration, check out Serious Eats or BBC Good Food.

Preparing Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

Making crispy sticky Mongolian beef at home is not just rewarding—it’s a fun way to impress your friends or family with a dish that boasts a perfect balance of sweetness and savoriness. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step so you can recreate this delicious meal effortlessly!

Marinate the Beef

To begin preparing your crispy sticky Mongolian beef, we need to start with the beef itself. Take about 8 oz of beef steak (like flank or rump) and slice it into ⅕-inch pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced beef with:

1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vegetable oil

Toss it well to coat the beef evenly and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. If you have the time, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more!

Prepare the Sauce

While the beef marinates, it's the perfect time to whip up a delicious sauce. In a separate bowl, mix:

2 teaspoons cornstarch with a splash of water (this will help thicken your sauce later)
¼ cup water
2 tablespoons soy sauce (make sure it’s light or all-purpose)
¼ cup chicken broth
1½ tablespoons dry sherry or additional chicken broth as an alternative
3 tablespoons (or ¼ cup) of lightly packed brown sugar

Stir everything together until the cornstarch is dissolved. This sauce will be the star of your dish, providing that irresistible sticky texture!

Coat the Beef for Crispiness

Next, we’re prepping the beef for a glorious crispiness. Take the marinated beef and toss it with ¼ cup of cornstarch. This coating will give it that coveted crunch. Remember, we want the beef to be light and airy, so give it a good shake-off of any excess cornstarch before cooking.

Fry the Beef to Golden Perfection

In a wok or deep pan, heat about ¼ cup of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop in half of the coated beef. Cook for about 45 seconds on one side, and then flip. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden-brown crust—about another 30 to 45 seconds should do it. Transfer the crispy beef onto a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil, and repeat with the remaining beef.

Stir-Fry with Sauce and Serve

With the beef crispy and ready, it’s time for the final flourish! In the same wok, discard excess oil, leaving just enough to sauté a bit of minced ginger and crushed garlic for flavor (about 15 seconds). Pour in your prepared sauce, letting it simmer until it thickens to a glossy finish, approximately 1-1.5 minutes.

Once thickened, toss in the fried beef and a handful of scallions, stirring well to coat everything in that delicious sauce. Serve your crispy sticky Mongolian beef over a bed of fluffy rice, or for a lower-carb option, try cauliflower rice. Enjoy!

For more tips on creating the best stir-fry, check out resources like Serious Eats or The Woks of Life for additional insights! Happy cooking!

Variations on Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

Vegetarian Option with Tofu

If you're looking to make a vegetarian version of crispy sticky Mongolian beef, tofu is your best friend! Simply cube firm tofu and follow the same marinating and frying instructions. For an extra crispy finish, coat the tofu in cornstarch before frying. This alternative retains that delightful texture while soaking up the sticky sauce beautifully.

Gluten-Free Alternative Suggestions

Craving a gluten-free meal? Swap out regular soy sauce for a high-quality gluten-free alternative like tamari. You can also use cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce, ensuring that your crispy sticky Mongolian beef retains its mouthwatering appeal without the gluten. Enjoy this dish worry-free!

For more vegetarian or gluten-free tips, check out this guide on cooking with gluten alternatives.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

For the best Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef, selecting the right cut of beef is crucial. Opt for tender cuts like rump, scotch, or flank steak. These cuts not only cook quickly but also yield a soft, juicy texture. Remember to slice against the grain, which makes the beef more tender and enjoyable.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Coating

Achieving that coveted crispy coating is all about technique. Here are a few tips to get it just right:

Coat evenly: Lightly dredge the beef in cornstarch for a thin, even coat.
Temperature matters: Ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F) before adding the beef; this prevents sogginess.
Don’t crowd the pan: Fry in batches if needed to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring each piece gets that perfect crispiness.

Happy cooking! For more tips, check out this resource on stir-fry techniques.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

Best Sides to Complement Your Dish

To enjoy your crispy sticky Mongolian beef to its fullest, pair it with some delicious sides. Here are a few ideas:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fluffy texture soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
Sauteed Broccoli or Bok Choy: These veggies add a nice crunch and vibrant color.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy cucumber salad can balance the sweetness of the beef.

For a wholesome alternative, try serving it with cauliflower rice to keep things low-carb.

Creative Serving Ideas

Elevate your dining experience with some creative touches! Consider serving your crispy sticky Mongolian beef in:

Mini Lettuce Cups: Present the beef in crisp lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld option.
Bowl Meals: Layer the beef over rice with colorful veggies for a visually appealing bowl.
Taco-Style Wraps: Use soft tortillas to wrap the beef with fresh veggies and a drizzle of sauce.

These ideas not only enhance presentation but also add layers of flavor to your meal. Looking for more inspiration? Check out The Kitchn for an array of side dish recipes!

Time Breakdown for Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

Preparation Time
Getting ready for this delightful dish takes about 15 minutes. This includes marinating the beef, which not only adds flavor but also tenderizes it for that perfect bite.

Cooking Time
The actual cooking is quick and efficient, taking around 10 minutes. With high heat and constant motion, you’ll achieve that crispy texture while ensuring the sauce gets its glossy finish!

Total Time
In just 25 minutes, you can enjoy your homemade Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef. Perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Check out the full recipe here!

Nutritional Facts for Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

When you're whipping up a delicious plate of Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef, understanding the nutritional value can help you enjoy it even more! Here’s a quick look at the key numbers:

Calories

A serving of this Mongolian beef packs approximately 371 calories. It's a hearty dish that delivers satisfaction without harming your daily intake.

Protein

You can expect about 24 grams of protein per serving! This makes it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth, especially after those post-workout meals.

Carbohydrates

With around 29 grams of carbohydrates, this dish provides a balanced energy source, making it perfect for a quick dinner option.

Whether you're meal prepping for the week or simply treating yourself, knowing these facts can help you make mindful choices. Ready to dive into the full recipe? Enjoy every bite!

FAQs about Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

What can I serve with Mongolian Beef?

To complement your crispy sticky Mongolian beef, consider serving it with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a classic pairing. For a healthier twist, try cauliflower rice or a fresh stir-fried vegetable medley! Also, a side of spring rolls or dumplings would elevate your meal. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the beef a few hours in advance or even overnight to enhance the flavor. However, for optimal crispy texture, it's best to fry the beef fresh just before serving. If you have leftover Mongolian beef, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Is it possible to freeze Mongolian Beef?

Yes! You can freeze the crispy sticky Mongolian beef for up to three months. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before storing it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in a skillet for the best results.

Conclusion on Crispy Sticky Mongolian Beef

In summary, this crispy sticky Mongolian beef dish is a delightful balance of texture and flavor, sure to impress your friends and family. Its sweet and savory sauce combined with perfectly cooked beef creates a memorable meal. Serve it with rice or cauliflower rice for a truly satisfying experience!