Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef: A Delicious Comfort Meal

Tender and Tasty Mongolian Beef

Hola! My heart beats to the rhythm of Mexico’s vibrant flavors, even as I find solace in the subtleties of American cuisine. Growing up in the sunny embrace of Orlando, I often drifted into the warmth of my mama’s kitchen, where we shared laughter amidst the aroma of fresh tortillas. My abuela’s spice magic still dances in my memories, reminding me that food is more than sustenance; it’s love served with stories. While my feet are planted in Orlando, my culinary heart roams through the bustling mercados of Oaxaca, where I learned to turn every meal into an unforgettable experience. Join me as I share a delightful recipe for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, a dish that mirrors my journey through flavors and heritage, perfect for your dinner table.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours (HIGH) or 4-5 hours (LOW)
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes – 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Asian, Comfort Food
Best Season: All Year Round

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you relax or spend time with family.
Rich Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar creates a harmonious blend of savory and sweet that will tantalize your taste buds.
Tender Beef: The slow cooking process melts the flank steak into tender perfection, ensuring each bite is a comforting delight.
Versatile Garnishing: You can easily customize the dish with your favorite toppings, such as sesame seeds or fresh herbs, to elevate the presentation and flavor even further.
A Crowd-Pleaser: This mouthwatering dish is sure to impress everyone at your table, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients List

1 1/2 pounds flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup green onions (for garnish)

Ingredient Tips

Flank Steak: Use flank steak for its tenderness and flavor; it absorbs the marinade beautifully. Look for cuts that are bright red and unmarred for the best results.
Cornstarch: This ingredient is crucial for tenderizing the meat; it helps seal in moisture and flavor. Make sure to coat the beef evenly before cooking.
Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of your dish without compromising on flavor. It allows for a balanced taste profile.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep, caramelized sweetness that will perfectly contrast with the saltiness of the soy sauce. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by tossing the flank steak slices in a mixing bowl with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This coating helps to thicken the sauce and keeps the beef juicy.
Transfer the coated steak to your slow cooker; add the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir gently to combine, making sure the steak is well coated.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or on LOW for 4-5 hours, until the beef is incredibly tender and infused with flavor.
About 10 minutes before serving, stir in sliced green onions for a fresh pop of flavor and color.

Expert Tips for Success

Sear Before Cooking: For an extra depth of flavor, sear the flank steak in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes before adding to the slow cooker.
Timing is Key: If you use the HIGH setting, be careful not to overcook; check for doneness to avoid dry beef.
Taste Before Serving: Adjust the seasoning by adding a splash more soy sauce or a sprinkle of sugar if needed to fit your taste preference.
Keep It Saucy: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, and stir it in 15 minutes before serving.

Creative Recipe Variations

Spicy Mongolian Beef: Add sliced red chili peppers or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mix for a spicy kick that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
Vegetable-Filled Delight: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas into the slow cooker for added color and nutrition.
Alternative Proteins: Swap out the flank steak for chicken thighs or tofu for a lighter option that still holds onto the essence of Mongolian flavors.
Curry Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon of curry paste to give the dish an Indian twist, perfect for those looking to explore fusion flavors.

Perfect Pairings

Enhance your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef with a side of fluffy jasmine rice or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. Pair with a light, citrusy white wine or a refreshing iced tea to balance the richness of the beef. For dessert, try a light coconut sorbet to cleanse your palate.

Make Ahead & Freezer Tips

Prepare your Mongolian beef a day in advance for an even richer flavor. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months; simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Ideas

For a stunning presentation, serve the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Adding a lime wedge on the plate can enhance the flavors even more.

Kitchen Wisdom

Invest in a Good Slow Cooker: A reliable slow cooker will ensure even cooking, preventing any overcooked or burnt edges.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic can significantly enrich your dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Plan for Leftovers: This recipe is perfect for leftovers. Consider making lettuce wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch the next day.
Toast Your Sesame Seeds: If garnishing with sesame seeds, toast them lightly in a dry skillet to release their nutty flavor.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave on medium heat until warmed through, or reheat in a saucepan over low heat to preserve the texture of the beef.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, while flank steak is ideal, cuts like sirloin or brisket can also work well, though they may require different cooking times.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? Substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce? You can whisk cornstarch with water and add it towards the end of the cooking process for a thicker sauce.
Can I cook this dish overnight? Yes, but make sure to use the LOW setting to avoid overcooking the beef.
How do I know when the beef is done? The beef should be fork-tender and easy to shred. If it resists, it needs more time in the cooker.
How many servings does this recipe provide? This recipe typically serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Are there any suggested substitutions for sesame oil? If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use olive oil or vegetable oil, though it will slightly alter the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Protein: 28g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary. Consult a nutritionist for precise info.

Personal Note

Preparing and sharing this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is not just about the meal but about the love and stories that come with it. Every bite is a reminder of the joy found in cooking and sharing cherished recipes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or those you hold dear, I hope this dish brings warmth and happiness to your table.

From My Kitchen to Yours

I invite you to try this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef and explore its comforting flavors. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share your delicious creations with friends and family. Each spoonful embodies love, stories, and the magic of food. Enjoy this satisfying recipe that seamlessly blends homey goodness with vibrant tastes!

SAVE NOW