Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

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Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef dish with tender meat and rich sauce
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Amazing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe You’ll Adore

Flavor-Packed Beef Dish

Food is a journey that transcends borders and cultures, and mine began in a tiny kitchen filled with the spicy aromas of traditional Mexican cooking. Growing up in Orlando, I found myself captivated by my mama’s tortilla-making skills and my abuela’s wisdom around spices that could turn any meal into a fiesta. Memories of laughter and love in those kitchens taught me that the heart of a home is in the meals we share. Today, I dedicate myself to bringing you vibrant recipes that evoke the same warmth I experienced, mixing flavors and traditions from my cherished heritage. Let’s craft enchanting dishes together that celebrate the love found in every bite!

Quick Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours (High) or 5 hours (Low)
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (High) or 5 hours 15 minutes (Low)
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired
  • Best Season: Year-round

Unique Qualities of This Dish

  • Simplicity Meets Flavor: With just a handful of ingredients, this slow cooker Mongolian beef comes together with ease, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a tender, juicy beef experience.
  • Comforting Experience: The rich sweet-savory profile of this dish warms the heart and soul. Its delightful and aromatic sauce is perfect for drenching tender beef and pairs beautifully with a bowl of rice or noodles.
  • Versatile and Customizable: You can tweak this recipe to cater to your family’s tastes. Whether you want to add more vegetables or spice it up with hot sauce, the options are limitless!
  • Great for Meal Prep: This recipe is a perfect candidate for meal prepping, giving you delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day. Just imagine coming home to a comforting bowl of Mongolian beef waiting for you!

Key Ingredients

  • 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)

Essential Ingredient Insights

  • Flank Steak: A great cut for slow cooking, as it becomes exceptionally tender. Make sure to slice against the grain for the best texture.
  • Cornstarch: This will help create a slight thickening in your sauce while giving the beef a tender coating.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low sodium to control the saltiness of your dish.
  • Brown Sugar: Adjust to your taste; it balances the saltiness and adds a rich caramel note.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch until every piece is well coated.
  2. Transfer the coated steak into your slow cooker.
  3. Add the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water, then gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Cover and set your slow cooker to HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. Cook until the beef is fork-tender and bursting with flavor.
  5. Just before serving, stir in the sliced green onions for a fresh touch.

Tips for Optimal Cooking

  • Beef Choice: Flank steak works best, but you can substitute with sirloin or even chicken for variation.
  • Cooking Time: Monitor the time carefully; overcooking can lead to dry beef, while undercooking leaves it tough.
  • Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow evaporation.

Exciting Variations to Explore

  • Vegan-Version: Replace beef with tofu or tempeh and a splash of vegetable broth instead of soy sauce.
  • Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
  • Sweet & Sour Twist: Incorporate pineapple chunks in the cooker for a tropical flavor twist.
  • Regional Styles: Try adding local vegetables or spices that resonate with your regional palate for a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Mongolian beef with steamed jasmine rice or silky noodles to soak up the sauce. Fresh spring rolls with a tangy dipping sauce complement the dish beautifully, providing a light contrast. For a refreshing drink, serve with iced green tea or a simple lemonade that enhances the savory flavors.

Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

Prepare your Mongolian beef in advance by slicing and marinating the steak, adding cornstarch before cooking. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. To freeze, let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe bags, and store for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Presenting Your Dish Beautifully

To create a cozy dining experience, serve your Mongolian beef in deep bowls, garnished with plenty of sliced green onions. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nutty touch and enhances visual appeal. Set the mood with soft lighting and enjoy the lovely aroma wafting from the kitchen as you gather with loved ones.

Culinary Tips for Success

  • Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the soy sauce, sugar, or spices to match your taste preferences.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavor profile, making your dish truly stand out.
  • Slow Cooker Types: Different slow cookers may have varying heat levels, so check for doneness as you approach the end of the cooking time.

Storage Insights

For best results, cool down leftovers and transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, use a gentle heat on the stovetop or microwave to retain the beef’s tenderness and flavor.

Common Queries Answered

  • Can I use another cut of beef? Absolutely! Sirloin or chuck roast can also work for this recipe.
  • How can I make it gluten-free? Substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
  • Does it have to be cooked on low? While cooking on low yields excellent results, high heat works well too if you’re short on time.
  • What if I have leftover sauce? The sauce can be refrigerated and used as a flavorful drizzle for vegetables or other proteins.
  • Can I add veggies? Yes, snap peas or bell peppers can be added in the last hour of cooking for a colorful twist.
  • Is it suitable for meal prep? This dish is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals during the week.
  • Any suggestions for sides? A simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully.

Nutrition Information

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 8g
    Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary.

Closing Reflections

This slow cooker Mongolian beef wraps warmth, flavor, and community into one dish that evokes happy memories around the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a meal that sparks laughter and connection. So fire up your slow cooker, invite loved ones to join you, and experience the joy of sharing delicious homemade meals. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for easy access the next time you crave a comforting dish!

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Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

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  • Author: emma
  • Total Time: 195 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
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Description

A comforting and flavorful slow cooker Mongolian beef dish that’s perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch until every piece is well coated.
  2. Transfer the coated steak into your slow cooker.
  3. Add the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water, then gently stir to combine all the ingredients.
  4. Cover and set your slow cooker to HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. Cook until the beef is fork-tender and bursting with flavor.
  5. Just before serving, stir in the sliced green onions for a fresh touch.

Notes

Beef can be substituted with chicken or sirloin. Add vegetables like snap peas or bell peppers for additional color and nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 180 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Asian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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