Mongolian beef is known for its tender slices of beef coated in a sticky, savory-sweet sauce. The good news? You can make this restaurant-style favorite at home with minimal ingredients and almost no effort. This version is quick, affordable, and beginner-friendly — the ideal recipe for busy weeknights.
🥩 Ingredients
For the Beef
1 lb flank steak (sirloin also works)
¼ cup cornstarch
2–3 tbsp oil (for frying)
For the Sauce
¾ cup soy sauce
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup water
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
For Serving
Green onions, sliced
Rice or noodles
👩🍳 How to Make It (Super Quick!)
1. Prep the Beef
Slice the beef thinly against the grain.
Toss in cornstarch until well coated.
Let sit for 5 minutes — this helps the beef crisp up.
2. Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, combine:
soy sauce
brown sugar
water
garlic
ginger
Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
3. Fry the Beef
Heat oil in a skillet or wok.
Cook the beef in batches until browned and crispy.
Remove and drain excess oil.
4. Combine
Pour the sauce over the cooked beef in the pan.
Stir to coat and simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Serve
Top with green onions and enjoy over:
steamed rice
jasmine rice
rice noodles
stir-fried vegetables
🌟 Tips for Busy Days
Shortcut slicing: Freeze beef for 10–15 minutes for easier thin slices.
Healthier option: Stir-fry instead of deep-frying.
Thicker sauce? Add 1 tsp cornstarch dissolved in water.
Gluten-free: Sub tamari for soy sauce.
🌶️ Flavor Variations
Try adding:
Broccoli
Snow peas
Bell peppers
Chili oil for spice
Sesame seeds for crunch
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This Easy Mongolian Beef Recipe for Busy Days gives you the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors without the hassle. It’s simple, fast, and tastes better than eout — ideal for busy families, students, or anyone who loves bold flavors with minimal prep.