Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe is a dish that has become a staple in my home. The first time I tasted this sweet and tender beef was at a local Asian restaurant. I couldn’t get enough of it. After trying to replicate that flavorful dish at home, I discovered that using a slow cooker made it even easier and more delicious. The beef becomes so tender, and the flavors blend beautifully over time.
Why Use a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker is an absolute game-changer for busy folks. You toss everything in the pot, set it, and forget it for hours. This is perfect for those days where time isn’t on your side. I love knowing that at the end of a long day, a home-cooked meal is waiting for me.
The low and slow cooking method allows the flavors of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar to meld perfectly with the beef, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Sure beats those takeout boxes!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Servings: 6 servings
Beef Ingredients:
- 2 lbs flank steak, sliced thin against the grain
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp minced ginger
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
Cornstarch Slurry Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Making this dish is as easy as it gets. Just follow these simple steps to get started!
- Prep the Beef: Start by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. This makes it tender and easy to chew.
- Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger. This sweet and savory sauce is the heart of the dish.
- Add to Slow Cooker: Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over it.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours. The longer you cook, the more tender the beef will be.
- Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and water in a bowl. Stir this slurry into the beef mixture to thicken the sauce.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
To make this dish even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Quality Meat: Choose good-quality flank steak for the best results. It’s tender and absorbs flavors well.
- Slicing Technique: Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Ingredients Matter: Fresh minced garlic and ginger make a huge difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Slurry: This step thickens the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the beef.
Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is how versatile it is. Here are a few serving ideas that I enjoy:
- Serve with Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice absorbs the flavorful sauce wonderfully.
- Add Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or sautéed snap peas make tasty sides.
- Wrap It Up: Use lettuce leaves to make fresh wraps for a lighter option.
- Noodles for Change: Serve the beef over steamed noodles or chow mein for something different.
Storing Leftovers
I rarely have leftovers, but if I do, they store well. Here are my tips:
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container. It will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: You can freeze the beef for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date!
- Reheat: Heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.
Questions About Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Can I Use Another Cut of Beef?
Yes! While flank steak is traditional, you can use sirloin or even chuck roast. Just adjust the cooking time, as some cuts may require longer cooking.
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like a kick, add red pepper flakes or a bit of Sriracha to your sauce mixture.
What If I Don’t Have a Slow Cooker?
You can make this dish on the stovetop too. Just cook it on low heat in a pot and follow the rest of the instructions. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Great Side Dishes to Pair with Mongolian Beef
If you want to complete your meal, consider pairing your Mongolian beef with these tasty side dishes:
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Fried Rice | Flavorful rice with veggies. |
| Vegetable Stir-Fry | Crispy and colorful mixed veggies. |
| Asian Slaw | Crunchy cabbage salad with sesame dressing. |
| Spring Rolls | Crispy rolls filled with veggies. |
Special Occasions for Serving Mongolian Beef
This dish is perfect for various occasions. I love to serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef during:
- Family Gatherings: Everyone loves this dish, and it’s easy to make for a crowd.
- Game Day: Serve it at parties with other snacks and watch it disappear.
- Holidays: It’s a nice change from traditional holiday meals and feels festive too.
This recipe has now become one of my go-to meals. The melt-in-your-mouth beef and easy preparation make it a winner in my home. Every bite reflects the work of a chef, but in reality, I just turned on a machine and let it do the work!