It’s time to dive into the world of flavors with our Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe. Imagine tender beef marinated in a sweet, savory sauce that wafts through your kitchen, making your mouth water and your heart sing. The aroma itself is a love letter to anyone who walks through your door, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
Every bite of this dish is like a warm hug on a cold day. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. You’ll find yourself reminiscing about home-cooked meals that brought everyone together, creating laughter and cherished memories around the dinner table. Trust me; this recipe is a flavor adventure you won’t want to miss!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The harmony of sweet and savory flavors will tantalize your taste buds
- The dish looks stunning served over rice, making it visually impressive for any occasion
- Versatile enough for meal prepping or entertaining guests, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Flank Steak: Choose well-marbled flank steak for maximum tenderness; it cooks beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still enjoying that umami magic.
- Brown Sugar: Use light brown sugar for sweetness; it balances the saltiness of soy sauce perfectly.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add depth and aroma; don’t skimp on this flavorful ingredient.
- Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger adds warmth and spiciness; choose fresh roots for the best flavor.
- Green Onions: These bright green beauties provide freshness and color as a garnish at the end.
- Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil enhances the dish’s nuttiness; go for toasted sesame oil if available.
For the Sauce:
- Cornstarch: This thickening agent helps achieve that perfect glossy finish on your sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe
Getting Started: First things first, slice your flank steak against the grain into thin strips. This ensures tenderness in every bite. As you cut, let the excitement build—trust me, this beef will be melt-in-your-mouth good.
Marinade Magic: In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until combined. The moment you mix them together, take a deep breath—the smell alone will have you dreaming of dinner.
Slow Cooking Bliss: Place the sliced beef in your slow cooker and pour that luscious marinade all over it. Give it a gentle toss to coat every piece of meat thoroughly. Now cover it up and set your slow cooker to low heat for about six hours or high heat for three hours.
Thickening It Up: After cooking time is up and your kitchen smells like heaven—seriously, who needs candles? Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the beef during the last half hour of cooking to thicken that glorious sauce.
Serving Suggestions: Once ready, serve your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef over fluffy white rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions for that pop of color and fresh flavor—your plate deserves it!
Enjoying Every Bite: Gather everyone around the table and dig in! Relish those moments filled with joy as you savor each bite of tender beef coated in sticky-sweet goodness. Don’t forget to share stories between mouthfuls—it makes everything taste even better!
Cleanup Crew: After everyone has rolled away from the table satisfied (and maybe slightly stuffed), tackle cleanup with ease since most items can go straight into the dishwasher—thank goodness!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that makes your weeknight dinners feel like festive occasions
- The flavors meld effortlessly, and you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes
- Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve tender, mouthwatering beef, start by searing the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. This step locks in flavor and juices. While that cooks, whisk together the sauce so everything is ready to go when the beef is done.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out flank steak for sirloin if that’s what you have on hand. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for a nutritious twist. Experimenting with different spices can elevate this dish to new heights!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, use low heat on the stove or microwave to keep that juicy goodness intact without overcooking the beef.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe turns out perfectly every time, remember these essential tips: Always slice beef against the grain for tenderness
- Don’t skip the searing; it adds depth to the flavor
- Allow time for flavors to meld in the slow cooker for best results
Sharing my first attempt at making this dish brings back memories of my friends devouring it like they were at an all-you-can-eat buffet. Their compliments still make me smile!
FAQs :
What is the cooking time for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe?
The cooking time for the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe typically ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low heat or about 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The exact time may vary based on your slow cooker model and the cut of beef used. It’s essential to ensure that the beef is tender and fully cooked before serving. For best results, check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking range, especially if you are using a lean cut of beef.
Can I use a different cut of beef in this recipe?
Yes, you can use different cuts of beef in your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe. While flank steak is commonly recommended due to its tenderness, you may also opt for sirloin or chuck roast. Each cut brings a unique flavor and texture. However, remember that tougher cuts might require longer cooking times to achieve the desired tenderness. Adjust your cooking time accordingly, and always check for doneness before serving.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?
Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef pairs well with various side dishes. Steamed rice is a popular choice, as it soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully. You might also consider serving it with stir-fried vegetables, which add freshness and crunch. Noodles are another excellent option, providing a comforting base for the savory beef. Additionally, garnishing with green onions or sesame seeds can enhance both flavor and presentation.
How do I store leftovers from this recipe?
To store leftovers from your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions; it will last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, make sure it’s heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe :
In summary, the Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe is a flavorful and convenient dish that combines tender beef with a rich sauce that’s easy to prepare. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Remember to choose your preferred cut of beef and adjust cooking times accordingly for optimal results. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish promises satisfaction in every bite!
Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a mouthwatering dish that features tender beef marinated in a sweet and savory sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe melds flavors beautifully in your slow cooker, creating an aromatic experience. Serve it over fluffy rice or noodles, garnished with fresh green onions for a delightful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Place the sliced beef in your slow cooker and pour the marinade over it; toss to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- In the last half hour of cooking, stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce.
- Serve over rice or noodles and garnish with green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
