Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that balances savory and sweet flavors, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. What sets this dish apart is the tender flank steak coated in a luscious sauce that simmers to perfection in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time and hands-off cooking, it’s no wonder that this recipe has found its way into so many homes as a comforting favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are countless reasons to make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef your new go-to recipe. First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic. This means you can get back to your daytime activities—whether it’s managing a busy job or keeping up with the kids—without the stress of dinner looming over you.
This dish is not only a budget-friendly option, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Its robust flavors appeal to both adults and kids, making it an ideal choice for family meals. And let’s not forget the aroma that’ll fill your home; it’s similar to having your own take-out restaurant in your kitchen!
"I served this Mongolian Beef for dinner last week, and my kids cleaned their plates! The flavors were incredible!" – A happy home cook
Preparing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Making Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a breeze. The process is straightforward and allows the slow cooker to do most of the work for you. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll do:
- Coat the sliced flank steak with cornstarch.
- Combine the coated beef with aromatic ingredients and sauces in the slow cooker.
- Let it cook on the appropriate setting until it’s tender.
- Stir in fresh green onions just before serving.
This simple yet delicious meal is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want a quick and flavorful dish without the fuss.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to create this delectable meal:
- 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)
For an added depth of flavor, consider using a splash of rice vinegar or replacing the brown sugar with honey.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now it’s time to cook! Here’s how to make it:
- In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced flank steak with cornstarch until it’s evenly coated.
- Place the coated steak into your slow cooker.
- Add the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic and ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Just before serving, stir in the green onions for that fresh touch.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, consider plating it over a bed of fluffy white rice or steamed jasmine rice. This will soak up the delicious sauce! Pair it with some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for a well-rounded meal. For an authentic touch, try serving it with homemade egg rolls or steamed dumplings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until warmed through. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
When it comes to safe food handling, always ensure that leftovers are cooled and stored promptly to minimize any risk of bacterial growth.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To elevate your dish even further, consider these pro tips:
- For a richer flavor, let the cornstarch-coated meat sit for about 15 minutes before cooking.
- You can swap flank steak for a chuck roast if you prefer a fattier cut.
- If you like a bit more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce.
Creative Twists
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are some fun variations:
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce and cornstarch as a thickener.
- Add in some sliced bell peppers or snap peas in the last hour for a touch of color and crunch.
- Try garnishing with sesame seeds or serving wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb take.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking times range from 2-5 hours depending on your slow cooker setting.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While flank steak works beautifully, other cuts like sirloin or chuck can also be used.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
With these pointers and the comforting recipe of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, you’ll have a dish that not only satisfies cravings but also earns a spot on your regular rotation. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced flank steak with cornstarch until it’s evenly coated.
- Place the coated steak into your slow cooker.
- Add the toasted sesame oil, minced garlic and ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir gently to mix everything together.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Just before serving, stir in the green onions for that fresh touch.