Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious yet hassle-free dinner, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef recipe. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come home after a long day, only to find that my dinner is practically ready.
The rich, savory flavors of the beef combined with the sweetness of brown sugar create a mouthwatering dish that my whole family enjoys. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work while I relax or tackle other tasks.
Another reason I adore this recipe is its versatility; it pairs beautifully with rice and veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, making weeknight meals a breeze.
Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your regular rotation!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
When it comes to whipping up a meal that’s both satisfying and easy, this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef recipe is a true winner. Imagine coming home after a long day to the rich aroma of tender beef simmering away in your kitchen. Yes, please!
The combination of flavors in this dish is simply delightful—savory, sweet, and just a tad bit sticky, which makes it perfect for draping over a mountain of fluffy rice. So, let’s plunge into the ingredients you’ll need to make this tasty dish.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef:
- 1 1/2 lbs beef flank steak, cut into stir-fry sized strips
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 cup soy sauce
- 3/4 cup water
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 3 medium green onions, chopped
Now, while these ingredients are pretty straightforward, you might want to reflect on a couple of things. First off, the quality of your beef really matters. Opting for flank steak is great because it’s flavorful and tender when cooked low and slow.
If you’re feeling fancy, you could even try sirloin or ribeye for a richer taste. And let’s talk about the soy sauce—if you have a low-sodium option, that might be a good idea if you’re watching your salt intake.
Finally, don’t forget about the toppings! Those chopped green onions not only add a pop of color but also a stimulating crunch that complements the dish perfectly. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Now that we’ve our ingredients ready, let’s plunge into the magic of making Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef. First things first, spray your slow cooker with some non-stick cooking spray. Trust me, you don’t want to play hide-and-seek with your delicious beef later when it’s all stuck to the bottom.
Then, grab your 1 1/2 lbs of beef flank steak, cut into stir-fry sized strips. You could even imagine you’re a culinary artist, slicing it just right for that perfect texture. In a bowl, pour in 1/4 cup of cornstarch, and let’s coat each piece of steak in it. This little step is what gives your beef that lovely, tender texture. Once they’re all coated, toss any remaining cornstarch, because we’re not making a cornstarch soup here.
Next, it’s time for the flavor explosion. In a separate bowl, mix together 3/4 cup of soy sauce, 3/4 cup of water, and 3/4 cup of brown sugar. The sweet and savory combo is where the magic happens. Add in the 2 minced garlic cloves and 1/2 cup of shredded carrot for a little crunch and sweetness.
Stir it all together like you’re creating a potion (I mean, who doesn’t want to feel like a wizard in the kitchen?). Pour this delightful concoction over the beef in your slow cooker. Now, it’s time to let the slow cooker do its thing. If you’re in a hurry, set it on high for 2-3 hours, but if you can wait a bit longer, let it simmer on low for 4-5 hours.
While you wait, you could plan your rice strategy because, let’s be real, this Mongolian beef deserves a fluffy rice mountain to rest on. When the time is up, you’ll be greeted with tender, mouthwatering beef that’s just begging to be devoured.
Before serving, sprinkle on some chopped green onions for that pop of color and crunch. And there you have it! A comforting, homemade meal that makes you feel like a culinary superstar, even if you’ve just burnt toast last week. Enjoy your creation, and don’t forget to share—unless you want to eat it all yourself, which, I totally get.
Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Substitutions & Variations
While you might love the classic flavors of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, there’s always room to get creative with substitutions and variations.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of flank steak, try using sirloin or chicken breast for a lighter twist. You can also swap in tamari or coconut aminos if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.
If you want to kick up the heat, add some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. For a different sweetness, consider using honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
You can even toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added color and nutrition. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
What makes a meal truly memorable? It’s often the perfect pairings that elevate the dish.
When I serve my slow cooker Mongolian beef, I love to pair it with steamed jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the savory sauce beautifully, creating a delightful contrast.
I also recommend adding a side of stir-fried vegetables, like broccoli or snap peas, for a pop of color and crunch.
If I’m feeling adventurous, a light cucumber salad with a tangy dressing serves as a revitalizing counterbalance.
To complete the meal, a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top adds a finishing touch that’s both tasty and visually appealing.
These sides truly enhance the Mongolian beef experience!
Additional Tips & Notes
To make your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef even more enjoyable, consider a few additional tips.
First, if you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
I also recommend letting the beef marinate in the sauce for an hour before cooking; it really enhances the flavor.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the brown sugar with a sugar alternative or reduce the amount.
Finally, don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
These simple tweaks can elevate your dish and impress your family or guests. Enjoy your cooking adventure!