Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with our Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef recipe. Bursting with savory flavors and tender textures, this dish offers a delightful fusion of ingredients that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a fan of Asian cuisine or simply seeking a hearty and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Join us on a culinary adventure as we explore the secrets behind creating this delectable dish right in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
1X (Original)
- 1 ½ pounds flank steak
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- ¾ cup soy sauce
- ¾ cup water
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
2X (Double)
- 3 pounds flank steak
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups soy sauce
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 2 cups carrots, grated
- Additional green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
3X (Triple)
- 4 ½ pounds flank steak
- ¾ cup cornstarch
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 2 ¼ cups soy sauce
- 2 ¼ cups water
- 2 ¼ cups brown sugar
- 3 cups carrots, grated
- Extra green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prep the Flank Steak: Begin by slicing the flank steak thinly against the grain. Then, toss the slices in cornstarch until evenly coated.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sear the flank steak slices until browned on both sides.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the seared flank steak slices in the slow cooker and pour the sauce mixture over them. Add grated carrots to the slow cooker as well.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve the Mongolian beef hot over a bed of rice or noodles.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Beef Substitutes: If flank steak is unavailable, you can substitute it with sirloin, skirt steak, or even thinly sliced chuck roast.
- Thickening Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix additional cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Extra Flavor: Enhance the dish with additional ingredients such as ginger, red pepper flakes, or hoisin sauce for added depth of flavor.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, substitute the brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Adjust the amount to taste, as keto-friendly sweeteners can be sweeter than brown sugar.
- Low Carb Option: Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of sweetener used in the recipe or omit it altogether for a lower carb version. The dish will still be flavorful thanks to the natural umami of soy sauce and garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe? A: Yes, while flank steak is traditional, you can use other cuts such as sirloin or skirt steak. Just ensure to slice them thinly against the grain for tenderness.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this Mongolian beef freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I adjust the sweetness of the dish? A: Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with your preferred sweetener to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef offers a delightful blend of savory flavors and tender textures that is sure to impress. With its simple preparation and rich taste, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Whether you’re following a keto diet, seeking a low-carb option, or simply craving a delicious meal, this recipe has something to offer. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of Mongolian beef!