Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and tender meat, perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings restaurant-quality Mongolian beef right to your dining table with minimal effort. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, it allows you to savor authentic Asian cuisine without the fuss. Enjoy a comforting meal that will impress your family and friends while satisfying those cravings for something delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, making dinner time stress-free.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of garlic, ginger, and a sweet-savory sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Healthy Choices: Using high-quality flank steak and low-sodium soy sauce makes this dish a healthier option.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, having the right tools on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Mixing Bowl
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; perfect for tenderizing meat over hours.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for evenly coating the flank steak with cornstarch before cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise slicing of flank steak against the grain for tenderness.

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)
• 1/4 cup cornstarch

For the Sauce

• 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

For Garnish

• 1/2 cup green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak

1. Toss the flank steak with cornstarch in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Place the coated steak in a slow cooker.
2. Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water.
3. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Cook Until Tender

1. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours until beef is tender.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in green onions just before serving to add freshness and color.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Serving Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef can elevate your meal experience. This dish is versatile and pairs well with various sides, allowing you to create a memorable dining occasion.

Over Rice

• Using fluffy white or brown rice provides a perfect base that soaks up the flavorful sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve the beef in crisp lettuce leaves. This adds a refreshing crunch and makes for an excellent appetizer.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef over cooked noodles, such as lo mein or udon, to create a hearty meal that embraces Asian flavors.

As Tacos

• Fill corn or flour tortillas with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef for a unique twist on traditional tacos. Top with fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Sprinkle additional green onions on top before serving for a pop of color and extra freshness.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

To make sure your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality meat: High-quality flank steak ensures tenderness and enhances flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or broccoli during cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Let it rest: Allow the beef to sit for a few minutes after cooking to absorb the flavors better.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy while hot for the best texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef can enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A healthy side that complements the richness of the beef without overpowering it.

2. Fried Rice
   Flavorful fried rice with peas and carrots adds texture and enhances the meal’s Asian theme.

3. Egg Rolls
   Crispy egg rolls filled with veggies can add crunch and variety to your plate.

4. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in sesame oil balances the savory flavors of the beef.

5. Miso Soup
   Light miso soup serves as a warm starter that prepares your palate for the main dish.

6. Roasted Cauliflower
   Seasoned roasted cauliflower offers a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with Mongolian Beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using Tough Cuts: Selecting the wrong cut of meat can result in a chewy texture. Always opt for flank steak or similar cuts that are tender and cook well in a slow cooker.
• Skipping the Cornstarch: Not coating the beef with cornstarch can lead to a watery sauce. Make sure to toss the meat thoroughly for optimal thickness.
• Overcooking: Cooking for too long can dry out your beef. Keep an eye on the cooking time; use a timer to help ensure perfect tenderness.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Every palate is different, so not adjusting the sweetness or saltiness may leave you with an unsatisfactory flavor. Taste and modify as needed.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping toppings like green onions can diminish the dish’s visual appeal and freshness. Don’t forget to garnish before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place beef in a covered oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot. Use a microwave-safe container and cover loosely.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef that might help you perfect this delicious dish.

How do I make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef more spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking for extra heat.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute flank steak with chicken or turkey for different flavors while keeping the recipe intact.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

How do I adjust the sweetness in Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar used in the recipe according to your taste preference.

Can I prepare Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all ingredients and store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich sauce and tender meat make it appealing to everyone at the dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

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Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a mouthwatering dish that brings the rich flavors of Asian cuisine straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. This easy-to-follow recipe features tender flank steak simmered in a sweet-savory sauce enhanced by garlic and ginger, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps. Impress your family and friends with a comforting meal that satisfies cravings for something delicious without the fuss.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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)

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Instructions

1. Toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
2. Place the coated meat into the slow cooker. Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours until beef is tender.
4. Stir in green onions just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 630mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg