Ingredients
Beef and Coating
- 2 lbs flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Coat the Beef: Toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch until each piece is evenly coated, which will help thicken the sauce during cooking.
- Sear the Beef (Optional): Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and lightly sear the beef slices in batches for added flavor, about 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Combine Beef and Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the beef in the slow cooker and stir gently to distribute everything evenly.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook the beef on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Add Vegetables: If using, add sliced red bell pepper during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them slightly crisp and fresh.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish the Mongolian beef with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Notes
- Slice the flank steak very thin to ensure tenderness and quick cooking.
- The sauce naturally thickens from the cornstarch coating on the beef; no additional thickening slurry is necessary.
- For a crispier texture, broil the cooked beef for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
- Pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a filling meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 4 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free