Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine to your kitchen. This simple crock pot recipe features tender flank steak enhanced with aromatic garlic, ginger, and a delectable sweet-savory sauce, replicating the beloved taste of your favorite takeout. Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish allows for an effortless cooking experience while delivering rich flavors that will impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce creates a mouthwatering sauce that elevates the beef to new heights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or noodles, or get creative with lettuce wraps for a tasty twist.
• Family-Friendly: A hit among both adults and kids, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a larger batch for leftovers, perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help ensure a smooth cooking process and perfectly cooked beef.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking that yields tender meat infused with flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing ingredients together without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps you slice the flank steak thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing ingredients safely.

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Ingredients

For the Beef

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

For Coating

• 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. This helps to thicken the sauce during cooking.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

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

Step 3: Cook

1. Cover the slow cooker.
2. 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.
2. Serve hot over rice or noodles as desired.

Enjoy your home-cooked Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef that’s packed with flavor and simplicity!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you prefer a classic approach or want to get creative, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the beef over fluffy steamed rice for a comforting meal. The rice soaks up the savory sauce, making every bite delightful.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, spoon the Mongolian beef into crisp lettuce leaves. This adds crunch and lightness, perfect for a healthier option.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef with cooked noodles for a satisfying stir-fry style dish. Use egg noodles or rice noodles based on your preference.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish with additional green onions for an extra burst of flavor and color. Their freshness complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Side of Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the beef with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. This adds nutrition and color to your plate.

As a Fill for Tacos

• Get creative by using the beef as a filling for soft tortillas. Add toppings like avocado or cilantro for a unique twist on traditional tacos.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

To ensure your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Using high-quality flank steak will result in more tender and flavorful beef. Look for well-marbled cuts for best results.

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. This allows you to tailor the sweetness level to suit your taste preferences.

• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and add it to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• Include Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas into the slow cooker during cooking. They will absorb flavors and enhance texture.

• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together even more.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Serving side dishes alongside your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fried Rice: A classic Asian side dish that adds texture and flavor. Consider using leftover rice for convenience.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli florets provide a healthy contrast and pair well with savory dishes.

3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the beef.

4. Sesame Noodles: These noodles complement your main dish perfectly and are quick to prepare.

5. Roasted Bok Choy: This slightly sweet vegetable becomes tender when roasted, offering a delightful addition to your plate.

6. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies make for an enjoyable appetizer or side that enhances Asian flavors.

7. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious option that adds protein and fiber while being easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

8. Miso Soup: Light and flavorful, miso soup serves as a soothing accompaniment that enhances an Asian-themed meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish, but small missteps can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Not slicing the beef correctly – Cutting against the grain ensures tenderness. To avoid tough pieces, make sure to slice your flank steak thinly against the grain.

• Skipping the cornstarch coating – This step helps thicken the sauce and keeps the meat tender. Always coat your flank steak evenly with cornstarch before adding it to the slow cooker.

• Using too much liquid – Adding excessive water can dilute the flavor of your dish. Stick to the specified water amount; adjust based on your preference for thickness.

• Overcooking or undercooking – Cooking times vary by slow cooker. Check your beef for tenderness at the end of cooking time for perfect results, and don’t hesitate to adjust accordingly.

• Neglecting garnishes – Green onions add freshness and crunch. Always remember to stir them in just before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best if consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered in a dish until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef:

How can I make my Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers while cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference for a personalized kick.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, cuts like sirloin or chuck work well. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for better absorption of flavors and tenderness.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even crispy lettuce wraps for a fresh touch.

How do I store leftovers of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer as outlined above to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is not only easy to prepare but also offers a world of flavor that resonates with many tastes. Feel free to customize it by adjusting sweetness levels or adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions—give it a try!