How to Whip Up Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (Easy Crock Pot Mongolian Beef Recipe) in 7 Simple Steps!

How to Whip Up Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (Easy Crock Pot Mongolian Beef Recipe) in 7 Simple Steps!

Have you ever found yourself longing for a delicious, hearty meal that requires minimal effort? Imagine coming home after a long day to the intoxicating aroma of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (Easy Crock Pot Mongolian Beef Recipe) wafting through your kitchen. This easy crock pot recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. In just seven simple steps, you’ll have a tender, flavorful dish that your whole family will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation that make this such a fantastic choice!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need for your meal. Feel free to tailor it to your taste!

1. Beef Flank Steak – 1.5 pounds, cut into thin strips (You can substitute with ribeye or sirloin for different flavors)
2. Soy Sauce – 1/2 cup (Use low-sodium if preferred)
3. Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup (Honey or coconut sugar can be great substitutes)
4. Garlic – 4 cloves, minced (Switch to garlic powder in larger quantities)
5. Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced (Dried ginger can work in a pinch)
6. Green Onions – 1/4 cup, chopped (You may omit or substitute with chives)
7. Sesame Oil – 1 tablespoon (Optional: use olive oil if unavailable)
8. Cornstarch – 2 tablespoons (For thickening, can be substituted with arrowroot powder)
9. Water – 1/2 cup

Optional Ingredients:

• Red Peppers – Sliced for added color and taste
• Sesame Seeds – For garnish
• Rice or Noodles – For serving alongside

Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (Saves about 20 minutes compared to traditional stovetop methods)

With this timing, even a busy weekday can allow for a delicious, comforting meal to be ready when you get home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing the flank steak into thin strips. This allows the meat to cook evenly and absorb the marinade flavors beautifully. Aim for strips that are about 1/4 inch thick for the best results.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely. This savory-sweet mixture will be the base for your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (Easy Crock Pot Mongolian Beef Recipe).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Place the sliced beef into the slow cooker and pour the marinade over it. Toss the beef to ensure each piece is coated evenly in that delightful sauce.

Step 4: Add Water

Add the 1/2 cup of water to your slow cooker to help create a moist cooking environment. This prevents the beef from becoming too dry over the long cooking period.

Step 5: Cook

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. The long, slow cooking process will result in tender beef that falls apart at the slightest touch!

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Once cooking is complete, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this into the beef mixture in the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cook on high for another 30 minutes uncovered to achieve the desired thickness.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or noodles, making it a satisfying and complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you can expect per serving (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Vitamins: A great source of Vitamin C, Iron, and Calcium

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to make it healthier or accommodate certain dietary preferences? Here are some suggestions:

• Vegan Option: Substitute beef with extra-firm tofu and use tamari for a gluten-free sauce.
• Low-Carb: Replace brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol and serve with cauliflower rice.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Make your meal even more memorable with these creative ideas:

• Plating: Serve in a bowl over a mound of jasmine rice, topped with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a lovely presentation.
• Sides: Consider pairing with steamed vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad to balance flavors.
• Beverages: A light white wine or iced green tea pairs well, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To perfect your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (Easy Crock Pot Mongolian Beef Recipe), steer clear of these common pitfalls:

1. Cutting Beef Too Thick: Ensure the beef is sliced thinly to avoid tough, chewy pieces.
2. Not Marinating Long Enough: Though slow cooking helps, marinating for at least 30 minutes before cooking enhances flavor.
3. Skipping the Cornstarch Step: Thicken your sauce to achieve that restaurant-quality coating.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers? No problem!

• Fridge Storage: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer Storage: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to retain moisture.

Meal Prep Ideas

Prepare a double batch over the weekend to ensure you have quick meals ready for the week ahead!

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Conclusion

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge to create this amazing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef (Easy Crock Pot Mongolian Beef Recipe), it’s time to get cooking! This dish not only saves you time but will undoubtedly delight your family and friends with its rich flavors and tender texture. We’d love to hear your thoughts! Try the recipe, share your experiences, or explore more delicious recipes right here!

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! Cuts like sirloin or ribeye can be used, but make sure they are sliced thin for the best texture.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it a day ahead and refrigerate; just reheat before serving.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the marinade for an extra punch.

4. What sides work best with Mongolian beef?

Rice or noodles are excellent, but steamed broccoli or a fresh salad can provide balance, too.

5. Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes! Store them in an airtight container, and they can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

By following these simple steps, you’ll create an irresistible meal that everyone will want to dig into. Happy cooking!