Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a dish that brings together the rich flavors of Asian cuisine in a simple and satisfying way. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, be it a busy weeknight or a special family gathering. The slow cooker allows the flank steak to become incredibly tender while soaking up the delicious garlic and ginger-infused sauce. With minimal prep time, you can enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones without the hassle of constant monitoring.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do all the work.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates an irresistible sweet-savory taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a double batch and save leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, making dinner time stress-free.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, it allows for hands-off cooking while enhancing flavors through low-and-slow heat.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients before placing them in the slow cooker.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.

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.
2. This step helps create a thicker sauce later on.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

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

Step 3: Cook the Beef

1. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours until beef is tender.

Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving

1. Just before serving, stir in green onions to add freshness and flavor.
2. Serve hot over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delightful Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the beef over fluffy steamed rice for a classic combination that soaks up the savory sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, spoon the beef into crisp lettuce leaves. Add some shredded carrots for extra crunch.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef with cooked noodles, such as lo mein or rice noodles, for a filling dish that’s packed with flavor.

Topped with Green Onions

• Garnish each serving with chopped green onions to add freshness and a pop of color to your plate.

Side of Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair with stir-fried vegetables for added nutrition and texture. Think bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.

With Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on top adds a nutty flavor and an appealing crunch to your dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, consider these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality flank steak: Choosing good quality meat will ensure tenderness and rich flavor in your dish.
• Adjust sweetness: Modify the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference; this allows you to customize the flavor profile.
• Don’t skip the cornstarch: Coating the beef in cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and gives it a glossy finish.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the beef to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices for a more flavorful bite.
• Experiment with spices: Adding red pepper flakes or hoisin sauce can give your dish an extra kick or depth of flavor.
• Serve fresh garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can brighten up the dish just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant option that absorbs the rich sauce beautifully.
2. Garlic Fried Rice: Elevate simple rice by frying it with garlic and green onions for added flavor.
3. Asian Slaw: A crunchy mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness and texture.
4. Stir-Fried Broccoli: Lightly sautéed broccoli adds color and nutrients while complementing the beef’s flavors.
5. Egg Noodles: Soft egg noodles provide a comforting base that pairs nicely with savory sauces.
6. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar make a cooling counterbalance to the rich beef.
7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a cozy start to your meal, enhancing Asian flavors.
8. Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls provide both crunch and delicious fillings that can be enjoyed alongside the beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Not using cornstarch means your beef may not have the desired thickness and texture in the sauce. Always coat your meat for better results.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking for too long can make the beef tough instead of tender. Stick to the recommended cooking times to achieve perfect tenderness.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Every palate is different; failing to adjust brown sugar can lead to an overly sweet dish. Taste and modify according to your preference.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality flank steak will affect flavor and tenderness. Opt for high-quality cuts for the best results.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping green onions or sesame seeds can take away from presentation and flavor. Always garnish for added appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• item Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• item Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot all around.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef.

How To Make Mongolian Beef more flavorful?

Using fresh garlic and ginger enhances flavor significantly. You can also add chili flakes for some heat.

Can I use other cuts of meat instead of flank steak?

Yes, cuts like sirloin or chuck roast can work well, but they may require different cooking times.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

If your sauce is thin, mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce while cooking until thickened.

Can I make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions carefully.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delicious way to bring Asian cuisine into your home with ease. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors according to your preferences. Try serving it over rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps for added crunch!

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Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, a perfect blend of savory and sweet that elevates your weeknight dinners to a restaurant-quality experience. This easy-to-make dish features tender flank steak bathed in a rich garlic and ginger-infused sauce, all cooked effortlessly in your slow cooker. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, it’s an ideal choice for busy families or special gatherings. Serve this versatile dish over rice, noodles, or in crisp lettuce wraps to suit any palate. Enjoy delicious leftovers too; it’s perfect for meal prep!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 pounds flank steak (thinly sliced)
• 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
• Green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Toss flank steak with cornstarch in a mixing bowl until evenly coated.
2. Place coated steak in the slow cooker and 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 the beef is tender.
4. Stir in green onions just before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours on HIGH (or up to 5 hours on LOW)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg