Introduction
Slow cooker Mongolian beef is a delightful and savory dish that combines tender pieces of beef with a rich, flavorful sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to set it and forget it while it cooks to perfection.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 ½ pounds flank steak, sliced thinly against the grain
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
– ½ cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 green onions, chopped for garnish
– Cooked rice for serving
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes on low or 2 hours 15 minutes on high
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Slice the flank steak against the grain into thin strips approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Step 2: Coat the Beef
In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with cornstarch, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, sear the beef in batches until browned, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker once done.
Step 5: Add Sauce to the Slow Cooker
Pour the prepared sauce over the seared beef in the slow cooker, stirring to ensure the beef is well coated.
Step 6: Slow Cook the Beef
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook on high until the sauce thickens.
Step 8: Serve
Once cooked, serve the Mongolian beef over steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
Note 1: Beef Selection
Flank steak is recommended for this recipe due to its flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly.
Note 2: Flavor Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the brown sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet dish.
Note 3: Vegetable Addition
You can add vegetables such as broccoli or bell peppers in the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and flavor.
Note 4: Leftovers
Mongolian beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows flavors to meld over time, resulting in tender meat and rich sauces. It’s ideal for cuts of beef that require longer cooking times to become tender.
Searing
Searing meat before slow cooking enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction, creating a caramelized crust that adds depth to the dish.
Deglazing
Deglazing involves adding liquid to a hot pan to dissolve browned bits leftover from searing. This technique incorporates additional flavor into the sauce.
Add Layered Vegetables
Adding vegetables in layers during the slow cooking process contributes to texture and nutritional value while preventing them from becoming mushy.
Flavor Building
Building flavors involves layering ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and sauces at different stages to enhance the overall taste and complexity of the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, other cuts like flank steak or chuck roast can be used, but cooking times may vary.
Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas for added flavor and nutrition.
Is it possible to cook this dish on the stovetop?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe for stovetop cooking, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen for longer storage.
What can I serve with Mongolian beef?
Mongolian beef pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that balances savory and sweet flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Its simplicity and rich taste are sure to impress anyone at the table. By using a slow cooker, you can achieve tender beef infused with delicious sauces without spending hours in the kitchen. Overall, this recipe is not just a meal but an experience that brings warmth and comfort.
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