Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. This simple crock pot recipe features tender flank steak infused with garlic, ginger, and a savory-sweet sauce, reminiscent of your favorite Chinese takeout. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is an effortless way to enjoy high-quality flavors at home. Serve it over rice or noodles, and prepare for everyone to ask for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of garlic and ginger creates a mouthwatering aroma, making this dish irresistible.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before jumping into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This essential tool allows for low and slow cooking, ensuring tender meat that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl helps in evenly coating the steak with cornstarch before it cooks.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to balancing flavors in this recipe.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes slicing the flank steak against the grain quick and easy.

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: Coat the Steak

Start by tossing the flank steak with cornstarch in a mixing bowl until it’s evenly coated. This will help create a delicious texture when cooked.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Place the coated steak into your slow cooker. Add toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, low sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and water. Stir gently to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and choose either HIGH for 2-3 hours or LOW for 4-5 hours. The goal is for the beef to become tender.

Step 4: Add Green Onions Before Serving

Just before serving, stir in fresh green onions to add flavor and color. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef over rice or noodles!

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 suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the beef over a bed of fluffy steamed rice. The rice will soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite delightful.

With Noodles

• Toss the Mongolian beef with cooked noodles for a quick stir-fry effect. Choose egg noodles or rice noodles for a satisfying twist.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh and crunchy option, serve the beef in crisp lettuce leaves. This makes for an easy-to-eat finger food that’s perfect for gatherings.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top of the dish before serving. This adds a nutty flavor and a nice crunch to each bite.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Add extra green onions as a garnish for freshness and color. They complement the dish beautifully and provide a mild onion flavor.

With a Side of Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair your Mongolian beef with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

To make your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef even more delicious, follow these helpful tips.

• Use high-quality flank steak: Selecting good-quality meat ensures tenderness and flavor in your final dish.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: Modify the amount of brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. You can add less if you prefer it less sweet.
• Add vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers or carrots into the slow cooker for added nutrition and texture.
• Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the dish during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps control sodium levels while still providing that umami flavor typical of Mongolian dishes.
• Let it rest: Allowing the beef to sit for a few minutes after cooking will help redistribute juices, enhancing overall flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

Complement your Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef with these tasty side dishes that enhance its flavors and textures.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
2. Vegetable Fried Rice: Add some color and variety by serving fried rice loaded with veggies.
3. Garlic Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed bok choy with garlic adds a refreshing crunch.
4. Asian Cucumber Salad: A tangy salad made with cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil balances out the richness of the beef.
5. Mango Salad: Sweet mango slices mixed with lime juice offer a fruity contrast that brightens the meal.
6. Crispy Spring Rolls: These savory rolls provide an enjoyable crunch and complement the soft textures of the beef.
7. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf loaded with herbs is an excellent alternative to traditional rice dishes.
8. Roasted Cauliflower: Tossed in sesame oil, roasted cauliflower brings depth and flavor to your plate while being healthy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish, but there are common pitfalls that can detract from its flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Using tough cuts of meat: Tough cuts won’t tenderize as well in the slow cooker. Stick with flank steak for optimal tenderness.
• Skipping the cornstarch coating: Not coating the beef in cornstarch can result in a watery sauce. Always toss the meat to ensure it absorbs flavors.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking for too long can dry out the beef, while not cooking it enough will leave it tough. Follow the recommended cooking times closely.
• Neglecting to stir: Failing to stir the ingredients before cooking may lead to uneven flavor distribution. Give it a gentle mix to combine all flavors.
• Not adjusting sweetness: Using too much or too little brown sugar can affect taste. Start with less sugar and adjust according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Store for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil, until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Make Mongolian Beef in a Slow Cooker?

To make Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef, coat thinly sliced flank steak in cornstarch, then combine it with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and water in your slow cooker. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours until tender.

Can I use other cuts of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or even turkey if you prefer. Just ensure they’re thinly sliced for proper cooking.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef?

Serve this dish over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with sautéed vegetables or in lettuce wraps.

Can I customize the sweetness level?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of brown sugar according to your taste preferences. You might try using honey or maple syrup as alternatives as well.

How do I ensure the beef remains tender?

Coating the beef in cornstarch and following proper cooking times are key factors. This helps create a tender texture while absorbing flavors from the sauce.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels according to your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; it’s bound to impress your family and friends!