A beautifully plated dish of Mongolian beef and noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, served in a large bowl with chopsticks on the side.

Mongolian Beef and Noodles Recipe: Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible

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Imagine tender slices of beef coated in a glossy, savory-sweet sauce, paired with chewy noodles that soak up every bit of flavor. Mongolian beef and noodles is a quick and versatile dish that brings restaurant-quality dining straight to your kitchen.

A beautifully plated dish of Mongolian beef and noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, served in a large bowl with chopsticks on the side.
© Images Quick Fusion Recipes

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests with its balance of bold flavors and simple preparation. In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from selecting the right ingredients to mastering the stir-fry technique. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor Profile

Mongolian beef and noodles combine tender, juicy beef with a sauce that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. The chewy noodles add a satisfying texture, creating a dish that’s comforting and indulgent.

Versatility

This dish isn’t just for dinner. It’s ideal for lunch, meal prep, or even as a show-stopping addition to an Asian-inspired feast. With simple substitutions, you can customize it for dietary preferences or add your favorite vegetables.

Quick and Easy

Ready in under 30 minutes, Mongolian beef and noodles are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Minimal prep and a one-pan cooking method make it approachable for cooks of all levels.

A Cultural Connection

While not authentically Mongolian, this dish reflects the creative fusion of Chinese-American cuisine. Its bold, sweet-savory flavors have made it a favorite worldwide, embodying the spirit of comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Essential Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • Flank Steak: Thinly sliced against the grain for tenderness.
  • Soy Sauce: A savory base for the marinade and sauce.
  • Cornstarch: For coating the beef and thickening the sauce.
  • Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced for authentic depth of flavor.

For the Sauce:

  • Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the savory elements.
  • Hoisin Sauce: For a rich, umami-packed addition.
  • Soy Sauce (Light or Regular): The backbone of the sauce.
  • Water or Broth: To adjust the sauce’s consistency.

For the Noodles:

  • Udon or Lo Mein Noodles: Their chewiness pairs beautifully with the glossy sauce.
  • Rice Noodles (Optional): For a gluten-free alternative.

Substitutions

  • Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with tofu or mushrooms.
  • Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and rice noodles for the base.
  • Alternative Proteins: Try chicken, shrimp, or pork for a twist.

Tools Checklist

  • Sharp Knife: For slicing the beef thinly and evenly.
  • Wok or Large Skillet: Essential for quick and even stir-frying.
  • Tongs or Chopsticks: For tossing the ingredients without breaking the noodles.
  • Mixing Bowl: For marinating the beef and mixing the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Mongolian Beef and Noodles

Preparation

1. Preparing the Beef

  • Slice Thinly: Cut the flank steak into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, against the grain to ensure tenderness.
  • Marinate: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, cornstarch, minced garlic, and ginger. Add the beef slices, tossing to coat. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.

2. Preparing the Noodles

  • Cook to Perfection: Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a drizzle of sesame oil to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the Sauce

  • Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and water or broth. Set aside.

Cooking

1. Searing the Beef

  • High Heat is Key: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
  • Cook in Batches: Sear the beef in a single layer for 1-2 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside to avoid overcooking.

2. Making the Sauce

  • Deglaze the Pan: Add a splash of water or broth to the skillet to loosen any browned bits.
  • Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the prepared sauce mixture, stirring until it thickens slightly.

3. Combining Everything

  • Add the Noodles: Toss the cooked noodles into the skillet, ensuring they’re evenly coated in the sauce.
  • Return the Beef: Add the seared beef back to the pan, tossing to combine. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Finishing Touches

  • Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced scallions, or chili flakes for extra flavor and color.
  • Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy immediately.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

How to Serve Mongolian Beef and Noodles

  • Family-Style: Serve in a large bowl, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, for an inviting presentation.
  • Individual Bowls: Portion into bowls for a cozy, personal touch.

Suggested Side Dishes

  • Steamed Dumplings: A perfect appetizer to complement the meal.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy add color and nutrition.
  • Spring Rolls: Crispy and flavorful, they pair wonderfully with this dish.

Drink Pairings

  • Jasmine Tea: A light and fragrant choice to balance the flavors.
  • Light Beer: Crisp and refreshing, it complements the richness of the sauce.
  • Sparkling Water: Add a slice of lime or lemon for a simple and clean palate cleanser.

Pro Tips 🧑‍🍳 for Making Mongolian Beef and Noodles

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Alternative Proteins: Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu to add variety to this dish.
  • Extra Vegetables: Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to boost nutrition and flavor.

Techniques for Success

  • Slice Beef Thinly: Always slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
  • Don’t Overcook Noodles: Keep the noodles slightly al dente to maintain their chewiness during stir-frying.

Flavor Boosters

  • Add Chili Oil: A drizzle of chili oil brings a subtle heat that complements the sweet-savory sauce.
  • Use Dark Soy Sauce: For a richer color and deeper flavor, swap light soy sauce with dark soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes Mongolian beef different?

The combination of tender beef and a savory-sweet sauce sets Mongolian beef apart. Its unique balance of flavors makes it distinct from spicier dishes like Szechuan beef.

Are Mongolian noodles spicy?

Typically, Mongolian noodles are not spicy. However, you can easily add chili flakes or chili oil for a kick of heat.

What is a Chinese beef noodle dish called?

Beef noodle dishes are commonly referred to as Mongolian Beef Noodles, Beef Chow Mein, or Lo Mein, depending on the preparation style and region.

What is the difference between Szechuan and Mongolian beef?

Szechuan beef is spicier and includes numbing Szechuan peppercorns, while Mongolian beef focuses on a sweeter, savory flavor profile.

If you enjoyed making Mongolian Beef and Noodles, you might also love these recipes from our collection:

  1. Garlic Butter Steak Bites: Perfectly seared steak bites coated in a rich garlic butter sauce.
  2. Southwest Tofu Breakfast Wrap: A hearty and flavorful wrap, perfect for any time of the day.
  3. Salmon Fried Rice: A quick and easy rice dish featuring tender salmon and bold seasonings.

Quick Tip

Looking for more meal inspiration? Check out our Quick & Easy Recipes for dishes that save time without compromising flavor.

YouTube Spotlight

For a visual guide on creating a delicious beef stir-fry, check out this Tasty video. It walks you through essential steps such as selecting the right cut of beef, marinating for optimal flavor, and achieving the perfect stir-fry texture. These techniques are transferable to making Mongolian Beef and Noodles, helping you master the dish with confidence.


🎥 Watch the tutorial here and elevate your cooking game with professional tips and techniques.

Conclusion

Mongolian Beef and Noodles is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and satisfying. With its quick preparation, versatile nature, and bold flavors, it’s a dish that will impress every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or your friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Try it out and share your creations in the comments below! Don’t forget to explore more recipes on our site for endless culinary inspiration.

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