Name: Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic; 2 tbsp fresh ginger; 2 tbsp mirin; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup lite soy sauce; 1 tsp Sesame seeds; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; ½ cup Scallions

Dive into a savory and flavorful meal with this ground Mongolian beef recipe. It's a quick and easy dish that combines the rich taste of sesame oil with sweet and spicy notes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Photos of Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be common in every pantry. You will need to find mirin and rice vinegar in the Asian section of your supermarket. These ingredients add a unique depth and tanginess to the dish.

Ingredients for Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe

Lean ground beef: This is the protein base for the dish, providing a rich and hearty texture.

Sesame oil: Adds a distinct nutty flavor and aroma.

Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic base.

Fresh ginger: Adds a spicy and warming flavor.

Mirin: A sweet rice wine that balances the other flavors.

Rice vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness.

Brown sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes the dish.

Lite soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness without overpowering the dish.

Sesame seeds: Adds texture and a mild nutty flavor.

Red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat and color.

Scallions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.

One reader, Emmott Broughton says:

This ground Mongolian beef recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish comes together quickly. The combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce is divine. It's now a staple in my weekly meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Emmott Broughton

Key Techniques for Mastering This Recipe

How to brown meat: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat, add sesame oil, and cook the ground beef until it is deeply browned. How to drain fat: Once the meat is browned, carefully tilt the pan and use a spoon to remove most of the excess fat. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves and finely chop them into small pieces. How to grate ginger: Peel the fresh ginger and use a grater to finely grate it. How to cook until liquid is reabsorbed: After adding the sauces and seasonings, cook the mixture until the liquid has evaporated and the meat looks shiny but not soupy.

How To Make Ground Mongolian Beef

Whip up this tasty ground Mongolian beef dish mixed with a sweet and spicy sauce made from mirin and spices, which offers delightful and crispy goodness.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lblean ground beef
1tbspsesame oil
3clovesgarlic,minced
2tbspfresh ginger,minced
2tbspmirin
2tbsprice vinegar
½cupbrown sugar
¼cuplite soy sauce
1tspsesame seeds
¼tspred pepper flakes,crushed
½cupscallions,chopped

Instructions

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat.
Brown the meat really deeply with sesame oil.
Once browned, drain most of the fat, then add the garlic and ginger.
Add the mirin, rice vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes.
Cook until the liquid has been reabsorbed, and the meat is shiny but not soupy.
Top with green onions, toss together, and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 421.34kcal
Fat: 26.56g
Saturated Fat: 9.15g
Trans Fat: 1.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 11.54g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.21g
Carbohydrates: 21.44g
Fiber: 0.65g
Sugar: 18.05g
Protein: 21.54g
Cholesterol: 80.51mg
Sodium: 656.54mg
Calcium: 61.93mg
Potassium: 448.73mg
Iron: 2.91mg
Vitamin A: 11.42µg
Vitamin C: 3.22mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting the Flavors

To achieve a deeply browned and flavorful ground beef, make sure to let it sit undisturbed in the hot pan for a few minutes before breaking it up. This allows the meat to develop a rich, caramelized crust, enhancing the overall taste of your Mongolian beef.

Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks

Pre-chop ingredients: Mince garlic and grate ginger in advance to save time during cooking.

Use one pan: Cook the ground beef and then add the other ingredients in the same pan to minimize cleanup.

Measure sauces ahead: Pre-measure mirin, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar to streamline the cooking process.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Prep garnishes: Slice scallions and toast sesame seeds ahead of time for easy assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe

lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and absorbs flavors well, making it a suitable alternative to ground beef.
sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil has a mild flavor and can be used in place of sesame oil, though it lacks the nutty aroma.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor profile, though it is less pungent than fresh garlic.
fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh ginger, but use less as it is more concentrated.
mirin - Substitute with dry sherry: Dry sherry can mimic the sweetness and acidity of mirin, making it a good alternative.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity level and can replace rice vinegar in most recipes.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide the sweetness needed, though it will add a slightly different flavor.
lite soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar taste profile.
sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can provide a similar texture and nutritional benefits, though they lack the nutty flavor.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add the same level of heat, though it is more finely ground.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish in place of scallions.

Plating Ideas for Mongolian Ground Beef

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the ground beef in a compact, circular mold to create a neat, professional appearance. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor and looks elegant on the plate.
Use decoration: Garnish with a delicate sprinkle of sesame seeds and a few finely sliced scallions arranged artfully around the beef. This adds both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.
Add texture: Incorporate a crispy element by adding a few pieces of lightly fried wonton strips or crispy rice noodles on top. This provides a delightful contrast to the tender beef.
Sauce presentation: Drizzle a thin line of soy sauce reduction around the plate, not directly on the beef. This adds a touch of sophistication and allows diners to control the amount of sauce in each bite.
Color contrast: Place the ground beef on a bed of vibrant julienned vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. The bright colors will make the dish visually appealing and add a fresh crunch.
Use a unique plate: Serve the dish on a dark, matte-finish plate to make the colors of the beef and garnishes pop. This creates a striking contrast and elevates the overall presentation.
Finishing touch: Add a small, edible flower or a sprig of fresh cilantro on top for a final touch of elegance. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle, fresh aroma.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making ground mongolian beef recipe

Large pan: A wide, deep pan that allows for even browning of the ground beef and provides enough space to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: Useful for breaking up the ground beef and stirring the ingredients to ensure even cooking.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Grater: Essential for grating the fresh ginger, which adds a burst of flavor to the dish.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the sesame oil, mirin, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the brown sugar and lite soy sauce precisely.
Knife: Needed for chopping the scallions into small pieces for garnish.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping the garlic, ginger, and scallions.
Colander: Useful for draining most of the fat from the browned ground beef.
Mixing spoon: Ideal for combining all the ingredients and ensuring they are well incorporated.
Serving dish: A dish to present the finished Mongolian beef, making it easy to serve.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Mongolian Beef

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for ground Mongolian beef:

Refrigerate any leftover ground Mongolian beef in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
To freeze, allow the cooked ground Mongolian beef to cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen ground Mongolian beef overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a pan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of water or beef broth to help reconstitute the sauce.
Pro tip: Portion the ground Mongolian beef into individual serving sizes before freezing for easier thawing and reheating. This way, you can grab just what you need without having to thaw the entire batch.
Consider freezing the ground Mongolian beef in a flat layer in a resealable bag. This will help it freeze and thaw more quickly and evenly.

How To Reheat Leftover Mongolian Beef

Reheat the ground mongolian beef in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensures even reheating without drying out the meat.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the leftover ground mongolian beef in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the meat from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated to your desired temperature.
If you want to add a crispy texture to your reheated ground mongolian beef, spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on the meat to prevent burning, and stir occasionally for even heating.
Transform your leftover ground mongolian beef into a new dish by using it as a filling for lettuce wraps, tacos, or burritos. Simply reheat the meat in a skillet or microwave, then serve it with your choice of fresh vegetables and toppings.
For a flavorful and moist reheating method, place the leftover ground mongolian beef in a covered dish with a small amount of beef broth or water. Heat the dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the meat is heated through and the liquid has been absorbed.

Interesting Trivia About Mongolian Cuisine

A unique aspect of this ground Mongolian beef recipe is the use of mirin, a sweet Japanese rice wine, which adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor that complements the soy sauce and brown sugar.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Recipe Economical?

This ground Mongolian beef recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using lean ground beef and pantry staples like soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic, it provides a flavorful meal without breaking the bank. The addition of scallions and sesame seeds adds a gourmet touch at a minimal cost. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $12-$15 USD.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The ground Mongolian beef recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it uses lean ground beef, which is a good source of protein and lower in fat compared to regular ground beef. The recipe also incorporates fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, and scallions, which offer various health benefits and add flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives.

However, there are some areas of concern. The recipe contains a significant amount of brown sugar and soy sauce, which can contribute to high sugar and sodium intake. Consuming too much added sugar and sodium can lead to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Additionally, the recipe lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of brown sugar by half or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace some of the soy sauce with a low-sodium broth to decrease the overall sodium content
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as sliced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to increase fiber and nutrient intake
Serve the ground Mongolian beef over a bed of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to add more fiber and complex carbohydrates
Adjust the portion size to maintain a balanced meal and avoid overconsumption of calories and unhealthy ingredients

By making these modifications, you can enhance the nutritional value of the ground Mongolian beef recipe while still enjoying its delicious flavors. Remember, moderation is key, and it's essential to pair this dish with a variety of nutrient-dense foods for a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Take on This Delicious Mongolian Dish

This ground Mongolian beef recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors. The combination of sesame oil, garlic, and fresh ginger creates a robust base, while the mirin and rice vinegar add a subtle tang. The brown sugar and soy sauce balance the dish with a perfect blend of sweetness and umami. The red pepper flakes provide a gentle heat, and the scallions add a fresh, crisp finish. Overall, it's a well-rounded dish that is both flavorful and easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Sesame Broccoli: Garlic Sesame Broccoli: Imagine the vibrant green florets of broccoli sautéed to perfection with a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This side dish brings a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that pairs exquisitely with the savory notes of the ground Mongolian beef.

Ginger Carrot Slaw: Ginger Carrot Slaw: Picture a refreshing carrot slaw, finely shredded and tossed with a zesty ginger dressing. The crisp texture and tangy taste provide a perfect contrast to the rich and umami-packed beef dish, making every bite a delightful experience.

Coconut Jasmine Rice: Coconut Jasmine Rice: Envision fluffy jasmine rice infused with the subtle sweetness of coconut milk. This aromatic side dish not only complements the bold flavors of the Mongolian beef, but also adds a creamy and slightly sweet element to the meal.

Miso Soup: Miso Soup: Think of a warm bowl of miso soup, with its delicate balance of umami-rich miso paste, tofu, and seaweed. This comforting soup serves as a soothing companion to the hearty and flavorful ground beef entrée.

Mango Cucumber Salad: Mango Cucumber Salad: Visualize a refreshing salad made with juicy mango slices and crisp cucumber rounds, tossed in a light lime dressing. The sweet and tangy flavors of this salad provide a delightful contrast to the savory Mongolian beef, making it a perfect palate cleanser.

Similar Recipes to Try Next

Korean Beef Bowls: Imagine a bowl filled with savory, sweet, and spicy ground beef topped with scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice and add a side of kimchi for an authentic Korean experience.

Thai Basil Beef: This dish features ground beef stir-fried with fragrant Thai basil, garlic, and chilies. Serve it with jasmine rice and a fried egg on top for a complete meal that bursts with flavor.

Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry: A classic takeout favorite, this recipe combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli florets in a savory soy sauce and ginger sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Szechuan Beef: Spice up your dinner with this fiery Szechuan beef recipe. Thinly sliced beef is cooked with Szechuan peppercorns, garlic, and chilies. Serve it with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Beef Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, try these beef lettuce wraps. Ground beef is cooked with hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and water chestnuts. Serve it in crisp lettuce leaves and top with shredded carrots and scallions.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Dish

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful start to any meal. Imagine portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is rich and creamy, providing a perfect contrast to the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a crispy, golden finish. These bite-sized delights are perfect for whetting your appetite.

Shrimp Cocktail: Shrimp Cocktail is a classic appetizer that never fails to impress. Picture succulent shrimp poached to perfection and served chilled. The shrimp are accompanied by a tangy cocktail sauce made with ketchup, horseradish, and a hint of lemon juice. This refreshing starter is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate at its core. This decadent treat pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added twist, sprinkle some sea salt on top to enhance the flavor profile. Serve it warm to experience the full effect of the gooey center.

Mango Sticky Rice: Delight in the tropical flavors of mango sticky rice. This dessert combines sweet, ripe mangoes with creamy coconut milk infused sticky rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for a bit of crunch. It's a refreshing and satisfying way to end any meal, especially during warmer months.

Why trust this Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional Mongolian beef, using lean ground beef for a quicker, weeknight-friendly meal. The combination of sesame oil, fresh ginger, and garlic creates a rich, aromatic base, while mirin and rice vinegar add depth and balance. The brown sugar and soy sauce provide a perfect blend of sweetness and umami. Topped with fresh scallions and a hint of red pepper flakes, this dish is both flavorful and satisfying. Trust this recipe for its authentic taste and ease of preparation.

Share your thoughts on the Ground Mongolian Beef Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to enhance this delicious dish!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you might need to add a bit more sesame oil to keep it from drying out.

How do I store leftovers?

Just pop the leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They should be good for about 3-4 days. Reheat in a pan or microwave when you're ready to eat.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Sure thing! If you like it hot, just add more red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha. Adjust to your taste.

What can I serve this with?

This dish goes great with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles. You can also add a side of steamed veggies like broccoli or snap peas.

Do I have to use fresh ginger and garlic?

Fresh ginger and garlic give the best flavor, but if you're in a pinch, you can use ground ginger and garlic powder. Just use about 1 teaspoon of each.