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Easy Tender Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef Recipe for Perfect Dinner

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A cozy and fuss-free slow cooker Mongolian beef recipe featuring tender beef in a sweet-savory sticky sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (680 grams) flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (optional, for browning the beef)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • ½ cup (120 ml) low sodium soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup (70 grams) packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup (120 ml) water
  • 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch
  • 34 stalks green onions, sliced thinly
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the beef thinly against the grain and set aside.
  2. Optional: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear the beef slices in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not cooked through.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), and water until sugar dissolves.
  4. Place the sliced beef in the slow cooker and pour the sauce evenly over the beef, stirring gently to coat all pieces.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until beef is tender and sauce thickened.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, mix arrowroot powder or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for another 10-15 minutes until sauce is glossy and thick.
  7. Stir in sliced green onions just before serving. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Browning the beef is optional but adds caramelized flavor and better texture. Use arrowroot powder or cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce near the end. Avoid lifting the slow cooker lid too often to maintain heat. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Add veggies like bell peppers or snap peas in the last hour for extra crunch. Adjust spice level with red pepper flakes or sriracha.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mongolian beef, slow cooker, easy dinner, tender beef, sweet soy sauce, garlic, ginger, family meal