Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in just 30 minutes. This recipe stands out because it combines tender beef with a rich sauce, offering an experience that rivals takeout. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of only 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even with vegetables for a complete meal that suits all preferences.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in the Instant Pot means fewer dishes to wash afterward, making your cooking experience hassle-free.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking; you can easily make extra servings for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Instant Pot Mongolian Beef efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Medium mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: This multi-functional appliance allows you to cook quickly under pressure while retaining moisture and flavor.
• Sharp Knife: A good knife makes slicing the flank steak easy and precise, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for prepping your ingredients.

Ingredients

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef cooks up in under 30 minutes. This sweet, flavorful Asian-style beef is so much better than takeout and so easy to make.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds flank steak
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
– 3/4 cup dark brown sugar (you can use light brown sugar instead)
– 1/2 cup low sodium beef broth
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
– 3 garlic cloves (minced)
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– 3 green onions (sliced)
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

How to Make Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak

1. Cut flank steak against the grain into thin slices.
2. Cut longer slices in half so that they are bite-sized.

Step 2: Coat the Steak

1. Place flank steak slices in a medium bowl.
2. Add cornstarch and stir until evenly coated.
3. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the cornstarch to adhere.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In another medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes.
2. Stir well until all ingredients are mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Sear the Steak

1. Turn Instant Pot to Saute mode.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil; once hot, sear flank steak in batches until browned on both sides.
3. Avoid crowding the pot; add more oil if needed between batches.
4. Hit Cancel on the Instant Pot when done.

Step 5: Pressure Cook

1. Return all seared flank steak back into the Instant Pot.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef.
3. Secure lid and set to Manual (High Pressure) for 10 minutes; ensure valve is in sealing position.

Step 6: Release Pressure

1. When cooking time is complete, perform a quick pressure release carefully.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

1. Stir in sliced green onions just before serving.
2. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for garnish and serve with rice or your choice of side dish.

Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Mongolian Beef!

How to Serve Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly, making each bite delightful.

Over Noodles

• Serve the beef over cooked noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal. Udon or rice noodles work especially well.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Spoon the beef mixture into fresh lettuce leaves for a fun and healthy twist. Add some crunchy veggies for extra texture.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pairing with stir-fried vegetables not only adds color but also boosts nutritional value. Consider bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Portion the beef into meal prep containers alongside your choice of grains and veggies for quick lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot Mongolian Beef, consider these helpful tips.

• Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the flank steak against the grain ensures tender bites, making it easier to chew.

• Allow Coating Time: Letting the cornstarch sit on the steak for 10 minutes helps create a nice crust during searing, enhancing flavor and texture.

• Don’t Overcrowd: Searing in batches prevents steaming and allows each piece to brown beautifully. This step is crucial for flavor development.

• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar based on your taste preference; less sugar will yield a more savory dish.

• Garnish Generously: Adding green onions and sesame seeds not only enhances presentation but also contributes fresh flavors that brighten up the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot Mongolian Beef can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice complements the beef well; toss in some peas and carrots for added color and nutrients.

2. Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli with garlic adds crunch and balances out the sweetness of the beef.

3. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Mongolian beef.

4. Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these green beans add an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with your main dish.

5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf with herbs can be a wholesome alternative to rice, providing extra protein and fiber.

6. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate.

7. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works as an excellent base, soaking up all those wonderful sauces.

8. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with veggies are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from your beef dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Instant Pot Mongolian Beef can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the cornstarch: Not coating the beef with cornstarch can lead to a less tender texture. Ensure each piece is well-coated for optimal tenderness.
• Overcrowding the pot: Adding too much beef at once may prevent proper searing. Sear in batches to achieve that perfect brown crust.
• Ignoring the resting time: Failing to let the beef rest after cooking can result in tougher meat. Allowing it to rest helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
• Not using low-sodium soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can make your dish overly salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for better flavor balance.
• Forgetting to seal the valve: If the valve is not in sealing position, pressure won’t build up properly. Double-check before starting cooking.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping green onions and sesame seeds means missing out on added flavor and texture. Always finish your dish with these toppings.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

• Use a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Instant Pot Mongolian Beef

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in a covered dish until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until hot. Aim for 2-3 minutes total time depending on portion size.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Instant Pot Mongolian Beef.

What type of meat is best for Instant Pot Mongolian Beef?

Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness and flavor when cooked quickly under pressure.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast or thighs for a lighter version of this recipe while keeping the same delicious flavors.

How long does Instant Pot Mongolian Beef take to cook?

The cooking time under high pressure is just 10 minutes, making it a quick meal option!

What sides go well with Instant Pot Mongolian Beef?

Serve it with rice or noodles, and consider adding steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Mongolian Beef is a fantastic dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with tender beef. It’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite!