Restaurant-quality mongolian beef at home: pf chang’s secret recipe revealed

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Mongolian beef, a beloved dish from the renowned restaurant chain PF Chang’s. This recipe guides you through every step to recreate the iconic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Garnish:

• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

• In a large bowl, combine the beef slices, cornstarch, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix thoroughly to coat.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat.
• Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides.
• Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, ground ginger, and garlic powder.

3. Combine the Beef and Sauce

• Return the beef to the skillet and pour the sauce over it.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the beef is tender.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish the Mongolian beef with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
• Serve immediately with rice or noodles of your choice.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality flank steak for the best flavor and texture.
• Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
• Don’t overcook the beef, as it will become tough.
• Adjust the amount of sauce ingredients to your desired taste and consistency.
• Serve the Mongolian beef hot for the best experience.

Variations

• Spicy Mongolian Beef: Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Mongolian Beef: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the flank steak.
• Gluten-Free Mongolian Beef: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch.

Health Benefits

Mongolian beef is a surprisingly nutritious dish. The beef provides protein, iron, and zinc. The vegetables in the sauce offer fiber and vitamins. The dish is also relatively low in fat and calories.

Culinary Inspiration

The origins of Mongolian beef trace back to the Chinese dish “stir-fried beef with scallions.” PF Chang’s adapted the recipe and introduced it to American diners in the 1990s. The dish has since become a staple of Asian-inspired cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store Mongolian beef?

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

Can I make Mongolian beef ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce up to 2 days in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat the beef in the sauce over medium heat.

What sides go well with Mongolian beef?

Rice, noodles, steamed vegetables, or egg rolls are all excellent accompaniments.