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Mongolian Beef With Broccoli - A Savory, Weeknight Stir-Fry

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb (450 g) flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 3 cups broccoli florets, bite-size
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch (for beef)
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado), plus more as needed
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
  • 3 green onions, sliced (whites and greens separated)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup water or low-sodium beef broth
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1–2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional, for finish)
  • Steamed jasmine rice or noodles
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the beef: Freeze the steak for 20–30 minutes to firm it up. Slice thinly against the grain. Toss with 3 tablespoons cornstarch until lightly coated. Set aside while you prep the rest.
  2. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, water/broth, brown sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, rice vinegar, and chili-garlic sauce if using. Keep it nearby.
  3. Par-cook the broccoli: Blanch florets in boiling salted water for 1 minute, then drain and shock in cold water. Pat dry. Alternatively, stir-fry the broccoli in a teaspoon of oil for 2–3 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Remove and set aside.
  4. Heat the pan: Use a large skillet or wok. Add 1 tablespoon oil over medium-high to high heat until shimmering. Work in batches for the beef—crowding will steam it.
  5. Sear the beef: Add a single layer of beef and let it sear undisturbed for 45–60 seconds, then stir-fry another minute until mostly browned but not fully cooked. Remove to a plate. Repeat with remaining oil and beef.
  6. Sauté aromatics: Lower heat slightly. Add garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir for 20–30 seconds until fragrant—do not burn.
  7. Build the sauce: Give the sauce a quick stir, then pour it into the pan. Let it bubble for 30–60 seconds until it starts to thicken and turn glossy.
  8. Combine: Return beef and broccoli to the pan. Toss to coat. Stir-fry 1–2 minutes until the beef is just cooked through and the broccoli is heated. If using, finish with sesame oil.
  9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Top with green onion tops and sesame seeds. Serve over warm rice or noodles. Squeeze a bit of lime if you like brightness.