There’s nothing quite like a cozy weeknight dinner that brings together familiar flavors in a new, exciting way. Recently, I found myself craving the hearty goodness of Mongolian beef, but I wanted something quicker than the traditional recipe. That’s when inspiration struck: why not combine savory Mongolian beef with the comforting warmth of ramen noodles?
This Mongolian Beef Ramen is my answer to those busy evenings when you want to delight your taste buds without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine the rich aroma of garlic and ginger wafting through the air as tender strips of beef sizzle to perfection. Each bite is a burst of flavor, enhanced by crunchy vegetables and a silky sauce that clings to the noodles. Best of all, this dish elevates instant ramen from a simple snack to a gourmet meal. It’s quick, easy, and undeniably comforting—perfect for anyone looking to break free from the fast-food routine and indulge in homemade goodness. Ready to transform your dinner plans? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Why is Mongolian Beef Ramen so satisfying?
Quick and Easy: This recipe transforms instant ramen into a gourmet dish in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The savory combination of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Fresh Veggies: Tossed in are colorful vegetables like broccoli and carrots, making it not just tasty but also nutritious and vibrant.
Customizable: Feel free to make it your own by swapping in chicken or adding your favorite crunchy toppings, ensuring it suits every palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for yourself or a gathering, this dish delivers on comfort and heartiness, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy this homemade delight that makes every bite memorable!
Mongolian Beef Ramen Ingredients
For the Base
• Instant Ramen – Discard the flavor pack to make this delicious base shine.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for frying the beef; can substitute with any neutral oil like canola or grapeseed.
For the Beef
• Sirloin Steak – Provides protein and savory flavor; slice against the grain for tenderness.
• Cornstarch – Helps the meat become crispy and caramelized; omitting it will still yield a tasty result.
• Toasted Sesame Oil – Adds rich, nutty flavor; regular sesame oil works if you don’t have toasted.
For the Aromatics
• Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor that warms the soul.
• Ginger (minced) – Adds a warm, spicy kick that complements the beef beautifully.
For the Sauce
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides necessary saltiness and richness while managing sodium levels.
• Brown Sugar – Balances saltiness with sweetness; lightly packed for best results.
• Low-Sodium Chicken (or Beef) Broth – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Offers a touch of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
For the Vegetables
• Broccoli (cut into florets) – Adds nutrition and a pop of color to the dish.
• Carrot (cut into matchsticks) – Brings in crunch and natural sweetness.
• Scallions (thinly sliced) – Fresh garnish that brightens the flavors of the dish.
For Garnishing
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds a gorgeous visual appeal and nutty flavor to finish off your Mongolian Beef Ramen.
How to Make Mongolian Beef Ramen
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Cook Ramen: Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the instant ramen according to package instructions. Don’t forget to discard the flavor pack! Drain and set aside.
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Sear Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced sirloin and cook until browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
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Thicken Sauce: Sprinkle cornstarch over the cooked beef and toss to coat evenly. Return the skillet to the heat and stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Add Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the reduced-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Toss in the broccoli and carrot matchsticks. Stir until the veggies are tender, about 3-5 minutes, keeping them vibrant and colorful.
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Combine with Ramen: Add the cooked ramen to the skillet and gently mix everything together until well coated in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mongolian Beef Ramen
- Slice Beef Thinly: Ensure your sirloin steak is sliced against the grain for tender bites; thick pieces may turn chewy.
- Control the Heat: Use medium-high heat when cooking the beef to achieve that perfect crispiness without burning the cornstarch.
- No Overcrowding: Cook the beef in batches if necessary; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes and increase as needed.
- Serve Fresh: This Mongolian Beef Ramen tastes best when enjoyed immediately after cooking; reheat quickly to maintain texture.
What to Serve with Mongolian Beef Ramen?
Embark on a culinary adventure as you build a delightful meal around your comforting bowl of Mongolian Beef Ramen.
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Garlic Bread: The crisp, buttery flavor of garlic bread pairs wonderfully, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the silky ramen sauce.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful bites are a fantastic addition, offering a crispy exterior and a flavorful filling that enhances the meal’s texture.
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Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with crunchy cabbage and a tangy dressing adds a vibrant crunch, balancing the hearty ramen with its fresh flavors.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, this salad provides a nice contrast with a zesty dressing, brightening each bite of the rich beef and noodles.
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Steamed Bok Choy: This tender green adds a lovely layer of nutrition and earthiness, making it a perfect side to enhance the overall meal experience.
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Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Both drinks offer a light, refreshing complement, cleansing the palate after each savory bite of the ramen.
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Chocolate Mochi: For dessert, these chewy, sweet treats are a playful finish, making every meal memorable with their delightful flavors and textures.
Make Ahead Options
This Mongolian Beef Ramen is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner with ease! You can slice the sirloin steak and toss it in cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. Additionally, prepare the veggies—like broccoli and carrots—a day ahead to save time. When you’re set to serve, simply sear the beef in a skillet, add your aromatics, whisk together the sauce ingredients, and incorporate both prepped veggies and ramen in the final stages. This way, you’ll have an incredibly satisfying meal ready in no time, just as delicious and full of flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Mongolian Beef Ramen
Fridge: Store your Mongolian Beef Ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help retain the flavors while keeping everything fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ramen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. However, note that the texture of the noodles may change once thawed.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out. This keeps your dish flavorful and comforting!
Separate Components: For best results, store the beef and vegetables separate from the noodles if you plan to freeze. This helps maintain the texture of each ingredient when reheated.
Mongolian Beef Ramen Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these delightful twists! Each option adds a unique flair to elevate your dish.
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Chicken Swap: Use sliced chicken breast or thighs instead of beef for a lighter alternative. The marinade will still keep it flavorful and juicy.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace beef with tofu to create a plant-based version. Crispy pan-fried tofu absorbs all the scrumptious flavors beautifully.
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Noodle Choices: Opt for udon or soba noodles in place of instant ramen for a different texture and heightened authenticity.
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Add Crunch: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas right before serving for a fresh, crunchy element. These vegetables add vibrant color and delightful texture.
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Spice it Up: Increase the heat with additional red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha. This will turn up the warmth and awaken your taste buds.
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Sweetness Boost: Mix in a touch of hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce along with the soy sauce for extra sweetness. You’ll taste the lush flavor pairing instantly!
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Herbaceous Twist: Sprinkle fresh cilantro or basil just before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish and adds freshness.
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Creamy Upgrade: Try stirring in a spoonful of peanut butter with the sauce ingredients for a rich and creamy twist that complements the savory elements perfectly.
Each variation invites you to craft a personal touch to your Mongolian Beef Ramen, making it a dish that feels uniquely yours!
Mongolian Beef Ramen Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Mongolian Beef Ramen?
I recommend using sirloin steak, as it offers great flavor and tenderness when sliced against the grain. This cut is both juicy and quick to cook, making it perfect for a speedy dish like this.
How should I store leftovers of my Mongolian Beef Ramen?
Store your Mongolian Beef Ramen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can savor those delightful flavors again! When reheating, add a splash of broth to keep it from drying out and to refresh the sauce.
Can I freeze Mongolian Beef Ramen?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. However, for best texture, I suggest storing the beef and vegetables separately from the ramen noodles. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the beef is tough?
If you find that the beef is tough, it could be because it wasn’t sliced thinly enough or cooked too long. Make sure to slice the sirloin against the grain into thin strips for tenderness. For troubleshooting, try marinating the beef in a little soy sauce for 15-30 minutes before cooking to help tenderize it.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or gluten-free?
Certainly! To make it vegetarian, swap out the beef for firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free ramen and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, so feel free to get creative!
What vegetables can I add or substitute in the recipe?
The more, the merrier! You can add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. If you’re looking for crunchy alternatives, try water chestnuts or bamboo shoots—they’d fit right in and make your Mongolian Beef Ramen even more colorful and delicious!
Mongolian Beef Ramen: Your Quick Comfort Food Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the instant ramen according to package instructions. Don’t forget to discard the flavor pack! Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced sirloin and cook until browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle cornstarch over the cooked beef and toss to coat evenly. Return the skillet to the heat and stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the reduced-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Toss in the broccoli and carrot matchsticks. Stir until the veggies are tender, about 3-5 minutes, keeping them vibrant and colorful.
- Add the cooked ramen to the skillet and gently mix everything together until well coated in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds.