Mongolian barbecue, despite its name, is not actually Mongolian. It is a stir-fried noodle dish that has become popular worldwide, especially in restaurants offering customizable stir-fry experiences. If you’re craving the flavors of Mongolian barbecue but want to recreate it at home, you’re in luck! This article will guide you through making your own restaurant-quality Mongolian BBQ recipe step by step.
What Makes Mongolian BBQ Special?
The appeal of Mongolian BBQ recipe lies in its rich and savory sauce, tender meat (often beef or chicken), and fresh vegetables cooked together with noodles or rice. The sauce typically includes soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil—ingredients that create a perfect balance of umami and spice.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mongolian BBQ
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
To start, gather all the necessary ingredients for your Mongolian BBQ recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Protein: Thinly sliced steak, chicken, or even shrimp works well. Cut the meat into thin strips for quick cooking.
- Vegetables: Common choices include bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and snap peas. Broccoli can also be added if you prefer, though some purists argue it’s more suited to dishes like “broccoli beef”.
- Noodles or Rice: While noodles are traditional, some recipes suggest serving the dish over steamed rice.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
Marinating the protein is key to achieving flavorful results. A simple marinade includes:
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon white wine
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Minced green onions for added aroma
Let the meat sit in the marinade for at least 15–30 minutes before cooking.
Step 3: Whip Up the Sauce
The star of any Mongolian BBQ recipe is the sauce. For an authentic taste, combine the following:
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon ginger powder (or freshly grated ginger)
- Optional: Chinese red peppers or chili flakes for heat
Mix these ingredients thoroughly and set aside. This sauce will tie everything together during the final cooking stage.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
If using noodles, cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Alternatively, prepare steamed rice as a base for your stir-fry.
Step 5: Stir-Fry Everything Together
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add a splash of sesame oil. Start by adding the marinated meat and searing it quickly to lock in juices. Remove the meat from the pan and set it aside.
Next, sauté your vegetables in the same pan until they’re crisp-tender. Return the meat to the pan along with the prepared sauce. Toss everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Finally, mix in the cooked noodles or serve the stir-fry over rice.
Tips for Perfect Mongolian BBQ
- Slice Meat Thinly: To ensure the meat cooks evenly and stays tender, slice it against the grain into thin strips.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences. Snow peas, carrots, and baby corn are great additions.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more chili flakes or Chinese red peppers if you enjoy spicy food. Conversely, omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions make a noticeable difference in enhancing the overall taste.
Why Make Mongolian BBQ at Home?
Recreating Mongolian BBQ recipe at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients and tailor the dish to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun way to involve family members in the cooking process—everyone can pick their favorite toppings and sauces. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
So why wait? Fire up your stove and bring the vibrant flavors of Mongolian BBQ straight to your kitchen table!
By following these steps and tips, you’ll achieve a mouthwatering dish that rivals your favorite restaurant versions. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your very own Mongolian BBQ masterpiece!