Mongolian Beef Soup

Ingredients

1½ lb beef flank steak, trimmed of fat

2 bunches green onions

1 to 2 Tbsp vegetable oil

2 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

5 cloves garlic, minced

1 (32-oz) box reduced-sodium beef broth

¼ cup packed dark brown sugar

¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce

1 (3-oz) pkg ramen noodles, flavor packet discarded

1 Tbsp cornstarch

1 Tbsp water

Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1:

Thinly steak slice across the grain.

Cut strips crosswise into 1½ inch pieces.

Bias-slice the green onions; separate the white and green portions.

In a 4- to 5-quart pot cook half of the meat in 1 Tbsp hot oil over medium-high until browned.

Remove from pot.

Repeat with remaining meat and oil.

Step 2:

Add white portions of the green onions, the ginger, and garlic to pot.

Cook and stir over medium 3 minutes or until softened.

Stir in broth, sugar, and soy sauce.

Bring to boiling.

Break ramen noodles into large pieces.

Stir into soup.

Step 3:

In a small bowl combine cornstarch and water.

Stir into soup.

Cook and stir 3 minutes or until mixture is bubbly.

Stir in beef and green portions of onions; heat through.

If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different cut of beef for Mongolian Beef Soup?

Yes, you can use other cuts like sirloin or ribeye if flank steak is not available.

Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I properly slice the beef?

Slice the beef thinly across the grain to ensure tenderness.

Then, cut the strips crosswise into 1½ inch pieces.

What is the purpose of discarding the ramen flavor packet?

Discarding the flavor packet helps control the sodium content.

The reduced-sodium beef broth and soy sauce provide enough flavor.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to add the ramen noodles just before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Can I omit the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can reduce or omit the sugar if you prefer a less sweet flavor.

Adjust to your taste.

Are there alternatives to vegetable oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like canola or peanut oil.

Choose an oil with a high smoke point.

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of reduced-sodium?

Yes, you can, but using reduced-sodium soy sauce allows better control of the overall saltiness.

Is there a substitute for dark brown sugar?

Light brown sugar or honey can be used as alternatives to dark brown sugar.

What can I use instead of ramen noodles?

You can substitute with other types of noodles, such as udon or rice noodles.

Are sesame seeds necessary for garnish?

No, sesame seeds are optional.

They add a nutty flavor, but the soup is still delicious without them.