If you’re looking for a tasty meal that doesn’t take all day, these Mongolian Beef Meatballs are perfect! With tender meatballs in a sweet and savory sauce, they’re a treat for your taste buds.
Who knew meatballs could be so fun? I love serving them over rice or noodles. It’s like a little flavor party on my plate! Give them a try—you’ll be glad you did! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work well. Both will change the flavor a bit, but they’re great lean substitutions.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs. If you’re avoiding gluten, try using almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. For a low-carb option, finely ground oats can also be a good choice.
Green Onion: This adds freshness and flavor. If you don’t have green onions, regular onions chopped finely can be used, but they might give a stronger taste. Chives are another mild alternative.
Soy Sauce: It gives that umami flavor. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. For a low-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce, or replace it with coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter taste.
Brown Sugar: This balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, honey or maple syrup can be good substitutes, but adjust the quantity as these are sweeter.
How Do You Ensure Meatballs Are Tender and Not Tough?
Making tender meatballs is all about how you mix the ingredients. When combining the ground beef and other ingredients, mix gently and just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Start with a large bowl for mixing and use your hands for the best results.
- Form the meatballs gently without packing them too tightly; aim for a loose but uniform shape.
- Keep the cooking heat moderate to prevent them from overcooking while browning.
How to Make 30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1-2 cups steamed broccoli
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time. In just this short time, you’ll have delicious Mongolian beef meatballs ready to serve with rice and broccoli!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Add in the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, and the egg. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to mix everything together gently but thoroughly, just until combined. Now, shape the mixture into small meatballs, each about 1 inch in diameter. They’ll be the perfect size to cook and enjoy!
2. Cook the Meatballs:
Next, take a large skillet and heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally with a spatula or tongs so they brown nicely on all sides and cook through. You want them nicely browned and cooked to perfection!
3. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil until everything is well mixed and smooth. This sauce is going to add so much flavor to your meatballs!
4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once your meatballs are cooked, pour the sauce over them in the skillet. Gently stir the meatballs to coat them in the sauce. Let them simmer together for 2-3 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken up and envelop the meatballs with that delicious flavor.
5. Steam the Broccoli:
While the meatballs are simmering, take a pot and steam the broccoli until it’s tender. This should take about 5 minutes. Fresh, steamed broccoli adds a nice crunch and balances out the dish!
6. Serve It Up:
Now it’s time to serve! Place a generous bed of cooked white rice in each bowl. Top the rice with the Mongolian beef meatballs and their luscious sauce. Add a side of the steamed broccoli for a colorful and nutritious meal.
7. Garnish:
To finish, sprinkle some extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely touch. Your 30-Minute Mongolian Beef Meatballs are ready to enjoy! Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Lean ground beef will work just fine, but keep in mind that the meatballs may be slightly less juicy. If you want to add a bit of moisture, consider mixing in a tablespoon of olive oil or using a little grated carrot to help maintain tenderness.
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even finely ground up stale bread. Just ensure they’re properly crushed or ground for a uniform mixture. Adjust the moisture in the mixture slightly if you use oats or crackers, as they can absorb more liquid.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs separately once cooled, and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha into the sauce. You can also serve it with chili oil on the side to let everyone spice to their own taste!
