This Air Fryer Mongolian beef recipe is an easy and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried Mongolian beef. I love how Mongolian beef in the air fryer turns out with perfect crispiness and tender inside. But without all the added oil, making it a guilt-free dish that everyone can enjoy.
1/4CupBrown SugarOr granulated sugar substitute of choice. I used Golden Monk fruit.
2Tbsphoisin sauce
2clovesgarlicminced
1/4cup sliced green onionsoptional
Sesame seedsoptional
Instructions
Prepare the Beef. Start by selecting tender cuts of beef. Flank steak or sirloin are great options that can be easily cut into thin slices. Cut it against the grain into ¼ inch. In a shallow bowl, coat the sliced beef with olive oil, and then cornstarch.
Cook the Beef in the Air Fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Once the air fryer is preheated, add the beef in batches to the air fryer basket or tray. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes (flipping halfway) or until the beef is browned and crispy. (see picture below). Once the beef is finished cooking, remove it from the air fryer and set aside.
Make the Sauce. As the beef cooks, prepare the Mongolian beef sauce in a separate bowl by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and minced garlic. Bring to a light simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar has dissolved. Then add cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Set aside.
Mix the Sauce and the Beef. Once the beef has been air-fried to your desired level of crispiness, remove it from the air fryer basket. Add it to the pan with Mongolian sauce, and toss the beef gently until it is fully coated. Garnish with chopped scallions and sesame seeds.
Notes
Tips and variationsMake sure your food is evenly coated in your desired seasoning or breading. This is important to ensure that your food crisps up evenly and doesn't have any soggy spots. Another tip is to make sure your food is spaced out in the air fryer basket so that the hot air can circulate through all the pieces, ensuring even cooking.MarinateYou can also choose to marinate the beef ahead of time for heightened flavor. Combine soy sauce, rice wine, and minced garlic in a bowl. Next, toss in the sliced beef and use your hands to coat it evenly with the marinade. Place the bowl in the refrigerator and allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes.