Best Vegan Mongolian Beef Recipe for Flavorful Meals

If you’ve ever craved the rich, savory taste of Mongolian beef but want to keep things plant-based, you’re in for a treat! This best vegan Mongolian beef recipe delivers all the bold flavors and satisfying textures you’d expect from the classic dish, without any animal products.

Using hearty, meaty mushrooms and a luscious, sticky sauce, this dish will quickly become a family favorite for vegans and meat-eaters alike. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is simple, quick, and packed with umami goodness.

Replacing traditional beef with mushrooms or seitan creates the perfect canvas for the sweet and savory Mongolian sauce. Plus, it’s gluten-free friendly if you swap soy sauce for tamari!

Paired with steamed rice or noodles, this vegan Mongolian “beef” is a powerhouse of comforting flavors. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish that’s sure to satisfy your Asian-inspired cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Mongolian beef recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

• Rich Umami Flavor: The sauce combines soy sauce, hoisin, ginger, and garlic for an authentic taste sensation.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Mushrooms or seitan provide a meaty texture that mimics traditional beef perfectly.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthier Option: Plant-based with no cholesterol and packed with fiber and vitamins.
• Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

• 14 oz (400g) oyster mushrooms or seitan strips
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (check vegan labeling)
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly
• 1 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• Steamed jasmine rice, for serving

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or wok
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Whisk or fork (for mixing sauce)
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the mushrooms or seitan: If using oyster mushrooms, gently tear them into bite-sized strips. For seitan, slice into thin strips resembling beef slices.
2. Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir frequently for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt.
4. Cook the mushrooms/seitan: Toss in the mushroom strips or seitan and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms will release moisture; cook until slightly browned and tender.
5. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, and hoisin sauce until sugar dissolves.
6. Add sauce to the pan: Pour the sauce mixture over the cooked mushrooms/seitan. Stir to coat everything evenly.
7. Thicken the sauce: Give your cornstarch slurry a quick stir and slowly drizzle it into the pan, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
8. Finish with green onions and chili flakes: Stir in sliced green onions and red chili flakes if using. Cook for another 30 seconds.
9. Serve hot: Spoon the vegan Mongolian beef over steamed jasmine rice or your favorite noodles and enjoy immediately.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, use fresh oyster mushrooms or high-quality seitan. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning.”

• Protein swap: Try tempeh strips or extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced, as alternatives.
• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check hoisin sauce ingredients.
• Add vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• Sweetness level: Adjust brown sugar to taste or substitute with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Spice it up: Add sriracha or fresh chopped chili for more heat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Mongolian beef pairs beautifully with simple, comforting sides:

• Steamed jasmine or brown rice for soaking up the sauce
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Stir-fried vegetables for added texture and nutrition
• Cold cucumber salad with sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast
• Chilled edamame sprinkled with sea salt as a snack or side

For a complete Asian-inspired meal, consider starting with a light Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe or finishing off with a sweet treat like the Magic Dough Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegan Mongolian beef recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the classic flavors you love, without compromising your plant-based lifestyle. By using mushrooms or seitan, the dish achieves a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet and savory Mongolian sauce.

It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and sure to impress even the most devoted meat-eaters at your table.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or just looking for a fresh twist on a classic, this recipe offers warmth, comfort, and bold flavors in every bite. Don’t forget to explore more of our recipes like the savory Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or the delightful Marzipan Challah Recipe to expand your plant-based repertoire!

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