The Ultimate Mongolian Grill Recipe for DIY Stir-Fry Nights

Imagine the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meats, crisp vegetables, and savory sauces swirling together on a hot grill. Without a doubt, this Mongolian Grill recipe is the ultimate way to recreate the iconic DIY stir-fry experience at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for busy weeknights or planning to impress your guests, this dish brings vibrant flavors and endless customizable options straight to your table.

Moreover, Mongolian Grill is not just a dish—it’s an interactive experience. Originally developed in Taiwan and inspired by Mongolian barbecue traditions, this unique cooking style encourages creativity by combining fresh proteins, colorful veggies, and bold sauces, all cooked quickly on a high-heat surface. As a result, you’ll enjoy a harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with just the right amount of crunch and tenderness.

Whether you’re catering to a family with diverse tastes or looking for a healthy, fast meal, this Mongolian Grill recipe has you covered. With a few essential ingredients and some tips for success, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality feast from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Mongolian Grill lies in its simplicity and versatility. This recipe shines because it combines quick preparation with limitless flavor combinations. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Customizable Ingredients:
   • This recipe is a canvas for your creativity. Whether you’re a carnivore, vegetarian, or somewhere in between, you can tailor the ingredients to suit your preferences. Thinly sliced beef, chicken, tofu, or even seafood—anything goes!
2. Flavorful Sauces:
   • The secret to a great Mongolian Grill is in the sauce. Our recipe includes a perfectly balanced mix of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. You can adjust the spice level with chili flakes or sriracha for a kick.
3. Quick and Healthy Cooking:
   • Cooking on high heat locks in nutrients while delivering a smoky, charred flavor. This recipe is low in fat, packed with fresh veggies, and can be made gluten-free or low-carb with minor adjustments.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep:
   • Prepare the ingredients ahead of time, and you’ll have a quick, go-to meal for busy nights. It’s easy to cook for one or scale up for a crowd.
5. Interactive and Fun:
   • Turn dinner into an activity by setting up a “grill station” where everyone can build their bowl. This is especially fun for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Now that you know what makes this recipe so special, let’s dive into the details to bring this vibrant dish to life.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your own Mongolian Grill recipe at home. Of course, feel free to adjust the quantities and swap ingredients to suit your preferences. Additionally, you can experiment with different combinations to make the dish uniquely yours.

Proteins (Choose 1-2):

• Beef (8 oz): Thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin. Freezing the meat for 20 minutes beforehand makes slicing easier.
• Chicken (8 oz): Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, sliced into strips.
• Tofu (8 oz): Firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed for vegetarians.
• Shrimp (8 oz): Peeled and deveined, ideal for a seafood option.

Vegetables (Use 2-3 cups total):

• Broccoli florets (1 cup): Adds a nice crunch and soaks up the sauce.
• Bell peppers (1 cup): Choose red, yellow, or green for a burst of color.
• Carrots (½ cup): Thinly sliced or julienned.
• Onion (½ cup): Sliced into thin wedges; red onions add a mild sweetness.
• Snap peas (½ cup): Crisp and fresh, they cook in seconds.
• Mushrooms (1 cup): Shiitake or button mushrooms for a meaty texture.

Sauce:

• Soy sauce (¼ cup): Use low-sodium soy sauce for better control over saltiness.
• Hoisin sauce (2 tbsp): Adds depth and sweetness.
• Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the saltiness and enhances caramelization.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Minced for a savory kick.
• Ginger (1 tbsp): Freshly grated for a warm, spicy note.
• Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds acidity to brighten the flavors.
• Sesame oil (1 tsp): A finishing touch for nuttiness.
• Cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water): Helps thicken the sauce.

Optional Toppings:

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Crushed peanuts or cashews

Serving Options:

• Rice: Steamed white or brown rice.
• Noodles: Udon, rice noodles, or lo mein.
• Lettuce wraps: A low-carb alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce (5 minutes):
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Slice and Prep Ingredients (15 minutes):
   • Slice proteins into thin strips.
   • Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
   • Arrange everything in separate bowls or a tray for easy access.
3. Heat the Grill or Wok (2 minutes):
   • Preheat a large, flat griddle, wok, or skillet over high heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and let it shimmer.
4. Cook the Protein (5 minutes):
   • Add the protein to the hot surface in a single layer. Stir occasionally until fully cooked (beef: 2-3 minutes, chicken: 5-6 minutes, tofu: 4 minutes, shrimp: 3-4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
5. Cook the Vegetables (4-5 minutes):
   • Add a bit more oil if necessary. Start with harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli, then add softer ones like mushrooms and snap peas. Stir-fry until tender-crisp.
6. Combine and Add Sauce (3 minutes):
   • Return the protein to the pan with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the top and toss to coat. Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce if desired. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve Hot (2 minutes):
   • Plate your Mongolian Grill creation over steamed rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Pro Tips for a Successful Mongolian Grill recipe

1. Get the Right Heat:
   The key to a great Mongolian Grill is cooking over high heat. This sears the meat, locks in flavors, and creates a delicious char. Use a wok or cast-iron griddle for even heat distribution.
2. Prep Everything First:
   Since the cooking process is quick, have all your ingredients chopped, measured, and within arm’s reach before you start.
3. Slice Thin for Fast Cooking:
   Thinly sliced proteins and vegetables cook faster and more evenly. Use a sharp knife and consider chilling meat briefly to make slicing easier.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
   Overloading the cooking surface causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
5. Customize Your Sauce:
   Experiment with the sauce to match your taste. Add chili garlic paste for heat, or swap brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
6. Use Fresh Aromatics:
   Fresh garlic and ginger are non-negotiable for authentic flavor. Pre-minced versions don’t deliver the same punch.
7. Adapt to Dietary Needs:
   • For gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and hoisin.
   • For low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Variants of the Recipe

The beauty of this Mongolian Grill recipe is its adaptability. Here are several exciting variations to try:

1. Spicy Mongolian Grill:
   To give your dish a fiery kick, simply add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the sauce. Furthermore, you can easily adjust the spice level to match your preference. For balance, consider pairing this bold variant with cooling cucumber slices or creamy yogurt-based dips.
2. Vegetarian Mongolian Grill:
   You can swap meat for tofu or tempeh, and additionally, double up on hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a satisfying texture. Moreover, for extra protein, consider adding edamame or chickpeas to the mix, which will make the dish even more nutritious and filling.
3. Seafood Mongolian Grill:
   You can use shrimp, scallops, or even chunks of firm fish like salmon for this variation. Not only do these proteins cook quickly, but they also pair beautifully with a squeeze of lime for brightness and fresh cilantro as a garnish to enhance the flavors even further.
4. Low-Carb Mongolian Grill:
   For a low-carb option, you can replace rice or noodles with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Additionally, consider reducing the brown sugar in the sauce to lower the sweetness and, instead, boost the ginger and garlic to create a more robust and savory flavor profile.
5. Teriyaki-Inspired Mongolian Grill:
   For a sweet and tangy variation, you can replace hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce and, in addition, add pineapple chunks for extra flavor. This version is especially great for kids or anyone with a sweet tooth, as it perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of tropical zest.
6. Korean-Style Mongolian Grill:
   For an exciting fusion, add gochujang and sesame oil to the sauce for spice, and top with kimchi for a tangy flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions of Mongolian Grill recipe

1. Over Rice or Noodles:
   Serve your Mongolian Grill over a bed of fluffy steamed rice—jasmine or basmati work well. For a noodle option, try lo mein, udon, or even soba noodles tossed with a bit of sesame oil.
2. In Lettuce Wraps:
   Transform this recipe into a low-carb, hand-held delight by spooning the stir-fry into large lettuce leaves. Butter lettuce and Romaine hearts are great choices for their sturdy structure.
3. With Side Dishes:
   • Spring Rolls or Dumplings: Serve alongside crispy spring rolls or steamed dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired feast.
   • Soup Starter: Begin the meal with a light soup like miso or hot and sour soup.
   • Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds balances the richness of the grill.
4. Garnish Extravagantly:
   • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for a burst of flavor.
   • Add crushed peanuts or cashews for crunch.
   • A drizzle of spicy mayo or hoisin sauce can elevate the presentation.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

1. Storing Leftovers:
   • Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
   • Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked stir-fry in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Freeze the sauce separately if possible for better texture during reheating.
2. Reheating Options:
   • Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
   • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
   • Oven: Transfer to a covered baking dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
3. Tips for Best Results:
   • Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.
   • If frozen, thaw the stir-fry in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Creative Leftover Ideas:
   • Use as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
   • Top a salad for a protein-packed lunch.
   • Stir into scrambled eggs or an omelet for a unique breakfast twist.

Recipe Card

mongolian grill recipe

Recipe by SouhailCuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

This DIY Mongolian Grill recipe brings restaurant-quality stir-fry to your home. Customize it with your favorite proteins, veggies, and sauce for a fast, healthy, and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

• Proteins (Choose 1-2)

• 8 oz thinly sliced beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu

• Vegetables (Choose 3-5)

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced

• ½ cup julienned carrots

• ½ cup sliced onion

• ½ cup snap peas or mushrooms

• Sauce

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp grated ginger

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry)

• Optional Garnishes

• Sesame seeds

• Green onions

• Crushed peanuts

Directions

• Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
• Prep the Ingredients: Thinly slice proteins and chop vegetables. Arrange all components for quick access during cooking.
• Heat the Pan: Preheat a wok or skillet over high heat. Add oil and heat until shimmering.
• Cook Proteins: Stir-fry the protein until cooked through (beef: 2-3 minutes, chicken: 5-6 minutes, shrimp: 3-4 minutes, tofu: 4 minutes). Set aside.
• Cook Vegetables: Stir-fry vegetables starting with firmer ones like broccoli and carrots, then add softer ones like mushrooms and snap peas. Cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
• Combine: Return the protein to the pan. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat. Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
• Serve: Plate over rice, noodles, or in lettuce wraps. Garnish as desired.

Notes

• Adjust spice level by adding chili flakes or sriracha.
• For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and hoisin.

FAQs About Mongolian Grill recipe

Final Thoughts

This Mongolian Grill recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a creative, flavorful adventure. Perfect for busy nights or fun gatherings, it delivers fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and endless customization possibilities. With its quick cooking time and interactive nature, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.

If you’re a fan of Asian-inspired cuisine, then we’ve got plenty more recipes for you to explore! From savory stir-fries to hearty soups and, of course, delicious noodle dishes, our collection of Asian recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings. Additionally, you can check out our Asian Recipes for even more ideas, and bring the bold and vibrant flavors of the East straight to your kitchen.

When you’re ready to explore more, why not try pairing this recipe with other stir-fry dishes or even a comforting soup from our blog? Furthermore, don’t forget to share your thoughts, questions, and unique variations in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy the adventure!