Why Mongolian BBQ Is a Must-make BBQ Recipe
When you think about barbecues, Mongolian BBQ stands out as a must-try dish, especially if you’re craving something packed with flavor and texture.
I love how it combines fresh ingredients with bold sauces, making every bite a delightful experience. The interactive cooking style adds excitement, letting you customize your meal just the way you like it.
Plus, it’s a fantastic option for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. The sizzling hot grill transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece, bursting with umami and spice.
Trust me, once you try Mongolian BBQ, you’ll want it at every gathering!
Ingredients of Mongolian BBQ
When it comes to whipping up a delicious Mongolian BBQ stir-fry, the ingredients play a big role in creating that mouthwatering flavor. You want to gather the freshest veggies and the right sauces to really bring everything to life. Trust me, the right combination can make your taste buds dance with joy.
Plus, this dish is super versatile, so you can mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving. So, let’s explore the list of what you’ll need to make this delightful dish.
Ingredients for Mongolian BBQ Seitan Stir-Fry:
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon agave (or your preferred sweetener)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 – 2 teaspoons chili-garlic sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced
- 8 ounces seitan, cut into thin strips
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 4 ounces snow peas, strings removed
- 2 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations when picking out these ingredients. Freshness is key—especially with the vegetables. You want those snow peas to be crisp and vibrant, and the shiitake mushrooms should be firm and fragrant.
If you can, go for fresh ginger instead of powdered; it really amps up the flavor. And hey, if you’re not a fan of seitan, you can easily swap it out for tofu, tempeh, or even some grilled chicken if you prefer a meatier option.
Just remember, the sauces are your flavor powerhouses, so don’t skimp on those. Get ready for a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress your family or friends, or you know, just yourself on a cozy night in. Cooking for yourself is totally a thing, right?
How to Make Mongolian BBQ
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful world of making Mongolian BBQ Seitan Stir-Fry. It’s way easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll feel like a kitchen rock star by the end of it.
First things first, grab that 1/4 cup of hoisin sauce, 1/4 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of agave, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and your chili-garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk these ingredients together until they’re blended into a glorious sauce that smells like pure happiness. Set that aside and let it chill for a bit while we get the rest of the show on the road.
Now, in a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s shimmering like a disco ball at a dance party, toss in the 8 ounces of shiitake mushrooms that you’ve sliced up. Stir-fry those beauties until they’re lightly browned and have released their juices—about 5 minutes should do the trick.
Then, it’s time to add in the 8 ounces of seitan, cut into thin strips, along with 2 teaspoons of grated fresh ginger, 1/8 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir everything together and let it cook for a few more minutes until the seitan is nice and warmed through. You might find yourself wondering if you could just eat it right now, and honestly, who could blame you?
Once that fragrant mix is ready, pour in the sauce you made earlier along with 4 ounces of snow peas. Lower the heat to medium and give it a little stir. Let that simmer until the sauce thickens up—this could happen quickly, so keep an eye on it. If it looks like it needs a little more liquid love, don’t hesitate to splash in some water or hoisin sauce.
When it’s all thick and gooey, turn off the heat and fold in 2 thinly sliced scallions and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro. Serve your masterpiece over 2 cups of cooked rice, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited. Just maybe save a plate for your friends, unless you’re feeling a little greedy—no judgment here.
Mongolian BBQ Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up in your Mongolian BBQ Seitan Stir-Fry, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For protein, tofu or tempeh can replace seitan, giving you a different texture. Instead of shiitake mushrooms, try bell peppers or broccoli for added crunch.
If you want a spicier kick, add more chili-garlic sauce or opt for sriracha. Swap hoisin sauce with teriyaki for a sweeter flavor profile.
You can also mix in nuts, like cashews, for extra protein and crunch. Don’t hesitate to experiment with veggies and sauces to personalize your dish!
What to Serve with Mongolian BBQ
After customizing your Mongolian BBQ stir-fry with various ingredients, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside it.
I love pairing it with fluffy cooked rice, as it absorbs the delicious sauce perfectly. You could also add a side of crispy spring rolls for a fun crunch.
If I’m feeling festive, I might serve some steamed dumplings to complement the flavors. A simple cucumber salad adds a rejuvenating crunch, balancing the richness of the stir-fry.
Don’t forget some extra soy sauce or chili-garlic sauce on the side for those who like an added kick! Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While cooking your Mongolian BBQ stir-fry, keep in mind a few additional tips to enhance the experience.
First, feel free to customize the veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. I love adding bell peppers or broccoli for extra crunch.
If you want a spicier kick, adjust the chili-garlic sauce to your taste.
Don’t rush the cooking process; letting the seitan brown nicely adds flavor.
Finally, serve it immediately for the best texture, and don’t forget to garnish with extra cilantro for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your delicious creation!