Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe

If you are craving something with bold flavors and irresistible texture, Crispy Chilli Beef is the answer to your dinner prayers. This dish boasts perfectly crisped strips of tender beef, coated in a deliciously sticky, spicy sauce that plays beautifully with the subtle sweetness and tang of hoisin and rice vinegar. Whether it’s a weeknight pick-me-up or a special meal to impress friends, Crispy Chilli Beef brings together vibrant colors, mouthwatering aromas, and a satisfying crunch that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients you need for Crispy Chilli Beef are straightforward and easy to find, yet each plays a pivotal role in building unforgettable layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the tender beef to the perfectly balanced sauce, these components come together to create harmony in every bite.

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thin slices work best to get a tender interior with a crispy coating.
• Cornstarch and all-purpose flour: Combined to create the perfect crispy batter.
• Egg and water: These bind the batter and help it cling to the beef.
• Baking powder: Adds lightness and extra crunch to the coating.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Hot oil ensures that delicious crispiness.
• Soy sauce: Brings umami depth and a savory backbone to the sauce.
• Rice vinegar: Offers a subtle tang to balance the sweetness and heat.
• Hoisin sauce: Adds richness and a touch of sweetness.
• Chili sauce: Customize the heat level with this spicy kick.
• Sugar: Rounds out the sauce’s flavors with a mild sweetness.
• Minced garlic and ginger: Aromatics that brighten and deepen the sauce’s profile.
• Onion and bell pepper: Provide a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast.
• Red chilies (optional): For anyone who loves an extra layer of spice.
• Sesame oil: Adds a toasty, nutty aroma that finishes the sauce beautifully.
• Chopped green onions: Perfect garnish to freshen up the plate.

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

Step 1: Prepare and Slice the Beef

Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain. This ensures the strips stay tender after frying. Thin slices also help the batter stick and give you that signature crunch with every bite.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the egg and water until smooth and no lumps remain. This batter is the secret to that irresistible crispy texture you’re aiming for.

Step 3: Fry the Beef

Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Dip each beef strip fully into the batter, making sure it’s well-coated. Fry the strips in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes each until golden and crisp. Once done, transfer them onto paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a wok or large pan, warm the sesame oil. Sauté the minced garlic, ginger, sliced onion, and bell pepper for about 2 minutes until aromatic and slightly softened. This layer of flavors is going to infuse the sauce with a wonderful depth.

Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili sauce, and sugar to the pan. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken just slightly.

Step 6: Toss Crispy Beef in the Sauce

Add the crispy battered beef to the sauce in the pan. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to coat each piece with that sticky chili goodness. Continue stir-frying for another 2 to 3 minutes so the beef soaks up all those incredible flavors without losing its crunch.

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Beef

Garnishes

To finish, sprinkle sliced red chilies if you like extra heat and chopped green onions. These fresh garnishes add not only a pop of color but a lively bite that balances the richness of the dish.

Side Dishes

Crispy Chilli Beef pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or fragrant jasmine rice, which help soak up the luscious sauce. If you prefer something with texture, try serving it alongside stir-fried noodles or a simple vegetable stir-fry that complements the rich beef.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Crispy Chilli Beef over a bed of crispy lettuce leaves for bites that have both crunch and freshness. You could also turn it into a bowl with rice, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of extra chili sauce or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Crispy Chilli Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 2 days to enjoy the crispiness and vibrant flavors at their peak.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover beef, but keep in mind the crispiness will soften slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the best texture, reheat in a hot skillet or oven rather than the microwave. This helps refresh the crispness of the batter while warming the sauce and beef evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Crispy Chilli Beef?

Absolutely! While sirloin or flank steak works best due to their tenderness and flavor, you can use skirt steak or even ribeye if you prefer a richer cut. Just make sure to slice thinly against the grain.

How can I adjust the heat level in this dish?

Control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili sauce and the optional sliced red chilies. For a milder version, reduce or omit these, or use a sweet chili sauce instead of a hot one.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour and tamari instead of soy sauce. Double-check your hoisin and chili sauce labels to ensure they are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently and toss the crispy beef right before serving to maintain that perfect crunch.

What’s the best way to slice the beef?

Always slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. This shortens the muscle fibers and ensures each bite is tender, not chewy, especially after frying.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Chilli Beef is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough for company. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite in your kitchen too!

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