Name: Crispy Chilli Beef: Quick and Delicious Homemade Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 360 g Thin-Cut Sirloin Steak (or substitute with ribeye or flank); 1 small Egg (acts as a binder); 4 tbsp Cornflour (Cornstarch) (for extra crunch); 0.25 tsp Salt; 0.25 tsp Black Pepper; 0.125 tsp White Pepper; 4.5 tbsp Sunflower Oil (divided); 1 Medium Onion (sliced); 1 Red Chili (remove seeds for milder taste); 1 tsp Minced Ginger; 3 Garlic Cloves; 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar; 3 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce; 2 tbsp Tomato Puree (or Paste); 6 tbsp Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar) (adjust for taste); 2 tbsp Tomato Ketchup; 2 tbsp Sweet Chili Sauce

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The aroma of sizzling beef wafted through my kitchen, drawing me in with its irresistible allure. This Crispy Chilli Beef is more than just a dish; it’s a vibrant homage to the beloved Chinese classic that we all crave. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s not only quick to whip up but also a healthier alternative to the deep-fried versions you find at restaurants. With tender strips of beef coated in a crisp, golden crust and enveloped in a sweet and tangy sauce, it promises to delight your taste buds without the guilt. It’s a feast for the senses that will leave everyone around the dinner table asking for seconds—can you say no to that? Ready to experience the joy of making this delightful dish at home? Let’s dive in!

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Why is Crispy Chilli Beef a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, taking just minutes to sprinkle excitement into your dinner routine.

Healthier Twist: You’ll enjoy the crunch without the guilt, as it’s a delightful alternative to traditional deep-fried options.

Flavor Explosion: Every bite offers a burst of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that will tantalize your senses, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Customizable: Mix it up by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the heat level to suit your family’s taste.

Home-Cooked Goodness: Say goodbye to takeout and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious meal in your own kitchen—it’s sure to impress!

For more delightful meals, consider trying my Garlic Butter Beef or a comforting French Style Beef stew!

Crispy Chilli Beef Ingredients

• Get ready to create your delicious homemade delight!

For the Beef Coating

Thin-Cut Sirloin Steak – 360g (¾ lb) gives the perfect tender texture; feel free to substitute with ribeye or flank for a different flavor.
Small Egg – Acts as a binder for a crispy coating that holds everything together.
Cornflour (Cornstarch) – 4 tbsp ensures an extra crunchy exterior that you’ll love!
Salt – ¼ tsp enhances the overall flavor, bringing all the ingredients together.
Black Pepper – ¼ tsp adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.
White Pepper – ⅛ tsp provides a subtle warmth for a well-rounded taste.

For the Cooking

Sunflower Oil – 4 ½ tbsp (divided); this will help fry the beef to a perfect golden crisp—adjust to reduce oil for healthier cooking.

For the Sauce

Medium Onion – 1, sliced for natural sweetness and a delightful crunch in every bite.
Red Chili – 1, adds a kick; remover seeds if you prefer a milder taste.
Minced Ginger – 1 tsp for an aromatic depth that elevates the dish.
Garlic Cloves – 3, because who doesn’t love a rich and flavorful garlic aroma!
Rice Vinegar – 2 tbsp introduces a brightness to balance the dish.
Dark Soy Sauce – 3 tbsp brings in that delicious umami flavor we crave.
Tomato Puree (or Paste) – 2 tbsp for a thick, rich sauce base that is oh-so-good.
Caster Sugar (Superfine Sugar) – 6 tbsp, balancing savory notes with sweetness; you can adjust for your own tastes!
Tomato Ketchup – 2 tbsp adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang.
Sweet Chili Sauce – 2 tbsp gives a delightful blend of sweetness and heat, enhancing the overall profile of flavor.

Gather all these ingredients and be prepared to create your Crispy Chilli Beef that will make the family cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chilli Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, place the thin-cut sirloin steak strips and add a small egg, cornflour, salt, black pepper, and white pepper. Mix well until the beef is thoroughly coated, creating a sticky batter. This mixture will ensure a crispy outer layer for your Crispy Chilli Beef. Set aside for about 10 minutes to let the coating firm up.

Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a large frying pan or wok over high heat until shimmering—this usually takes about 2 minutes. Carefully add the beef strips in batches, frying for 5-6 minutes until they become dark brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked beef to a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pan, pour in the remaining 1 ½ tablespoons of sunflower oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, toss in the sliced red chili, minced ginger, and chopped garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, tomato puree, caster sugar, tomato ketchup, and sweet chili sauce into the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, creating a glossy coating.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Carefully return the crispy beef strips to the pan, tossing everything together to coat the beef thoroughly in the flavorful sauce. Allow it to heat through for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring the beef is warm and glossy. Serve your delightful Crispy Chilli Beef immediately over steamed rice or stir-fried noodles for a complete meal.

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What to Serve with Crispy Chilli Beef

Elevate your homemade dinner experience with the perfect accompaniments that beautifully balance the bold flavors of your meal.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfectly fluffy and fragrant, it soaks up the tangy sauce and balances the dish beautifully.
Stir-Fried Noodles: A delightful option that adds a chewy texture, allowing the sauce to cling for an irresistible bite.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Fresh, crisp greens bring a refreshing contrast and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal of your plate.
Garlic Green Beans: Their snap and savory flavor make an ideal side, complementing the umami notes of the Crispy Chilli Beef.
Cucumber Salad: A light, refreshing dish that adds crunch and a cooling effect against the heat of the chili, perfect for balancing flavors.
Chilled Chinese Tea: A soothing drink that complements spicy dishes and aids in digestion, creating a pleasant dining experience.
Frozen Mango Sorbet: A sweet and fruity finale to cleanse the palate, leaving you with a refreshing taste after the savory main course.

Consider these delightful pairings to ensure each meal becomes a cherished memory at your table!

Make Ahead Options

Crispy Chilli Beef is ideal for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can marinate and coat the beef strips up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them covered in the refrigerator; this not only intensifies the flavors but also allows for effortless cooking when you’re ready. Additionally, you can sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger ahead and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, so they’re ready to go. When it’s time to serve, simply fry the marinated beef and follow the sauce-making steps; this ensures your Crispy Chilli Beef is just as delicious while streamlining your kitchen workflow!

Expert Tips for Crispy Chilli Beef

Beef Thickness Matters: Ensure your beef strips are cut thinly against the grain to guarantee tenderness and maximum crispiness in your Crispy Chilli Beef.
Batch Fry for Crunch: Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; cooking in batches helps maintain high heat for a perfectly crispy texture that everyone loves.
Adjust Sweetness and Heat: Don’t be shy to tweak sugar and chili levels according to your taste preferences, ensuring your dish is just right for you and your family.
Use Cornflour Wisely: Be generous with cornflour when coating the beef; it’s the secret to achieving that desired crunch, setting your dish apart from others.
Sauce Simmer Time: Let the sauce simmer to enhance flavors—this step is crucial for a rich and tangy coating that beautifully clings to the beef.

Storage Tips for Crispy Chilli Beef

Fridge: Store your remaining Crispy Chilli Beef in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: You can freeze the dish for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container for easy meal prep.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in a frying pan over medium heat to restore its crispiness, adding a splash of water to create steam as needed.

Avoid Softening: To prevent the beef from becoming soggy, consider reheating it in an air fryer if available, ensuring that delightful crunch remains intact!

Crispy Chilli Beef Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to elevate your Crispy Chilli Beef by exploring these exciting variations that add incredible flavors and textures to your dish!

Different Cuts: Swap thin-cut sirloin for Ribeye for a richer taste or Flank Steak for a leaner option.
Veggie Boost: Add Bell Peppers and Broccoli for a colorful stir-fry that complements the beef perfectly, enhancing both nutrition and crunch.
Sweet & Spicy: Incorporate Sriracha or Chili Garlic Sauce to spice things up. This twist brings an extra layer of heat that’s irresistible!
Citrusy Kick: Add Zest from an Orange or Lime juice when making the sauce. This brightens the flavors and brings a refreshing twist.
Gluten-Free: Use Tamari instead of dark soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative. This substitution ensures everyone can enjoy this dish worry-free.
Extra Crunch: Toss in Cashews or Peanuts when serving for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
For Mildness: If you’re sensitive to heat, use Mild Peppers or Omit the Chili entirely. The result will still be a flavor-packed dish that everyone loves.
Last-Minute Twist: Try serving your Crispy Chilli Beef over a bed of Butter Lettuce instead of rice for a fresh and crunchy salad-style meal that is light and satisfying.

These variations can make your dish truly unique! And if you’re looking for more delicious meal ideas, you might also enjoy my Baked Chicken Dip or customarily delightful Arancini Italian Rice for your next family gathering!

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Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best beef for Crispy Chilli Beef?
Absolutely! When choosing beef, look for thin-cut sirloin steak for the perfect tenderness. You can also opt for ribeye or flank steak if you prefer a richer flavor or something leaner. Make sure the meat has a bright red color with a good layer of marbling to ensure juiciness.

How should I store leftover Crispy Chilli Beef?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just let it cool completely before sealing it up. You want to keep it fresh and flavorful, so it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe.

Can I freeze Crispy Chilli Beef?
Of course! To freeze your delicious dish, first, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and it will keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan to restore its signature crunch.

What should I do if my beef isn’t crispy?
No worries! A few tips can help. Ensure you cut your beef thinly against the grain for better texture. Fry in batches to maintain the oil’s temperature, avoiding overcrowding, which can create steam and lead to soggy pieces. Also, using enough cornflour is crucial for achieving that crunchy coating—don’t skimp on it!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, be careful with the sauce ingredients like soy sauce, as it contains gluten. You can opt for a gluten-free soy sauce to make it suitable for those with gluten intolerance. Additionally, the dish is not suitable for pets due to the high sodium content, so keep the leftovers out of their reach.

How long can I keep Crispy Chilli Beef in the fridge?
Very important! Your Crispy Chilli Beef should be consumed within 2 days of making it for the best flavor and safety. Ensure you store it in an airtight container to maintain its texture as much as possible. If in doubt, always trust your senses: if it smells off or looks questionable, it’s best to discard it.