Crispy Chilli Beef is a popular dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its perfect combination of crunch and flavor. This dish is particularly known for its crispy, battered beef that is stir-fried with vibrant vegetables and coated in a savory sauce, making it a favorite in Chinese cuisine.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Crispy Chilli Beef at home. First and foremost, it’s a crowd-pleaser; whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress. The delightful crunch of the beef paired with the rich flavors of the sauce makes every bite an adventure. Additionally, this dish is customizable, allowing you to adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer chilies based on your preferences. Finally, making it at home means you can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher and healthier option compared to takeout.

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll start with thinly sliced beef that’s coated and fried until crispy. Then, it’s combined with a medley of vegetables and a flavorful sauce that brings everything together. Here’s how to do it step by step.

Ingredients:

1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
1/4 cup water
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
2 teaspoons sugar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon minced ginger
1/2 onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional for extra heat)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions:

Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef thinly against the grain into strips.
Make the Batter: In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and water, whisk until smooth.
Fry the Beef: Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Dip beef strips into the batter, coating fully, and fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the Sauce: For the sauce, heat sesame oil in a wok or large pan. Add garlic, ginger, onion, and bell pepper; sauté for 2 minutes.
Combine: Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili sauce, and sugar. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Finalize: Add crispy beef to the sauce, toss to coat. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced chilies and chopped green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Beef

Crispy Chilli Beef is best served hot and fresh. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice or alongside soft noodles for a complete meal. For added presentation, you can garnish the dish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh herbs. Pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables to brighten up the plate and offer a balance to the meal.

How to Store Crispy Chilli Beef

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to retain the beef’s crispiness—try using the oven or air fryer for the best results. Avoid microwaving as it can make the batter soggy.

Tips to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works best for this recipe as they are tender and flavorful.
Double Frying: For extra crispiness, consider frying the beef twice—after the initial frying, let it rest for a few minutes, then fry again for a minute or two.
Customize Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili sauce and fresh chilies according to your heat tolerance.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking. For a lighter version, try using chicken or tofu instead of beef. For added nutrition, throw in some broccoli, snap peas, or carrots into the stir-fry. If you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute beef with seitan and use plant-based sauces.

FAQs

1. Can I make Crispy Chilli Beef in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Just reheat and fry the beef before serving to maintain its crispiness.

2. What can I serve with Crispy Chilli Beef?
This dish pairs well with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with a simple cucumber salad for added freshness.

3. Is there a gluten-free option for the batter?
Yes! You can use gluten-free cornstarch and alternative flours such as chickpea or almond flour to make the batter gluten-free.

Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Crispy Chilli Beef as it elevates your culinary repertoire!