Crispy Chilli Beef

Crispy Chilli Beef is a dish that stands out for its delightful crunch and bold flavors. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in. With its tender beef coated in a crispy batter and tossed with vibrant vegetables and a tangy sauce, Crispy Chilli Beef is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and chili sauce creates a sweet and spicy flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over steamed rice or noodles for a hearty meal, or enjoy it as an appetizer at your next gathering.
• Crispy Texture: The crispy batter ensures each bite is satisfying and crunchy.
• Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the chili sauce to make this dish as mild or spicy as you like.

Tools and Preparation

To make this mouthwatering Crispy Chilli Beef, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large pan: Provides enough space for stir-frying the beef and ensures even cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the batter and mixing ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing the dry ingredients with wet ones.
• Slotted spoon: Perfect for draining excess oil from the fried beef, keeping it crispy.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this flavorful Crispy Chilli Beef, gather the following ingredients:

For the Beef Coating

• 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

For the Sauce

• 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

For Stir-Frying

• 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

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice your beef thinly against the grain into strips. This method ensures tenderness in every bite.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a bowl, combine:
1. Cornstarch
2. All-purpose flour
3. Baking powder
4. Salt
5. Pepper

Add the egg and water; whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Fry the Beef

Heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Dip each beef strip into the batter to coat fully. Fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

In a wok or large pan, heat sesame oil. Add:
1. Minced garlic
2. Minced ginger
3. Sliced onion
4. Sliced bell pepper

Sauté these ingredients for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Stir in:
1. Soy sauce
2. Rice vinegar
3. Hoisin sauce
4. Chili sauce
5. Sugar

Simmer this mixture for 2 minutes to meld flavors together.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add your crispy beef to the sauce mixture, tossing to coat thoroughly. Stir-fry everything together for another 2-3 minutes until well combined.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with sliced chilies and chopped green onions before serving immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Enjoy your homemade Crispy Chilli Beef!

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Beef

Crispy Chilli Beef is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice is a classic pairing that absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

On Noodles

• Serve over stir-fried noodles for a heartier dish. The chewy texture complements the crispy beef perfectly.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh twist, wrap the beef in crisp lettuce leaves. Add some chopped veggies for extra crunch and flavor.

As Appetizers

• Cut into smaller pieces and serve as finger food for parties. They are sure to be a hit!

With Dipping Sauce

• Offer a side of sweet chili or soy sauce for dipping, enhancing the savory taste of the crispy beef.

How to Perfect Crispy Chilli Beef

Achieving the perfect Crispy Chilli Beef requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for an excellent outcome.

• Use high-quality beef – Fresh sirloin or flank steak ensures tenderness and enhances flavor.
• Slice against the grain – This technique makes the meat more tender and easier to chew.
• Maintain oil temperature – Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; this creates a crispy exterior.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Fry in batches to avoid steaming the meat, which could result in sogginess.
• Adjust spice levels – Customize your dish by varying the amount of chili sauce based on your heat preference.
• Garnish generously – Fresh green onions and sliced chilies not only add color but also introduce fresh flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Chilli Beef

Pairing side dishes with Crispy Chilli Beef can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fried Rice – A flavorful fried rice with vegetables complements the spicy notes of the beef.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables – Colorful bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas provide freshness and crunch.
3. Spring Rolls – Crisp spring rolls filled with veggies make for a delightful appetizer alongside your meal.
4. Miso Soup – A warm miso soup can balance out the heat from your beef dish.
5. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks with garlic butter offer a comforting side that pairs well with any Asian-inspired meal.
6. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the beef.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Chilli Beef, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using thick beef slices: Thick slices can lead to uneven cooking. Always cut the beef thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness.
• Skipping the batter prep: A well-mixed batter is crucial for achieving crispiness. Ensure you whisk cornstarch, flour, and other ingredients until smooth before dipping.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many beef strips at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy meat. Fry in small batches for that perfect crunch.
• Not adjusting sauce heat: The spiciness of your dish depends on how much chili sauce you add. Start with a little and taste as you go to suit your preference.
• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes enhance both presentation and flavor. Don’t skip the green onions and chilies; they add freshness and color.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Chilli Beef in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crispy Chilli Beef

• For longer storage, freeze the beef in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; make sure to remove excess air before sealing.

Reheating Crispy Chilli Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy again.
• Microwave: Use medium power for 1-2 minutes, but be aware it may lose some crunch.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Crispy Chilli Beef.

What type of beef is best for Crispy Chilli Beef?

Flank steak or sirloin is ideal due to their tenderness when sliced thinly against the grain.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili sauce according to your heat preference. You can also add more sliced chilies during cooking.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of Crispy Chilli Beef?

Yes! Substitute beef with tofu or seitan, and follow the same recipe steps for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

How do I ensure my beef stays crispy?

Avoid overcrowding while frying and serve immediately after tossing in the sauce to maintain that delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Chilli Beef is not only a delightful main dish but also offers great versatility. You can customize it with different vegetables or adjust spice levels to suit your taste. Try this recipe and enjoy a flavorful meal that feels like dining out at home!