The first bite of Crispy Chilli Beef transports me straight to a bustling Chinese eatery, where the fragrant sizzle fills the air. This dish, featuring tender strips of beef enveloped in a crunchy coating and tossed in a tangy, spicy sauce, captures the essence of takeout favorites—minus the deep frying. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it brings vibrant flavors and satisfying textures to the dinner table without letting you compromise on health or time.
I first developed this recipe one evening after I craved something special but didn’t want to deal with the grease of traditional frying. With just a handful of ingredients and easy prep steps, I found a way to achieve that bold crunch I adore while keeping the cooking process light. Whether paired with fluffy jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the joy of homemade Crispy Chilli Beef!
Why is Crispy Chilli Beef a must-try?
Easy to Prepare: With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.
Authentic Flavors: Experience the tangy, spicy sauce that delivers a burst of flavor reminiscent of your favorite takeout.
No Deep Frying Needed: Enjoy that satisfying crunch without the added grease, making for a healthier dinner option.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap beef for chicken or tofu, or add vibrant veggies like bell peppers for added nutrition!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for the entire family, this recipe appeals to anyone craving something delicious and fulfilling.
Elevate your weeknight repertoire with this delightful dish. Don’t miss out on creating your own homemade version of this classic!
Crispy Chilli Beef Ingredients
For the Coating
• Thin-cut Sirloin Steak (360g / ¾ lb) – The star protein in this Crispy Chilli Beef; for variety, try ribeye or flank steak!
• Egg (1 small) – Acts as the binder for the cornflour, promoting that lovely crispy texture; consider a vegan egg substitute if needed.
• Cornflour (4 tbsp) – This is essential for getting that delightful crunch; you can use potato starch as a replacement.
• Salt (¼ tsp) – Brings out the flavor of the beef; adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
• Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Adds a mild spice; white pepper is a good swap if you prefer a more subtle heat.
• White Pepper (⅛ tsp) – Enhances the dish with gentle warmth; use this at your discretion.
For Sautéing and Sauce
• Sunflower Oil (4 ½ tbsp, divided) – Perfect for high-heat frying; vegetable or grapeseed oil can be great substitutes.
• Onion (1 medium) – Provides sweetness and balance; scallions can be a milder alternative if desired.
• Red Chili (1) – Brings heat and vibrant color; scrape out seeds for a more approachable spice level.
• Minced Ginger (1 tsp) – Gives the sauce a delightful aromatic kick; freshly grated is always best!
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Uplifts every flavor; in a pinch, garlic powder works too.
For the Sauce
• Rice Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Introduces acidity to counterbalance flavors; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute.
• Dark Soy Sauce (3 tbsp) – Delivers rich umami flavor; light soy sauce works for a milder taste.
• Tomato Puree (2 tbsp) – Provides body and depth to the sauce; feel free to swap with tomato paste if necessary.
• Caster Sugar (6 tbsp) – Balances the sauce with sweetness; consider brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Tomato Ketchup (2 tbsp) – Adds sweetness and thickness to the sauce; optional for those looking to cut processed foods.
• Sweet Chili Sauce (2 tbsp) – Infuses a lovely hint of sweetness and spice; you may replace it with hoisin sauce for a different flavor profile.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to recreate the delightful Crispy Chilli Beef right at home! Enjoy a meal that evokes the tastes and textures of your favorite takeout, but with the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself!
How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef
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Prepare Steak: In a large bowl, thoroughly coat thin strips of sirloin steak in the egg. Then, mix in cornflour, salt, black pepper, and white pepper until the beef is evenly coated. This will give it that perfect crispy texture!
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Cook Beef: Heat 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a high-heat pan. Fry the coated steak strips in batches for about 5-6 minutes, or until they turn dark brown and crispy. Drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil into the same pan. Sauté the chopped onion for about 2 minutes until it softens, then add the red chili, minced ginger, and garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Make Sauce: Stir in rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, tomato puree, caster sugar, ketchup, and sweet chili sauce into the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, creating a rich glaze.
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Combine & Serve: Return the crispy beef to the pan and toss it with the sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated. Serve this delightful dish alongside fluffy jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles for a perfect meal!
Optional: Garnish with sliced scallions for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Chilli Beef?
Bring the excitement of your dinner table to life with delightful accompaniments that complement the bold flavors of your meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice absorbs the tangy sauce beautifully, balancing the heat of the beef while providing a comforting base.
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Stir-Fried Noodles: Tossed in a light soy sauce, the noodles add a delicious chewiness and soak up the savory flavors, making every bite satisfying.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: The slight bitter crunch of bok choy contrasts wonderfully with the crispy beef, adding fresh elements and a vibrant color to your plate.
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Garlic Green Beans: A side of garlic green beans brings a crisp-tender texture that harmonizes with the dish’s richness and elevates your meal’s overall nutrition.
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Sweet-and-Sour Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds a crisp, cool element that cuts through the heat, creating a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
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Chilled Lychee or Mango Tea: Serve a sweet, fruity tea; the chilled drink counters the spiciness, refreshing your palate while enhancing your dining experience.
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Mango Sticky Rice: As a fun dessert, this sweet treat has a creamy texture that complements the savory flavors of the Crispy Chilli Beef and leaves everyone satisfied.
Expert Tips for Crispy Chilli Beef
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Cut Against the Grain: Ensure the beef is sliced thin and against the grain for maximum tenderness. This simple step will enhance the overall texture of your Crispy Chilli Beef.
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Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the beef; this prevents sogginess and promotes that coveted crunch. Cooking in batches ensures even crispiness.
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Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the heat to your liking by using milder chili varieties or omitting the seeds. A small adjustment can make a big difference in your Crispy Chilli Beef.
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Use a Flat Pan: Opt for a large, flat pan for more even cooking of the beef and perfect sautéing of aromatics. This helps avoid uneven textures in your dish.
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Let Sauce Thicken: Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly; this will create a flavorful glaze that clings beautifully to the beef, enhancing every bite!
Crispy Chilli Beef Variations
Customize your Crispy Chilli Beef to suit your tastes and dietary preferences with these delightful twists!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter protein option. This changes the flavor while keeping it just as satisfying!
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Tofu Option: For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu, pressed and sliced. Simply coat and fry until golden for a plant-based feast everyone will love.
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Veggie Boost: Bulk up your dish by adding colourful bell peppers or sugar snap peas during the sautéing step. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds a crunch!
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat with sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha in the sauce. Perfect for heat enthusiasts looking for an extra zing!
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Gluten-Free Substitute: Swap dark soy sauce with tamari to keep the dish gluten-free while maintaining its rich flavor profile. A simple change for gluten-sensitive diners!
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Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the sugar and ketchup. You can always add more later if you want a touch of sweetness!
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Nutty Addition: Toss in some cashews or peanuts just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. This will elevate your dish to a gourmet level!
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Herb Infusion: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or basil for a refreshing finish. This adds a burst of freshness that compliments the dish beautifully!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chilli Beef
Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Chilli Beef in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its flavors and tenderness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat to retain the crispy texture, adding a splash of water if needed to avoid dryness. Avoid microwaving to keep the crunch!
Make-Ahead Tip: If planning to enjoy this dish later, consider storing the sauce separately from the beef to preserve its texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
Crispy Chilli Beef is an ideal choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights. You can prepare the steak strips coated in egg and cornflour up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the coated beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its crunch. You can also chop the onion and mince the ginger and garlic ahead of time, keeping them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, fry the prepared beef, sauté the aromatics, and add the sauce as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal on the table with minimal effort!
Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right meat for Crispy Chilli Beef?
Absolutely! For the best results, select thin-cut sirloin steak, as its tenderness works perfectly in this dish. You can also experiment with ribeye, flank, or skirt steak for different textures and flavors. Always choose beef that is bright red with minimal dark spots to ensure freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover Crispy Chilli Beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure it cools down completely before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy. When ready to eat, reheat it in a pan to maintain its crispy texture.
Can I freeze Crispy Chilli Beef?
Certainly! You can freeze Crispy Chilli Beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure it’s cooled completely, then portion it out for convenience. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for the best result.
What if my beef isn’t crispy enough?
Very! If your beef isn’t achieving that perfect crunch, check these key points: make sure the beef strips are coated evenly with the egg and cornflour. Fry in batches without overcrowding the pan, as this allows hot oil to circulate properly around each piece. Additionally, ensure the oil is hot enough before cooking; it should sizzle when the beef is added.
Is this recipe suitable for special dietary needs?
Absolutely! You can make this dish gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free soy sauce and replacing the cornflour with a suitable alternative like rice flour. Also, feel free to swap beef with chicken, turkey, or tofu for a different protein choice, and make use of seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and variety.
How long can I keep the sauce separately?
The sauce for Crispy Chilli Beef can be stored in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. By storing it separately from the beef, you’ll help maintain the crispy texture of the meat when you reheat. Just toss the beef in the sauce right before serving to combine all those delightful flavors!
Crispy Chilli Beef: Your New Favorite Quick Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, thoroughly coat thin strips of sirloin steak in the egg. Mix in cornflour, salt, black pepper, and white pepper until the beef is evenly coated.
- Heat 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a high-heat pan. Fry the coated steak strips in batches for 5-6 minutes, or until dark brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Add remaining tablespoon of oil into the same pan. Sauté chopped onion for 2 minutes until softened, then add red chili, minced ginger, and garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, tomato puree, caster sugar, ketchup, and sweet chili sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Return crispy beef to the pan and toss with sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well coated. Serve alongside fluffy jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles.