Crispy Chilli Beef is a dish that never fails to tantalize the taste buds and ignite the senses. As I take my first bite, the perfect balance of crispy texture and spicy flavor transports me to the bustling streets of Asian night markets, where this dish has its roots. Originating from Chinese cuisine, crispy chilli beef has become a beloved favorite in many households around the world, thanks to its irresistible combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a fiery sauce that leaves you craving more.

What I adore about this dish is not just its bold flavors, but also its convenience. It’s a quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. The satisfying crunch of the beef, paired with the heat of the chillies, creates a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that promises to bring a taste of adventure to your dinner table!

Ingredients:

500g beef strips (flank steak or sirloin works best)
1 cup cornflour (cornstarch)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
Vegetable oil (for frying)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
2-3 red chillies (sliced, adjust to taste)
1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
2-3 spring onions (sliced, for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Preparing the Beef

1. Start by slicing the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. I find that slicing against the grain helps to keep the meat tender. If you’re having trouble slicing, pop the beef in the freezer for about 30 minutes; it firms up nicely and makes cutting easier. 2. In a large bowl, combine the cornflour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will create a crispy coating for the beef. 3. Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, mixing until you achieve a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the beef strips but not too runny. Adjust the water as needed. 4. Add the beef strips to the batter, ensuring each piece is well-coated. I like to let it marinate for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the coating to stick better.

Frying the Beef

5. While the beef is marinating, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. You want enough oil to submerge the beef strips partially. 6. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately), carefully add the beef strips in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy beef. 7. Fry the beef for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. I like to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. 8. Repeat the frying process with the remaining beef strips, ensuring the oil temperature remains consistent.

Preparing the Sauce

9. In a separate bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. This combination will give the dish a sweet and savory flavor that complements the crispy beef perfectly. 10. In the same pan used for frying (after draining excess oil), add a little more oil if needed and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the sliced red chillies and bell pepper, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly. 11. Pour the sauce mixture into the pan with the vegetables. Stir well and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Combining Everything

12. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, add the crispy beef back into the pan. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the beef is well-coated in the sauce and mixed with the vegetables. This step is crucial for getting that delicious flavor on every piece of beef. 13. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just enough to heat everything through. Be careful not to overcook the beef, as it can become tough.

Serving the Dish

14. Transfer the crispy chilli beef to a serving platter. I love to garnish it with sliced spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. 15. Serve immediately while it’s still hot and crispy. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a complete meal. 16. Enjoy your homemade crispy chilli beef! I always find that it’s a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings, and I love hearing everyone rave about how delicious it is.

Tips for Success

– For an extra kick, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce

Conclusion:

In summary, this Crispy Chilli Beef recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of tender beef, a crispy coating, and a spicy, tangy sauce creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this dish with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy noodles to soak up that delectable sauce. You can also add a side of stir-fried vegetables for a colorful and nutritious balance. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different proteins like chicken or tofu, or even add some extra heat with sliced fresh chilies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture. I truly encourage you to give this Crispy Chilli Beef recipe a shot! I’d love to hear about your experience, so don’t forget to share your thoughts and any variations you try. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make it your own, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking! Print