Crispy Chilli Beef

This Crispy Chilli Beef is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Chinese takeaway straight to your kitchen in just 30 minutes. Featuring perfectly crispy strips of steak enveloped in a tangy, spicy sauce, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something flavorful and satisfying. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for a last-minute dinner idea.
• Flavor Explosion: The balance of spices and sauces creates a deliciously tangy and spicy flavor profile that rivals restaurant favorites.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice or noodles, making it adaptable to your preference or what you have on hand.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and crispy texture make this dish visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests.
• Healthier than Takeout: You control the ingredients, allowing you to make a lighter version without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Crispy Chilli Beef, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan or wok
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Kitchen paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick frying pan or wok: Ensures that the beef doesn’t stick while cooking, resulting in perfectly crispy pieces.
• Slotted spoon or tongs: Helps in safely removing the crispy beef from hot oil without losing its crunch.

Ingredients

This Crispy Chilli Beef features perfectly crispy strips of steak in a tangy spicy sauce, rivaling your favorite Chinese takeaway in just 30 minutes.

For the Beef

• 360g (¾ lbs) thin-cut sirloin steaks (approx 3 thin steaks), cut into thin strips
• 1 small egg
• 4 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ⅛ tsp white pepper
• 4½ tbsp sunflower oil, divided

For the Sauce

• 1 medium onion, peeled and sliced into thin strips
• 1 red chilli, finely sliced (discard seeds if you don’t like it too hot)
• 1 tsp minced ginger
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 3 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato puree (tomato paste in US)
• 6 tbsp caster sugar (superfine sugar)
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce (Thai-style recommended)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Place the thinly sliced steak strips in a bowl and add the egg.
2. Mix together thoroughly to coat all the beef in egg.

Step 2: Coat the Beef

1. Add the cornflour, salt, black pepper, and white pepper to the beef.
2. Toss everything together until fully coated; expect a sticky mixture.

Step 3: Fry the First Batch

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large frying pan or wok over high heat until very hot.
2. Add half the beef strips one at a time; spread them out.
3. Fry until dark brown and crispy for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally but avoid moving too much for maximum crispiness.

Step 4: Drain Excess Oil

1. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the crispy beef from the pan.
2. Place it in a bowl lined with kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.
3. Repeat with another tablespoon of oil for the second batch of beef.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

1. Once all beef is cooked and set aside, add remaining ½ tablespoon of oil to the same pan on medium heat.
2. Add sliced onion; cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Stir in finely chopped chilli, minced ginger, and minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 6: Combine Sauce Ingredients

1. Add rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, tomato puree, sugar, tomato ketchup, and sweet chilli sauce into the pan.
2. Turn up heat; let bubble for a couple of minutes until it starts to reduce slightly and thicken.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Return crispy beef to pan; stir well to coat in sauce.
2. Heat through for about 1-2 minutes until everything is hot.

Serve immediately with rice or noodles for an unforgettable meal!

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Beef

Crispy Chilli Beef is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick meal or a more elaborate dining experience, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed rice complements the spicy sauce perfectly, balancing the flavors of the crispy beef.

Over Noodles

• Serve the beef over egg noodles or rice noodles for a hearty dish that absorbs the delicious sauce.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use fresh lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with crispy beef and additional toppings for a fun and healthy option.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Add chopped cilantro or green onions on top for a burst of freshness and extra flavor.

As Part of a Stir-Fry Platter

• Combine with assorted veggies like bell peppers and broccoli for a colorful and nutritious meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer sweet chilli sauce or soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick or added flavor.

How to Perfect Crispy Chilli Beef

Achieving the perfect Crispy Chilli Beef requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly every time.

• Use Thin Cuts: Thin-cut sirloin steaks ensure quick cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Coat Evenly: Make sure each piece of beef is well-coated with cornflour for that signature crunch.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to keep the temperature high, which will help achieve better crispiness.
• Control Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding beef; this prevents sticking and sogginess.
• Stir Gently: While frying, stir occasionally but avoid too much movement to maintain the beef’s crisp texture.
• Balance Flavors: Adjust sugar and vinegar levels in the sauce to achieve your desired level of sweetness and tanginess.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Chilli Beef

Crispy Chilli Beef pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice, vegetables, and egg, fried together until golden.
2. Egg Rolls: Crunchy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat make for a great appetizer.
3. Spring Rolls: Light and crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a refreshing contrast.
4. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Quick-sautéed seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrition to your plate.
5. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut-flavored rice adds depth and richness to your meal.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Chewy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter provide a comforting touch.
7. Asian Slaw: A crunchy salad with cabbage and carrots dressed in sesame dressing enhances freshness.
8. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers warmth and umami flavor alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crispy Chilli Beef, avoiding common mistakes will ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

• Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many beef strips at once, they will steam instead of fry, resulting in less crispiness. Fry in batches to achieve that perfect crunch.
• Skipping the egg coating: The egg helps the cornflour stick to the beef, ensuring a crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Not heating the oil enough: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the beef won’t crisp up properly. Make sure your oil is sizzling before adding the meat.
• Ignoring cooking times: Overcooking or undercooking can spoil your dish. Follow the time recommendations closely for perfectly cooked beef.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: The flavor of your sauce relies heavily on the soy sauce used. Opt for a good-quality dark soy sauce for a richer taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crispy Chilli Beef in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crispy Chilli Beef

• For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crispy Chilli Beef

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Be aware that this may soften the crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make my Crispy Chilli Beef spicier?

You can increase the amount of red chilli or add some chilli flakes to enhance the heat level in your dish.

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe uses beef, you can substitute with chicken or pork if you prefer.

What should I serve with Crispy Chilli Beef?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a complete meal.

How do I store leftovers of Crispy Chilli Beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Chilli Beef is not only quick and easy to prepare but also brings vibrant flavors that rival your favorite takeaway. This versatile dish allows for customization; feel free to adjust spice levels or pair it with different sides. Give it a try and experience homemade perfection!