The scent of sizzling beef fills the air as the crispy coating bubbles in the oil, promising that each bite will be a delightful crunch. This Homemade Crispy Chilli Beef takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish and delivers a tantalizing balance of textures and flavors. It’s the perfect dish for those evenings when you’re craving something spicy and satisfying.
This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious appetizer for gatherings. If you want to prepare in advance, you can fry the beef earlier and toss it in the sauce just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The beef strips turn perfectly crispy while staying juicy inside.
- A quick 30-minute recipe that’s easy to whip up.
- The combination of chili sauce and soy sauce gives it a flavorful kick.
- Easy to customize with your choice of vegetables or heat level.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your delicious dish.
For the Beef
- 500g beef strips
- 1/2 cup cornflour
- 1/4 cup plain flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Sauce
- 2-3 tablespoons chilli sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
For Garnish
- Spring onions for garnish
You can use chicken or tofu instead of beef.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Cornflour: can use all-purpose flour
- Chilli sauce: swap for sriracha for more heat
- Soy sauce: use tamari for a gluten-free option
- Spring onions: chives can be a fresh alternative
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for a delicious meal.
Coat the beef
In a bowl, mix cornflour, plain flour, beaten egg, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Prepare the beef
Coat the beef strips in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly covered.
Fry the beef
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and fry the beef until golden and crispy, about 4-5 minutes.
Sauté the aromatics
In another pan, sauté garlic and onion until translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes.
Mix the sauce
Add chili sauce and soy sauce to the pan, then include the crispy beef. Toss everything to coat well in the sauce.
Garnish and serve
Garnish with spring onions before serving to add a fresh element.
How to Store It
Fridge: store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, beef loses its crispness.
Reheat: reheat in a hot pan for 3-4 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the oil is hot enough to prevent the beef from absorbing too much oil during frying.
- Use a non-stick pan to make cleanup easier.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry the beef in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the amount of chili sauce to suit your preference for heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Delicious as an appetizer at a game day gathering.
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