Description
Crispy Chilli Beef is a popular Asian-inspired dish featuring thinly sliced beef coated in cornstarch, fried to a crispy perfection, and tossed in a flavorful sweet, spicy, and savory chili sauce. This quick and easy recipe makes for a perfect weeknight dinner served alongside steamed rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Beef and Coating
- 300 g beef, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
Sauce and Vegetables
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef coating: Pat the beef slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Toss the beef in cornstarch until each piece is well coated, ensuring an even, crispy texture once fried.
- Fry the beef: Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, fry the coated beef slices in batches until they turn crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Sauté vegetables and aromatics: In a separate large pan or wok, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add sliced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften slightly and garlic becomes fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Add soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, ketchup, and chili flakes to the vegetables. Stir well to combine and let the sauce heat through and slightly thicken, about 2 minutes.
- Toss beef with sauce: Return the crispy fried beef to the pan with the sauce and vegetables. Toss quickly and thoroughly to coat the beef evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the sauce to cling to the beef.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately with steamed rice or your choice of noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Slice beef thinly across the grain for the best texture and tenderness.
- Adjust chili flakes quantity to increase or decrease heat according to your preference.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles to complement the rich flavors.
- If preferred, substitute beef with chicken or tofu for a different variation.
- Ensure oil temperature is hot enough before frying to get crispiness without greasiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
