Crispy Chilli Beef

I first saw a version of this Crispy Chilli Beef recipe on Pinterest, and the moment I watched those golden strips of beef get tossed in that glossy, spicy sauce, I knew I had to try it. After a few tweaks and taste tests in my kitchen, it became one of those dishes that I crave whenever I want something bold, crunchy, and full of flavor. The crispy coating, the sweet heat from the sauce, and the way it all comes together so quickly—it’s pure comfort food with a little kick. It’s the kind of meal that makes any regular dinner feel just a bit more special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flavorful beef coated in a glossy, spicy sauce
• Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
• Delicious balance of heat, sweetness, and umami
• Easily customizable with different vegetables or proteins
• Tastes even better than your favorite Chinese takeout

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon minced ginger
• 1/2 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1–2 red chilies, sliced (optional for extra heat)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice the beef thinly against the grain into strips. In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Add the egg and water, whisking until smooth to form a light batter.

Step 2: Fry the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Dip the beef strips into the batter, coating evenly, and fry in small batches for 3–4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a wok or large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, onion, and bell pepper, then sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili sauce, and sugar. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the crispy beef to the pan and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes to bring everything together. Garnish with sliced red chilies and green onions. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Serving and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based alternative.
• Adjust the Heat: Add more chili sauce or fresh chilies for extra spice.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots for color and crunch.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results. Avoid microwaving to keep the beef crispy.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use another type of meat for this recipe?
A1: Yes, you can substitute chicken or pork, but beef gives the best flavor and texture.

Q2: How do I make the beef extra crispy?
A2: Ensure the oil is hot before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry the beef in small batches for an even crunch.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A3: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Fry the beef fresh just before serving.

Q4: How spicy is this dish?
A4: It has a mild-to-medium spice level. Adjust the chili sauce and fresh chilies to your liking.

Q5: Can I thicken the sauce?
A5: Yes, add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) if you want a thicker sauce.

Q6: What oil is best for frying?
A6: Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for high-heat frying.

Q7: Can I freeze Crispy Chilli Beef?
A7: You can freeze the cooked beef (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat and toss in sauce before serving.

Q8: What can I serve with Crispy Chilli Beef?
A8: It pairs perfectly with jasmine rice, fried rice, or stir-fried noodles.

Q9: Can I skip the hoisin sauce?
A9: If you don’t have hoisin sauce, use extra soy sauce and a touch of honey for sweetness.

Q10: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A10: Use less oil, opt for an air fryer, and add extra vegetables to lighten up the dish.

Conclusion

Crispy Chilli Beef is everything you love about takeout—crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying—but made right at home with simple ingredients. The combination of crispy fried beef and a bold, sticky-sweet sauce makes this dish irresistible. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough for guests. Once you make it, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner rotation.