Crispy Chilli Beef: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Winner

Crispy Chilli Beef is a delicious dish featuring tender, crispy beef strips in a spicy, tangy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Beef

1 pound Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak Choose tender cuts for optimal flavor and texture.

For the Batter

1 cup Cornstarch Essential for creating that irresistible crispy outer layer.
1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour Works with cornstarch to give the batter structure.
1 large Egg Binds the batter ingredients and helps achieve the desired crispiness.
1/2 cup Water Adjusts the consistency of the batter to your liking.
1 teaspoon Baking Powder Adds air for a lighter, crunchier texture.
1/2 teaspoon Salt Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1/2 teaspoon Pepper Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

For Frying

1 cup Vegetable Oil Crucial for frying; make sure it’s hot for perfect crispiness.

For the Sauce

1/4 cup Soy Sauce Provides a rich umami flavor that ties everything together.
2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Balances the sweetness and heat with its acidity.
2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce Adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
1 tablespoon Chili Sauce Gives the dish its signature heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
1 tablespoon Sugar Balances the flavors and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
2 cloves Minced Garlic Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavors.
1 teaspoon Minced Ginger Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavors.

For the Vegetables

1 medium Onion Add texture and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
1 medium Bell Pepper Add texture and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
2 whole Red Chilies Optional for an extra kick; include based on your heat preference.

For Garnish

1 tablespoon Sesame Oil Adds a nutty flavor to the stir-fry.
2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions For a fresh, vibrant finish.

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
deep pan or wok
whisk
paper towels
thermometer

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Begin by slicing the beef sirloin or flank steak thinly against the grain into strips about ¼ inch thick. Pat the strips dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly before adding in the egg and enough water to create a smooth, thick batter.
Fry the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). Carefully dip each beef strip into the batter, allowing the excess to drip off, and then fry in batches for 3-4 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: In a clean wok or large skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, and sliced onion, stirring for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Combine Sauce Ingredients: Next, stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, chili sauce, and sugar. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for about 2 minutes.
Finish the Dish: Once the sauce is ready, add the crispy beef strips into the wok, tossing them gently to coat each piece evenly. Stir-fry together for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Dish up the Crispy Chilli Beef garnished with freshly chopped green onions and additional red chilies, if desired. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 35mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, serve immediately to maintain crispiness. Adjust spice levels and add additional vegetables to suit preferences.

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