How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef 🍖🌶️

Craving a crispy, spicy, and flavorful dish? Look no further than crispy chilli beef! This popular Chinese-inspired dish is bursting with crispy textures, savory flavors, and just the right amount of spice. In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through each step to help you create the perfect crispy chilli beef, right at home.

Ingredients for Crispy Chilli Beef 🥩

For the Beef:

• 500 grams of thinly sliced beef (sirloin or flank steak works best)
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder (for extra crispiness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon of soy sauce
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup of cold water (adjust as needed)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of chili paste or chili garlic sauce 🌶️
• 2-3 fresh red chilies, sliced (optional for extra heat)
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional for crunch)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil (adds flavor)
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (for thickening)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Step-by-Step Preparation 🥢

1. Marinate the Beef 🥩

Start by marinating the beef. In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the beef to absorb the flavors and tenderize.

2. Make the Batter 🍚

In another bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, and baking powder. Add the egg and stir to combine. Gradually add cold water while whisking until you get a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the beef.

3. Fry the Beef 🍳

Heat enough vegetable oil in a pan or wok for deep frying. Once the oil is hot, dip each piece of marinated beef into the batter and carefully fry them in batches. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

4. Prepare the Sauce 🥄

In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and sliced red chilies. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and chili paste. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water and add it to the sauce.

5. Combine the Beef and Sauce 🍲

Once the sauce is thick and bubbly, add the crispy beef to the pan and toss to coat it well. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion (optional), and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

6. Finish and Serve 🍽️

Drizzle sesame oil over the dish and give it one final toss. Your crispy chili beef is ready! Serve it hot with steamed rice 🍚 and enjoy this flavorful, spicy meal.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chilli Beef 👨‍🍳

• Thin Slicing: Ensure the beef is sliced thinly to allow for quicker cooking and better texture.
• Cold Batter: Use cold water to make the batter, as this helps achieve that crisp, light texture.
• Double Frying: For an extra crunch, try double frying the beef. Fry once, let it rest, then fry again for 1-2 minutes until crispy.
• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the chili paste and fresh chilies to your taste for a milder or spicier dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

What type of beef is best for crispy chilli beef? Flank steak or sirloin is ideal as they are tender and easy to slice thinly. This will give the perfect texture when fried.

Can I make crispy chilli beef without deep frying? Yes, you can pan-fry the beef with a little oil. However, deep frying gives it that signature crispiness.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, heat the sauce and toss the fried beef in it.

Is there a vegetarian version of crispy chilli beef? Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with tofu, mushrooms, or even jackfruit for a vegetarian or vegan option.

What side dishes pair well with crispy chilli beef? Steamed rice, fried rice 🍚, or even noodles 🍜 go perfectly with crispy chili beef. You can also add a side of sautéed veggies or a simple salad 🥗.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftover crispy chilli beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place the beef in a hot pan to crisp it up again.

Conclusion 🎉

Crispy chilli beef is a delightful dish full of flavor, heat, and crunch. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply craving something spicy, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable to your spice preferences. Enjoy a delicious homemade meal that tastes just like your favorite takeout! 😋

Want More Delicious Recipes?
Check out other tasty recipes like Healthy Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe   for more flavorful meals! 🥡