If you’re looking for a dish that packs a flavor punch and satisfies that craving for crunch, then look no further than Crispy Chilli Beef! This spicy, crunchy delight has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only delicious but also so quick to whip up. There’s something magical about the combination of crispy beef strips coated in a bold, tangy sauce that just makes my taste buds dance! I remember the first time I made this for my friends — their eyes lit up with every bite, and I knew I’d stumbled upon a real winner. Trust me, once you try making this dish, it just might become a favorite in your household too! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a little spice in your life.
Ingredients for Crispy Chilli Beef
- 500g beef strips
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 red chilies, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Salt to taste
How to Prepare Crispy Chilli Beef
Marinate the Beef
First things first, let’s get that beef marinating! In a bowl, combine the beef strips with the soy sauce and cornstarch. Give it a good toss to make sure each piece is well-coated. Now, let it sit for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps tenderize the beef and adds that delicious flavor we’re after. You can even pop it in the fridge for a bit if you want to take care of other prep while it soaks up all that goodness!
Fry the Beef
Once your beef has marinated, it’s time to fry! Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering (but not smoking, a little patience here goes a long way!), carefully add the marinated beef strips. Fry them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to be golden brown and crispy — that’s when you know they’re done! Once they’re all beautifully crispy, remove them from the pan and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed (you want those flavors to meld!). Toss in the minced garlic, minced ginger, sliced chilies, and bell pepper. Sauté everything for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the veggies are vibrant but still crisp. Oh, the smell is to die for!
Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Sprinkle the sugar and vinegar into the pan, and season with salt to taste. Stir well to combine all those scrumptious flavors. Then, return the crispy beef to the pan and give everything a gentle toss to ensure the beef is fully coated in that delicious sauce. Cook for another minute just to heat everything through, and voila! You’re ready to serve this beauty hot and fresh!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what you’re getting in each serving of this scrumptious Crispy Chilli Beef! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients used, so actual amounts may vary a bit depending on what you have in your pantry. Here’s the scoop:
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
This dish offers a satisfying mix of protein, healthy fats, and just the right amount of spice to keep your taste buds happy. Enjoy every flavorful bite without guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to make, ready in just about 45 minutes!
- Super easy with just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Packed with bold flavors that will make your taste buds sing.
- Gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry.
- Perfect for a weeknight dinner when you need something satisfying and delicious.
- The crunchy texture of the beef adds a delightful contrast to the vibrant veggies.
- It’s highly customizable — adjust the spice level or add your favorite veggies!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your Crispy Chilli Beef turns out absolutely amazing! Here are my top tips to help you achieve that perfect dish:
- Choose the Right Cut: For the most tender beef, I recommend using beef tenderloin or flank steak. These cuts are not only tender but also absorb flavors beautifully!
- Marinate Longer for Flavor: If you have the time, let the beef marinate for longer than 30 minutes. A couple of hours in the fridge can really enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, feel free to reduce the number of chilies or even remove the seeds for less spice. Conversely, if you love a kick, add extra chilies or a splash of chili oil!
- Get the Oil Hot: Make sure your oil is nice and hot before adding the beef. This helps achieve that crispy texture we’re after. Just be cautious — hot oil can splatter!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the beef in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy beef instead of crispy goodness.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh garlic, ginger, and vibrant bell peppers not only boosts flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dish!
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your Crispy Chilli Beef right after cooking. It’s at its crunchiest and most flavorful when enjoyed fresh!
With these little tips up your sleeve, you’re well on your way to creating a dish that will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Crispy Chilli Beef, the options are as delicious as the dish itself! I love pairing it with fluffy steamed rice or stir-fried noodles for a complete meal. The rice soaks up all that bold sauce, while the noodles add a lovely chewiness to the plate. You can’t go wrong with either!
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try serving it over a bed of crunchy salad greens. The freshness of the veggies really balances out the richness of the beef and adds a delightful crunch. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can elevate the dish even further!
Don’t forget garnishing! A handful of fresh cilantro or green onions not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the spiciness beautifully. You could even add a squeeze of lime for a zesty kick. Trust me, it’s all about those finishing touches!
So, whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests at a gathering, these suggestions will take your Crispy Chilli Beef experience to the next level. Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your delicious Crispy Chilli Beef? No problem! Storing it properly will help keep that amazing flavor and texture intact. First, let the beef cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Just make sure to separate any veggies from the beef if you can; this helps maintain their crispness. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop to keep that crispy goodness alive. Just place the beef in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of oil if needed. Stir it around for about 5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but I’d advise doing it in short bursts (around 30 seconds) and checking frequently to avoid sogginess. You can also pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes — that’s a great way to revive that crunch!
So, enjoy your Crispy Chilli Beef leftovers just as much as the first time around! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you won’t lose any of that delicious flavor or texture. Happy reheating!
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Crispy Chilli Beef: 7 Steps to Flavorful Perfection
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A spicy and crunchy beef dish with a bold flavor.
Ingredients
- 500g beef strips
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 red chilies, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate beef strips with soy sauce and cornstarch for 30 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add beef and fry until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Add garlic, ginger, chilies, and bell pepper to the pan.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add sugar, vinegar, and salt. Stir well.
- Return beef to the pan and mix until coated.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust chili quantity to taste.
- Serve with rice or noodles.
- Can use beef tenderloin for a more tender texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Crispy Chilli Beef, Beef Stir Fry, Spicy Beef Recipe