Crispy Chili Beef
Crispy Chili Beef is a tantalizing dish that perfectly balances savory and sweet flavors with a delightful crunch. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also offers an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more. With tender beef coated in a crispy shell and tossed in a spicy, sweet sauce, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Let’s dive into the details of making this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
The magic of Crispy Chili Beef lies in its contrasting textures and flavors. The beef is first coated in cornstarch, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The sweet chili sauce, mingled with a hint of vinegar and the kick of red pepper flakes, elevates this dish to new heights. Whether you use flank, sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon, the choice of beef cuts adds richness, while the accompanying vegetables not only enhance the flavor profile but also add a vibrant touch to the dish.
The Essentials
- 1 lb beef: Choose from filet, ribeye, flank, or sirloin for the best results.
- Peanut oil or vegetable oil: Essential for frying, giving the beef its crispy texture.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the beef’s natural flavor.
- Cup rice vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce: Provides a savory depth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce: Adds richness and color.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Brings a natural sweetness to the sauce.
- 1 cup sweet chili sauce: The star ingredient that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: For that extra kick; adjust to taste.
- 1 cup cornstarch: This is key for achieving that crispy coating.
- 2 eggs: Helps the cornstarch adhere to the beef.
- 1 tablespoon peanut oil or vegetable oil: For stir-frying the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion: Thinly sliced for sweetness and crunch.
- 1 medium carrot: Julienned or cut into strips for added texture.
- 1 red chili pepper: A Fresno chili pepper adds vibrant color and mild heat.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced for aromatic flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ginger: Freshly minced for a zesty kick.
- Toasted sesame seeds: For garnish and a nutty flavor.
- 1 bunch scallions: Sliced for garnish and freshness.
Hardware & Gadgets
- Deep frying pan or wok: Necessary for frying the beef to perfection.
- Mixing bowls: For marinating the beef and preparing the sauce.
- Whisk: To mix the egg wash and sauce ingredients.
- Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing the crispy beef from the oil.
- Cutting board and knife: For prepping the vegetables and slicing the beef.
Crispy Chili Beef: How It’s Done
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by thinly slicing your chosen cut of beef against the grain. This ensures tenderness. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then set aside.
Step 2: Create the Coating
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, Kosher salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each slice of beef into the egg wash, then dredge in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Set aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, honey, sweet chili sauce, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until well combined and set aside.
Step 4: Fry the Beef
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat peanut oil or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of beef; it should sizzle immediately. Fry the beef slices in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan, for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the beef and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
In a clean pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion, carrot, red chili pepper, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Pour the sauce over the stir-fried vegetables, stirring to combine. Allow it to simmer for a minute to thicken slightly. Then add the crispy beef back into the pan, tossing everything together until the beef is well-coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your Crispy Chili Beef to a serving platter. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions for a pop of color and crunch. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
Fresh Seasonal Changes
- Spring: Add snap peas or asparagus for a seasonal crunch.
- Summer: Incorporate bell peppers for added sweetness and color.
- Fall: Try adding roasted butternut squash for a warm, comforting twist.
- Winter: Use bok choy or broccoli for a hearty addition.
Slip-Ups to Skip
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the beef; this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy beef.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the beef; if it’s not, the coating will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Be careful with the amount of red pepper flakes; adjust according to your heat preference.
- Let the beef rest on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Storage & Reheat Guide
Crispy Chili Beef is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beef in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the beef soggy. If you have leftover sauce, store it separately and drizzle over the reheated beef.
Quick Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Chicken and pork are great alternatives and can be prepared in the same way.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and sweet chili sauce, or omit the Fresno chili pepper.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes! The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What can I serve with Crispy Chili Beef?
It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a simple salad for a complete meal.
More from the Kitchen
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – For delightful desserts and baking tips.
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- Minimalist Baker – Simple, quick recipes with a focus on plant-based options.
That’s a Wrap
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, Crispy Chili Beef is a must-try recipe that will impress your family and friends. The combination of crispy beef, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious sauce creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Crispy Chili Beef
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef. Thinly slice your chosen cut of beef against the grain. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Step 2: Create the Coating. In a mixing bowl, whisk cornstarch, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip beef into egg wash, then dredge in cornstarch. Set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce. Combine rice vinegar, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, honey, sweet chili sauce, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Whisk until combined.
- Step 4: Fry the Beef. Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok. Fry beef slices in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables. In a clean pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry onion, carrot, red chili pepper, garlic, and ginger for 3-4 minutes until tender yet crisp.
- Step 6: Combine Everything. Pour sauce over stir-fried vegetables and simmer for a minute to thicken. Add crispy beef, tossing until well-coated.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- For less spice, adjust red pepper flakes and chili pepper.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
