Crispy Chilli Beef (with Sweet Chilli)

If you’re craving bold flavors and that addictive crunch, this Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce is your dream dinner. Think restaurant-quality, but made fresh in your kitchen with easy ingredients. Perfect for busy nights, this takeout-style meal is coated in a sticky, spicy-sweet sauce and ready in under 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make at home
• Crispy and tender texture combo
• Ideal for a flavorful dinner or weekend treat
• Better than your favorite takeout

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/2 cup sweet chilli sauce
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional)
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef (with Sweet Chilli)

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, toss sliced beef with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and let it marinate for 10 minutes. Combine cornstarch and flour, and coat the beef evenly. Shake off excess coating.

Step 2: Fry Until Golden and Crisp

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok. Fry beef in batches until crispy and golden. Drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Sticky Sweet Chilli Sauce

In a saucepan, combine sweet chilli sauce, ketchup, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer on low heat for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

Toss the crispy beef in the sauce until well coated. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and chili slices. Serve hot over rice or noodles.

Tips for Extra Crispy Chilli Beef

Use Cornstarch Over Flour

Cornstarch gives the beef that light, crispy texture that flour can’t match.

Fry in Batches

Don’t overcrowd the pan—this drops the oil temperature and makes the beef soggy.

Double Fry for Max Crunch

Fry the beef twice for an ultra-crispy coating, especially if serving later.

What to Serve with Crispy Chilli Beef

Side Dish	Pairing Notes
Steamed Jasmine Rice	Soaks up the sticky sweet sauce
Stir-fried Veggies	Adds crunch and freshness
Garlic Noodles	Perfectly balances spicy notes

Variations to Try

Crispy Chilli Chicken

Swap beef for chicken breast strips for a lighter variation.

Vegetarian Version

Use tofu or cauliflower florets for a plant-based twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.
• Freeze? Not ideal, as the texture may turn soggy.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for crispy chilli beef?

Flank steak or sirloin work best. They cook quickly and stay tender.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free soy sauce and a gluten-free flour alternative.

Is it very spicy?

The heat is mild to medium. Adjust chili quantity to your liking.

Conclusion

Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce is a winning dish that brings takeout flair into your home kitchen—quick, crispy, sticky, and absolutely addictive. It’s a must-try for dinner when you want bold flavors without the fuss.

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