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Crispy Chilli Beef

Crispy Chilli Beef That Beats Takeout Every Time

A mouthwatering Crispy Chilli Beef recipe that delivers takeout flavor without the guilt of deep-frying.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Beef Coating
  • 360 g thin-cut sirloin steak can also use ribeye
  • 1 small egg for vegan option, consider a flax egg
  • 4 tbsp cornflour arrowroot or potato starch are gluten-free alternatives
  • ¼ tsp salt use sea salt or kosher salt interchangeably
  • ¼ tsp black pepper freshly ground preferred
  • tsp white pepper can be omitted if not available
For Stir-Frying
  • 4 ½ tbsp sunflower oil divided
  • 1 medium onion can substitute with shallots
  • 1 red chili adjust quantity for spice preference
  • 1 tsp ginger minced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
For the Chinese Garlic Sauce
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar can use apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tbsp dark soy sauce or regular soy sauce for a slightly different taste
  • 2 tbsp tomato puree can use passata or tomato paste
  • 6 tbsp caster sugar can use brown sugar for enhanced flavor
  • 2 tbsp tomato ketchup can replace with extra tomato puree and sugar
  • 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce homemade can be used

Equipment

  • Wok
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly cut sirloin steak with the beaten small egg, ensuring each strip is coated evenly. Gradually add the cornflour, salt, black pepper, and white pepper, mixing until the beef is well-covered.
  2. Heat 3 tablespoons of sunflower oil in a wok over high heat until shimmering. Fry the coated beef strips in small batches for about 5-6 minutes or until dark brown and crispy, turning occasionally for even cooking. Drain on kitchen paper.
  3. In the same wok, add the remaining 1.5 tablespoons of sunflower oil and heat over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onion for 2 minutes until softened, then add red chili, minced ginger, and minced garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in rice vinegar, dark soy sauce, tomato puree, caster sugar, ketchup, and sweet chili sauce into the wok. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to bubble and slightly reduce.
  5. Return the cooked crispy beef to the wok, tossing gently in the sauce for 1-2 minutes until heated through and well-coated.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve immediately after cooking to maintain crispiness.

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