Crispy Chilli Beef: A Spicy Delight

Introduction

Crispy Chilli Beef is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender beef with a spicy, tangy sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, mix together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. Coat the beef slices evenly in this mixture.
2. Fry the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated beef slices in batches until crispy and golden brown. Remove the beef and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar. Set aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, remove excess oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
5. Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and stir-fry until tender.
6. Combine: Return the crispy beef to the skillet. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables, tossing to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef is heated through and well coated.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people and takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Add More Heat: Incorporate sliced fresh chilies or a dash of chili oil for extra spice.
• Vegetable Mix: Include other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use another cut of beef? Yes, flank steak or ribeye can also work well.
2. Is this dish very spicy? The spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of sweet chili sauce or adding fresh chilies.
3. Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
4. How can I make the beef extra crispy? Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. What can I serve with this dish? It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad.
6. How do I prevent the beef from becoming soggy? Serve immediately after coating in sauce to maintain the crispiness.
7. Can I freeze the leftovers? It’s best to eat this dish fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
8. What if I don’t have hoisin sauce? You can substitute it with a mix of soy sauce and a bit of honey.
9. How long does it take to marinate the beef? This recipe does not require marination, but letting the beef sit for 30 minutes can enhance flavor.
10. Can I use pre-cut beef? Yes, pre-cut beef strips can save time, but ensure they are thin for the best texture.

Conclusion

Crispy Chilli Beef is a delightful dish that combines crispy textures with bold flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant colors and spicy kick, it’s a fantastic addition to any dinner table. Enjoy the deliciousness!

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