The tantalizing aroma of crispy chilli beef wafts through the air, teasing your taste buds with promises of crunchy textures and fiery flavors. Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent strips of beef drenched in a sweet and spicy sauce that leaves you craving more.
I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chaotic weeknight when takeout felt like the only option. But then I decided to whip up some crispy chilli beef instead, and it quickly became a family favorite that brought everyone to the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This crispy chilli beef recipe is not just quick to prepare; it’s bursting with flavor that will impress anyone
- The vibrant colors and enticing aromas make it an eye-catching dish for any gathering
- Perfectly versatile, you can serve it as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer
- Ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions alike!
I’ll never forget the look on my friends’ faces when they tasted my first attempt at making this dish; they were blown away by the explosion of flavors!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Flank Steak: Opt for lean flank steak for tenderness; slicing against the grain enhances its chewiness.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red and green for color; they add sweetness and crunch.
- Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they infuse depth into the sauce.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while enhancing umami flavor.
- Cornstarch: Essential for creating that desired crispy texture on the beef.
- Chili Flakes: Adjust to taste; they provide heat without overpowering other flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Balances out spiciness with caramelized sweetness in the sauce.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a rich nutty flavor that elevates the overall dish.
- Green Onions: For garnish; they provide freshness and color contrast on the plate.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by slicing your flank steak thinly against the grain; this will ensure each bite is tender. Chop bell peppers into strips and mince garlic along with grating fresh ginger.
Toss in Cornstarch: Place sliced beef in a bowl and sprinkle cornstarch over it. Toss well until every piece is coated—this creates that irresistible crunch we all crave.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Crisp Up That Beef: Increase heat to high and add coated beef slices to the pan. Cook until browned and crispy on all sides—about 5 minutes—don’t overcrowd the pan!
Add Bell Peppers: Toss in your colorful bell pepper strips during the last minute of cooking. This allows them to remain crisp while soaking up those delicious flavors.
Create Your Sauce: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes together before pouring over your cooked beef and peppers. Stir to combine everything well.
Now you are ready to serve! Enjoy your crispy chilli beef with jasmine rice or steamed vegetables for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love!
You Must Know
- Crispy Chilli Beef offers a delightful crunch and spicy kick, perfect for a weeknight dinner
- Its bold flavors can elevate any meal, making it a family favorite
- Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma will have everyone eagerly gathered around the table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the beef to enhance its flavor, then fry until golden brown for that perfect crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out bell peppers for snap peas or add fresh ginger for an extra zing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat on the stovetop for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the crispiest texture, ensure your beef is completely dry before frying
- Use high smoke point oil like vegetable oil to prevent burning
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking and crunchiness
Cooking this dish reminds me of hosting my first dinner party; everyone loved it, and I felt like a culinary genius for a night!
FAQ
What type of beef works best for Crispy Chilli Beef?
Tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin yield the best results with great texture.
Can I make Crispy Chilli Beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead but fry just before serving for maximum crispiness.
What side dishes go well with Crispy Chilli Beef?
Serve it with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complement its bold flavors.

Crispy Chilli Beef
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy Chilli Beef is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender beef strips coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- Flank Steak
- Bell Peppers (Red and Green)
- Fresh Ginger
- Garlic
- Soy Sauce
- Cornstarch
- Chili Flakes
- Brown Sugar
- Sesame Oil
- Green Onions
Instructions
- Thinly slice flank steak against the grain. Chop bell peppers into strips and mince garlic with grated ginger.
- Toss sliced beef in cornstarch until evenly coated for a crunchy texture.
- Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
- Increase heat to high, add coated beef, and cook until crispy and browned on all sides (approximately 5 minutes).
- Add bell pepper strips during the last minute of cooking for crispness.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, and chili flakes; pour over the beef and peppers, stirring well to combine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - Marinate the beef before cooking to enhance flavor. - Swap bell peppers for snap peas or broccoli for variety. - Ensure beef is dry before frying for maximum crispiness.