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Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe

This Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe is quick, flavorful, and tastes just like your favorite takeout — only better! Tender beef strips are fried until golden and tossed in a sweet, spicy, and sticky sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you crave bold Asian flavors at home.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Method: Stir-fry
Cuisine: Asian (Chinese-inspired)
Keyword: Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe
Servings: 5
Calories: 385kcal

Equipment

  • Large wok or skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  • 1 lb 450 g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • ½ cup cornstarch for coating
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 2 –3 red chillies thinly sliced (adjust to spice level)
  • 3 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp water optional, for sauce consistency
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
  • 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Prepare the beef: Pat beef slices dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper, then coat evenly in cornstarch.
  • Heat the oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  • Fry the beef: Add the beef in small batches, cooking for 2–3 minutes per side until crispy and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Make the sauce: In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and chillies. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add sauce ingredients: Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and water if needed. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened.
  • Combine beef and sauce: Return fried beef to the pan and toss until every piece is coated in the sticky chilli glaze.
  • Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top. Serve hot with rice or noodles.

Notes

Slice beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
To make it extra crispy, fry twice — once to cook through, then again for 30 seconds to crisp up.
For a healthier version, air fry or bake the coated beef at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the number of chillies.
Add sliced bell peppers or onions for more texture and color.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 385 kcal
Protein 28 g
Carbohydrates 24 g
Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 70 mg
Fiber 1 g
Sugar 10 g
Sodium 750 mg