Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce Recipe

If you are craving something that combines fiery spice, satisfying crunch, and a luscious tang, then look no further than Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce. This dish is a sensational blend of tender beef strips coated in a crisp golden crust, tossed with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables and a luscious, sticky sweet chilli sauce that will have your taste buds dancing. Every bite delivers an explosion of flavor and texture that feels like a warm, comforting hug — perfect for a family dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, adding crunch, freshness, and the perfect balance between sweet and spicy.

• 200 g Rump or Sirloin steak: Choose a tender cut to ensure your beef stays juicy under that crispy coating.
• 1 Egg: Acts as the perfect binder to help the flour stick to the beef strips for that coveted crunch.
• 1 cup Corn or Potato Starch: The secret to achieving a light and crisp texture without heaviness.
• ½ Sweet Onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation to the stir-fry.
• ½ Bell Pepper: Provides a splash of color and a sweet crunch that cuts through the spicy sauce.
• 2-3 Spring Onions: Offer both color and a mild zing that brightens the dish.
• 2-3 Bird’s Eye or Hot Chillies: For that fiery kick that awakens the palate.
• 1 tbsp Light Soy Sauce: Lends a savory depth and umami richness to the marinade and sauce.
• 1 tsp Ginger Garlic Paste: Heightens the aromatic notes with sharp warmth and zest.
• 1 tsp Sesame Oil: Adds a subtle nutty flavor that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
• ½ tsp Sugar: Balances the heat with just a touch of sweetness.
• ¼ tsp White Pepper: Provides gentle heat and a peppery aroma.
• 3 tbsp Sweet Chilli Sauce: The crowning glory that ties together the spicy, sweet, and tangy elements.
• 2 tbsp Ketchup: Adds a tangy richness and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tbsp Light Soy Sauce: More savory depth for the stir-fry sauce blend.
• 1 tsp Vinegar (white or rice): Injects a bright acidity that cuts through richness.
• 1 tbsp Sugar: Enhances caramelization and balances savory flavors.
• ½ tsp Salt: Essential for seasoning and flavor enhancement.

How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by cutting your selected steak into thin strips — this ensures each bite has maximum surface area for crispiness. Combine the beef strips with the marinade ingredients: light soy sauce, ginger garlic paste, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Mix well and let it sit for 15 minutes. This step flavors the beef deeply and tenderizes it slightly, setting the stage for that perfect crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Stir Fry Sauce

While the beef marinates, whisk together the stir fry sauce ingredients in a small bowl: sweet chilli sauce, ketchup, light soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Having this ready means you can add it at just the right moment to coat the crispy beef beautifully.

Step 3: Coat the Beef

Break an egg into the marinated beef and mix thoroughly — the egg acts as glue for the starch coating. Then toss the beef strips in corn or potato starch, shaking off any excess. This coating is key to getting that irresistible crunch when fried.

Step 4: Deep Fry Until Crispy

Heat oil to about 350°F (175°C) for deep frying. Carefully add the coated beef strips and fry for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn a golden, crispy brown. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Once done, transfer the beef onto paper towels or a cooling rack to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Stir Fry Vegetables and Combine

Heat a wok or large pan over medium-high heat with a dash of oil. Toss in the sliced sweet onion and stir briefly until fragrant, then add the bell pepper slices. After a few seconds, add the fried beef strips back to the pan. Pour in the prepared stir fry sauce, then throw in the spring onions and fresh bird’s eye chillies. Stir vigorously for 1 to 2 minutes over high heat to let everything mingle and the sauce thicken slightly, coating each crispy beef strip lovingly.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Transfer your Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce to a serving plate and enjoy it immediately while hot and crispy. The aroma alone will have everyone eager to dig in!

How to Serve Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds an extra nutty crunch, while fresh coriander or chopped spring onions bring freshness and a pop of green. Thinly sliced fresh chillies can also be scattered on top to dial up the heat if desired.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steaming bowls of jasmine rice or simple stir-fried noodles that soak up the sweet chilli sauce perfectly. For a refreshing contrast, a crisp cucumber salad or steamed broccoli are wonderful accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce in lettuce cups for a fun and hands-on meal. You can also pile it onto a platter alongside other Asian-inspired finger foods to create an impressive shared feast. Adding sliced avocado or crunchy peanuts on top can elevate the dining experience further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover beef in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days to retain its crispy texture and vibrant flavor.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked crispy beef strips separately without the sauce to preserve crunchiness. The sauce can be frozen in a different container. This way, you can reheat and combine fresh anytime.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat beef in a hot, lightly oiled skillet to bring back some crispiness rather than microwaving. Add the sauce gently warmed separately and toss together right before serving to keep everything fresh and delightful.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce?

Absolutely! While rump or sirloin are recommended for tenderness, flank or skirt steak can also be great options if sliced thinly against the grain.

What if I don’t have corn or potato starch?

You can use all-purpose flour in a pinch, but the coating may be slightly less crispy. Potato or corn starch gives that light, crackly texture.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level is adjustable. You can reduce the bird’s eye chillies or omit them for a milder version, while the sweet chilli sauce keeps a nice balance of sweet and spice.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your starch is pure corn or potato starch to keep it gluten-free and delicious.

How long does it take to prepare Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce?

From marinating to serving, it takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly irresistible about Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli Sauce — it’s a dish full of vibrant flavors, textures, and colors that feel both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re treating yourself on a cozy night in or dazzling friends at your next dinner party, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite. So go ahead, give it a try and savor every crunchy, spicy, sweet bite!

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