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Crispy Chilli Beef Recipe

Crispy Chilli Beef (with Sweet Chilli)

Make restaurant-style Crispy Chilli Beef at home! Tender beef strips coated in a crunchy crust and tossed in a sticky sweet chilli glaze — perfect for weeknight dinners or takeout cravings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crispy Beef
  • 1 lb 450 g flank or sirloin steak — sliced thinly across the grain
  • 3 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 egg white optional, helps the coating cling better
  • 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
  • A pinch of salt and pepper
For the Sweet Chilli Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons sweet chilli sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 small red chilli sliced (optional for extra heat)
For Garnish
  • Sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • A sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Method
 

Step 1 – Prepare the Beef
  1. Pat beef strips dry with paper towels.
  2. Toss with cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add egg white if using and mix until evenly coated.
  4. Let rest for 10 minutes.
Step 2 – Fry the Beef
  1. Heat oil in a wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Fry beef in small batches until golden and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per batch.
  3. Drain on paper towels.
  4. (Optional) Double fry for extra crunch.
Step 3 – Make the Sweet Chilli Sauce
  1. In a clean pan, combine sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sliced red chilli.
  2. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4 – Toss and Serve
  1. Add fried beef to the sauce and toss quickly to coat evenly.
  2. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
  3. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Notes

  • Cook the beef in small batches to maintain its crispiness.
  • Pat the beef dry before coating — moisture prevents crunch.
  • Adjust chilli heat to taste.
  • Double frying gives extra crunch, but is optional.
  • Best served immediately for optimal texture.