Beef with chilli and basil

Beef with chilli and basil is a vibrant stir-fry combining tender beef, spicy chilies, and fragrant basil. This dish balances heat and freshness, making it perfect for any occasion.

02 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp peanut oil
1 lb beef
1/3 cup salsa sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp fish sauce
1 onion
1 red pepper
2 red hot chili peppers
1/2 cup basil leaves

Beef with chili and basil is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together tender beef, spicy chili peppers, and fragrant basil leaves. This recipe is a perfect combination of heat and freshness, creating a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for a gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the beef.
- Slice the onion and red bell pepper into thin strips.
- Thinly slice the red hot chili peppers.
- Tear or roughly chop the basil leaves.

2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

3. Cook the Beef:
- Add the sliced beef to the skillet or wok.
- Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

4. Stir-fry the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet or wok, add the sliced onion, red bell pepper, and red hot chili peppers.
- Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

5. Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet or wok with the vegetables.
- Add the salsa sauce, salt, and fish sauce.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

6. Add Basil Leaves:
- Stir in the basil leaves and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the leaves are wilted and the dish is fragrant.

7. Serve:
- Transfer the beef with chili and basil to a serving dish.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or your choice of accompaniment.

Cooking Beef with Chili and Basil is a straightforward and rewarding experience. The harmony of the spicy chili, savory beef, and aromatic basil will make this dish a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Experiment with the seasoning to match your personal preference, and enjoy the delicious results of this vibrant dish.

Beef with chilli and basil FAQ:

How long should I cook the beef for?

Cook the sliced beef for about 3-4 minutes in the skillet or wok until it is browned and cooked through. Ensure it's no longer pink in the center for safe doneness.

Can I substitute the peanut oil?

Yes, you can substitute peanut oil with vegetable oil, canola oil, or any other neutral cooking oil. Just be mindful that it might slightly alter the flavor profile.

What type of beef works best for this recipe?

Tender cuts like flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal for stir-frying as they cook quickly and remain juicy. Avoid tougher cuts that require longer cooking times.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to maintain texture and flavor.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, you can reduce the number of red hot chili peppers or omit them altogether. You can also replace the salsa with a milder sauce to decrease heat.

Tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to get the best flavors. Fresh basil and ripe chili peppers make a significant difference.

- Slice the beef thinly and uniformly for a quick and even cooking process.

- If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds before chopping.

- Prepare all ingredients and have them ready before you start cooking. This will make the cooking process smooth and quick.

- Adjust the salt and fish sauce to taste, keeping in mind that fish sauce has a strong flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 440kcal
Protein 36g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 1.84g
Sugar 5.00g
Fat 30g

Beef with chilli and basil