Crispy sweet chilli beef

Crispy sweet chilli beef features tender slices of beef coated in a crispy batter, tossed with sweet and spicy sauces, and stir-fried with red pepper and shallots. This dish is quick to prepare, making it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

19 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 lb beef
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/3 cup salsa sauce
2 tbsp tomato sauce
1 tbsp vinegar
1/2 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
1 red pepper
4 shallots

Crispy sweet chilli beef is a delightful Asian-inspired dish that combines tender beef with a sweet and spicy chilli sauce. It's a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. This recipe is straightforward and doesn't require too many ingredients, making it an ideal choice for a delicious weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:
- Slice the beef into thin strips. Keep them as uniform as possible for even cooking.

2. Marinate the Beef:
- In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, minced garlic, and vinegar.
- Add the sliced beef to the bowl and toss to ensure all pieces are coated.
- Allow the beef to marinate for at least 20 minutes to absorb the flavors. For best results, marinate for an hour.

3. Coat the Beef:
- Place the all-purpose white wheat flour in a shallow dish.
- After marinating, drain the excess marinade from the beef.
- Dredge each beef slice in the flour, making sure each piece is fully coated.

4. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the beef is marinating, slice the red pepper and shallots into thin strips.

5. Fry the Beef:
- In a large pan or wok, heat enough oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to produce a crispy coating but not so hot that it burns quickly.
- Once the oil is hot, fry the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until the beef strips are golden brown and crispy (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

6. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, remove excess oil, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons behind.
- Add the sliced red pepper and shallots to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

7. Make the Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium.
- Add the salsa sauce and tomato sauce to the pan with the vegetables. Stir well to combine and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.

8. Combine and Serve:
- Add the crispy beef back into the pan. Toss everything together to coat the beef evenly with the sauce and vegetables.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

9. Serve:
- Transfer the Crispy Sweet Chilli Beef to a serving platter.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (optional) and serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Crispy sweet chilli beef is an enticing and flavorful dish that is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. With its crispy texture and harmonious balance of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that's surprisingly easy to make at home. Use our tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, and enjoy this tasty take on a classic flavor combination.

Crispy sweet chilli beef FAQ:

How long should I fry the beef for crispy results?

Fry the beef strips for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. It’s important to fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

What can I use instead of soy sauce due to dietary restrictions?

If you're avoiding soy sauce, you can substitute it with coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Adjust the amount to taste, as these substitutes may vary in saltiness.

How should I store leftovers of the Crispy Sweet Chilli Beef?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat the beef in a pan to restore its crispness before serving.

What pan size is recommended for frying the beef?

A large skillet or wok is recommended to provide enough space for frying the beef without overcrowding, which helps achieve even cooking and crispiness.

How can I tell if the beef is cooked through?

The beef should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Ensure it's cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Tips:

- For the crispiest beef, make sure to toss the beef strips well in the flour and shake off any excess before frying.

- Slice the beef thinly against the grain. This ensures the meat is tender and cooks quickly.

- You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less salsa sauce, depending on your preference.

- Use a high smoke point oil like vegetable or peanut oil for frying to get a nice, crispy texture.

- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 440kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 20g
Fiber 2.49g
Sugar 4.89g
Fat 22g

Crispy sweet chilli beef