Easy Crispy Chilli Beef: A Delicious Family Favorite!

Okay, let’s do this! Time to share my family’s favorite Crispy Chilli Beef recipe!

I remember the first time I tried making Crispy Chilli Beef. My oldest was going through a phase where all she wanted was takeout, and I was determined to find a healthier, homemade solution. I knew I needed something that tasted amazing but wouldn’t take all night to prepare. The first attempt was… well, let’s say the beef wasn’t exactly crispy. It was more like…soggy chili beef! 😂 Still, the flavor was promising, and the kids actually ate it, which was a win in itself. That initial attempt spurred me on, and I tweaked the recipe until it became the Crispy Chilli Beef sensation it is today!

Through that experience, I learned that even my pickiest eater would try new foods if they were presented in a fun, appealing way. Plus, I realized I could sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing! This Crispy Chilli Beef is a nutrition win because it’s packed with protein, and I can easily add a rainbow of veggies to the stir-fry. It’s become a staple in our house – quick, easy, and satisfying!

This Crispy Chilli Beef is one of those sanity-saving nutrition meals that I can whip up even on the busiest weeknights. It ticks all the boxes: it’s quick, it’s tasty, and it’s packed with good stuff. It’s also a meal that the whole family enjoys, which, let’s be honest, is a rare and beautiful thing. 😉 If your family likes it spicy, you’ll really love this Chili beef recipe.

And you know what? This Crispy Chilli Beef is a far cry from the greasy takeout version. I’m talking about real ingredients, cooked with love (and a little bit of patience!), to create a meal that’s both good for you and incredibly delicious. It’s all about finding that balance, right?

If you’re a busy mom looking for simple nutrition solutions, you’re in the right place. Let’s get cooking and create some dinnertime nutrition wins together!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this family-friendly Crispy Chilli Beef. Trust me, this Crispy Chilli Beef ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity!

Ingredients for Crispy Chilli Beef: flank steak, cornstarch, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, red chilies, bell peppers, brown sugar, ketchup, chilli sauce, water, green onions, and sesame seeds.
  • 1.5 lbs flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain: This is your protein powerhouse! Flank steak is lean and flavorful, making it perfect for this dish.
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch: This is the secret to achieving that perfect crispy texture.
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium): Adds umami and helps to tenderize the beef. For a gluten-free option, try tamari.
  • 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar: Provides a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil: For stir-frying.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything is better with garlic!
  • 1 inch ginger, grated: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
  • 2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference): Adds the “chilli” to the Crispy Chilli Beef! Remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Adds sweetness and color. My family gets extra nutrition when I add different color peppers.
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced: More veggies, more goodness!
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar: For that signature sweet and savory flavor.
  • 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp chilli sauce (like sriracha): For an extra kick!
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium): To balance the sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup water: To thin out the sauce.
  • Green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh finishing touch.
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor.

No worries if you don’t have red chilies – I use a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra nutrients in my Crispy Chilli Beef sometimes. You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store – this Crispy Chilli Beef proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. For another Chinese beef dish, you can consider adding broccoli to the stir fry for additional fibre.

Here’s a Crispy Chilli Beef nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: I always double the veggies! I sneak in extra carrots, zucchini, or even some finely chopped broccoli. The kids never notice, and it adds a boost of vitamins and minerals. Trust me, this is a game-changer.

Let’s Make it Happen!

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this delicious and easy Crispy Chilli Beef.

  1. Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, toss the thinly sliced flank steak with cornstarch, 1 tbsp soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil. Make sure the beef is evenly coated. This helps to create that amazing crispy texture we’re after. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Fry the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy shredded beef texture!
  3. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
  4. Add the Chilies and Peppers: Add the chopped red chilies and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the peppers are slightly softened. This is where that amazing aroma starts to fill your kitchen!
  5. Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, ketchup, chilli sauce, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and water. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Combine and Coat: Add the fried Crispy Chilli Beef back into the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Make sure every piece of beef is covered in that delicious, sticky sauce!
  7. Serve and Garnish: Serve the Crispy Chilli Beef immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Crispy Chilli Beef usually takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. While your Crispy Chilli Beef is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family! That’s the perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch! Your Crispy Chilli Beef should smell nourishing by now. Don’t worry if your Crispy Chilli Beef looks a little sticky – that’s exactly what we want! Here’s where I used to struggle with my Crispy Chilli Beef – learn from my experience! I always tried to fry all the beef at once, which resulted in a soggy mess. Now I know to fry it in batches to maintain that perfect crispiness.

How We Love to Eat This!

My family absolutely loves this Crispy Chilli Beef, and I’ve found some serving suggestions that make it even more of a hit. Here’s how we make the most of this nutritious and delicious meal!

The kids devour this nutritious Crispy Chilli Beef when I serve it with steamed rice and a side of roasted broccoli. The rice soaks up all that delicious sauce, and the broccoli adds a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins. Another great side is a simple cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette – it adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef.

This Crispy Chilli Beef is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! It’s also a great option for a casual weekend dinner with friends. I often make a big batch and serve it buffet-style with rice, noodles, and a variety of vegetable sides. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

For presentation, I like to arrange the Crispy Chilli Beef on a platter, garnished with plenty of fresh green onions and sesame seeds. A sprinkle of extra chilli flakes adds a pop of color and a little extra heat for those who like it spicy. I also like to serve it in individual bowls over rice or noodles, making it easy for everyone to dig in.

Leftovers (if there are any!) are fantastic the next day. I often use them to make Crispy Chilli Beef lettuce wraps for lunch. Just add some chopped lettuce, carrots, and a drizzle of sesame dressing for a quick and healthy meal. You can also reheat the leftovers and serve them over rice or noodles for another easy dinner.

For a seasonal twist, try adding some stir-fried asparagus in the spring or some roasted butternut squash in the fall. These seasonal veggies add extra nutrients and flavor to the dish. This recipe reminds me of Crispy Chilli Beef | All Ways Delicious, which uses a similar set of ingredients!

One time, I served this Crispy Chilli Beef to a group of friends, and they couldn’t believe it was homemade! They raved about the flavor and the crispy texture. One friend even asked for the recipe, which I happily shared. It’s always so rewarding when people enjoy my cooking, especially when it’s a dish that I know is both delicious and nutritious.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

I know you busy moms have questions, so here are some answers to the most common ones I get about this Crispy Chilli Beef.

Is this Crispy Chilli Beef really nutritious enough for growing kids? Absolutely! This dish is packed with protein from the beef, and you can easily add a variety of vegetables to boost the nutrient content. I always sneak in extra veggies like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli. Plus, by making it at home, you control the ingredients and can avoid the excess sodium and unhealthy fats found in takeout versions.

What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Crispy Chilli Beef? I get it! Picky eaters can be a challenge. Try serving the beef with a side of rice or noodles that they already enjoy. You can also cut the beef into small, bite-sized pieces and arrange them in a fun way on their plate. Another trick is to let them help with the cooking process – kids are often more likely to try something they helped make. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for this Korean BBQ Beef Bowl recipe.

Can I meal prep this Crispy Chilli Beef for busy weeks ahead? Yes, you can! You can prep the beef and the sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry the beef and combine it with the sauce. You can also cook the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. The beef may not be as crispy when reheated, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this Crispy Chilli Beef vegetarian? While it won’t be Crispy Chilli Beef, you can definitely adapt the recipe using tofu or tempeh instead of beef. Just press the tofu or tempeh to remove excess water, then coat it in cornstarch and fry it until crispy. The rest of the recipe remains the same. This variation is a delicious and nutritious option for vegetarians.

Is there a gluten-free version of this Crispy Chilli Beef? Yes! Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Also, make sure to check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Can I adjust the spice level of this Spicy beef stir fry? Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of spicy food, simply reduce the amount of chilli peppers or chilli sauce in the recipe. You can also remove the seeds from the chilli peppers to reduce the heat. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more chilli peppers or chilli sauce to taste.

What kind of rice is best to serve with this Chinese beef dish? I prefer to serve this Crispy Chilli Beef with steamed jasmine rice. The fragrant rice complements the flavors of the beef and sauce perfectly. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option.

Final Thoughts:

This Crispy Chilli Beef has become a staple in our house because it’s a delicious, nutritious, and easy meal that the whole family enjoys. It’s a great way to get a healthy dose of protein and veggies, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner.

My Crispy Chilli Beef Nutrition Hacks:

  1. Double the Veggies: Sneak in extra vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or broccoli.
  2. Use Lean Beef: Choose a lean cut of beef like flank steak to reduce the fat content.
  3. Control the Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce and avoid adding extra salt.
Here is Where to find Chinese crispy chili beef or crispy shredded beef in … on Facebook – check this out for more information on Crispy Chilli Beef!
Here are a few family-tested healthy Crispy Chilli Beef variations:

  • Spicy Pineapple Crispy Chilli Beef: Add chunks of pineapple to the stir-fry for a sweet and spicy twist.
  • Sesame Ginger Crispy Chilli Beef: Add extra ginger and sesame seeds to the sauce for a more pronounced flavor.
  • Peanut Butter Crispy Chilli Beef: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the sauce for a nutty and creamy flavor. This version is a hit with the kids!

My oldest prefers the Spicy Pineapple Crispy Chilli Beef, while my youngest loves the Peanut Butter version. I personally enjoy the classic Crispy Chilli Beef with extra veggies. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out this potato soup recipe.

Finished Crispy Chilli Beef dish garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

I hope you and your family enjoy this Crispy Chilli Beef as much as we do. Remember, it’s all about finding simple nutrition solutions that work for your busy life. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create a dish that your family will love. You can use the Crispy Chilli Beef recipe, from Crispy Chilli Beef – Nicky’s Kitchen Sanctuary to explore more.

Give it a try, and let me know what you think! I’m here to support you on your journey to simple nutrition success. You got this! 😊

\n   \n Print

Crispy Chilli Beef

This Crispy Chilli Beef is a delightful combination of tender beef strips coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, fried to crispy perfection. Serve it with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

  • Author: Juliette
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Fried
  • Cuisine: Chinese

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Flank Steak, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 inch Ginger, minced
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
  • 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Chilli Garlic Sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
  • Sesame Seeds, for garnish
  • Green Onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Toss the sliced beef in the mixture until well coated.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  3. Fry the beef in batches until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add garlic and ginger, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and chilli garlic sauce to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add the crispy beef back to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of honey to the sauce. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!