Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli

Name: Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 1 cup cornstarch; 1 egg; 1/2 cup sweet chilli sauce; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Elevate your dinner nights with this delicious Crispy Chilli Beef recipe. Tender strips of beef are lightly battered and fried to achieve a perfectly crispy texture, then tossed in a flavorful sweet chilli sauce that strikes the ideal balance between spicy and sweet. This dish is quick to make and guaranteed to impress your family or guests with its vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2025-11-27T06:24:29.390Z

This dish originated from the vibrant street food culture where spicy and sweet flavors come together to create a delightful experience. Perfect for any occasion, it is sure to satisfy anyone's craving for something crispy and flavorful.

Discover the Perfect Balance of Flavors

Crispy Chilli Beef with Sweet Chilli is a delightful dish that beautifully showcases the harmony between heat and sweetness. The tender beef strips are perfectly battered, allowing them to achieve an irresistible crunch. The sweet chilli sauce adds a burst of flavor that enhances the dish without overpowering the palate. With each bite, you'll experience a delightful mix of textures and tastes that come together in an extraordinary culinary experience.

Using high-quality sirloin ensures that you get the best flavor and tenderness. The quick frying method seals in the meat's natural juices, resulting in succulent bites that contrast magnificently with the crispy exterior. This dish is a perfect choice when you want to impress family and friends with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy their company rather than being stuck in the kitchen.

A Quick and Simple Recipe

One of the most appealing aspects of this Crispy Chilli Beef recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an impressive meal in no time. The preparation involves lightly battering the beef, frying it until crispy, and combining it with a flavorful sauce. Everything can be completed in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Moreover, this dish can be easily customized to suit your taste. Feel free to adjust the amount of sweet chilli sauce and soy sauce based on your preference for spice or sweetness. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and color, making it a complete meal that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving Crispy Chilli Beef, the possibilities are endless. This dish pairs wonderfully with a steaming bowl of jasmine rice or noodles, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Consider garnishing with sesame seeds or green onions for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color. A side of stir-fried vegetables can elevate the meal further, adding a fresh, crisp contrast to the dish's richness.

For a complete dining experience, consider complementing this dish with light appetizers or sides. A refreshing cucumber salad or spring rolls can enhance the meal while creating a balanced dining experience. And don’t forget to offer a selection of drinks, such as a chilled white wine or iced tea, to make the evening even more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

Beef

500g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1 cup cornstarch
1 egg

Sweet Chilli Sauce

1/2 cup sweet chilli sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar

Make sure everything is at hand for a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Follow the steps carefully to achieve the perfect dish.

Prepare the Beef

In a bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and egg. Dip the sliced beef into the mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.

Fry the Beef

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make the Sauce

In a separate pan, combine the sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Heat until simmering.

Combine and Serve

Add the fried beef to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Enjoy your Crispy Chilli Beef hot!

Tips for Perfecting Your Crispy Chilli Beef

To achieve optimal crispiness, ensure that the oil is sufficiently hot before adding the beef. A temperature around 350°F (175°C) is ideal for frying. You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of batter; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Avoid overcrowding the pan during frying to ensure that each piece cooks evenly and maintains its crunch.

Let the fried beef rest on paper towels after frying to absorb excess oil. This helps retain that delightful crispy texture while ensuring the dish doesn’t become greasy. For an extra kick, consider tossing the beef in some chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies before adding the sauce for those who prefer an extra fiery flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

In case you don't have sweet chilli sauce on hand, you can create a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of honey and sriracha sauce. This mix can mimic the sweet and spicy profile that sweet chilli sauce offers. Additionally, consider using other cuts of beef, like flank or ribeye, depending on your preference and what’s available at your local market.

If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, opt for tamari instead of soy sauce, ensuring your meal accommodates different dietary needs without compromising flavor. Furthermore, vegetarian alternatives such as tofu or tempeh can replace beef, allowing more people to enjoy this lip-smacking dish.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers of your Crispy Chilli Beef, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to consume them within 2-3 days to ensure freshness and quality. When reheating, consider using an oven or air fryer to retain the crispiness, as microwaving can lead to a soggy texture.

To reheat, place the beef in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy once again. This method helps maintain the delightful crunch that makes this dish so enjoyable, making sure you can savor every last bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, chicken works great with this recipe as well.

→ How can I make it spicier?

Add more sweet chilli sauce or include some chili flakes to your preference.