Crispy chilli beef is one of the most loved dishes in Chinese takeaways — tender strips of beef, fried to perfection, tossed in a spicy, sticky, and sweet chilli sauce. The crunch, the flavor, and the satisfying heat make this dish absolutely irresistible.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you’re a fan of the classic pan-fried version or want a lighter option like crispy chilli beef air fryer style, this guide will walk you through everything — ingredients, steps, air fryer tips, and even a slimming-friendly version.
What Is Crispy Chilli Beef?
Crispy chilli beef recipe comes from Chinese cuisine, usually made with thin strips of beef (often sirloin or flank steak), coated in cornstarch, fried until crunchy, and coated in a glossy chilli sauce.
It’s often referred to as crispy shredded chilli beef or shredded crispy chilli beef in takeaway menus. The unique combination of sweet, tangy, spicy, and crispy makes it a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic chinese crispy chilli beef at home, you’ll need:
For the beef:
- 400g beef steak (flank or sirloin), thinly sliced into strips
- 3 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
- Oil for air frying or shallow frying
For the crispy chilli beef sauce:
- 2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp red chilli flakes
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
Optional garnishes: sliced spring onions, red chillies, sesame seeds.
How to Make Crispy Chilli Beef (Traditional & Air Fryer Methods)
Pan-Fried Method
- Marinate the beef
Toss the beef with soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes. - Coat with cornflour
Dust the marinated beef in cornflour evenly — this creates that iconic crispy shredd ed chilli beef texture. - Shallow fry
Heat oil in a pan or wok. Fry the beef in small batches until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels. - Prepare the sauce
In another pan, heat a little oil and sauté garlic and ginger. Add the rest of the sauce ingredients and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thick. - Combine
Toss the crispy beef into the sauce, stir quickly, and serve hot.
Air Fryer Crispy Chilli Beef (Healthier Version)
Want a lower-fat version? Here’s how to make air fryer crispy chilli beef without deep frying:
- Marinate & coat beef (same as above)
- Preheat air fryer to 200°C (390°F)
- Spray beef with oil and air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through until golden and crispy
- Toss in the prepared sauce and garnish
This air fry crispy chilli beef method retains the crunch but cuts down oil, making it ideal for those following diets like Slimming World crispy chilli beef or Pinch of Nom crispy chilli beef versions.
Pro Tips for Perfect Crispy Chilli Beef
- Cut beef evenly: Thin, uniform strips cook faster and crisp up better
- Cornflour is key: Don’t substitute with plain flour
- Cook in batches: Avoid overcrowding, especially in air fryer
- Double-fry for extra crunch (optional in pan method)
- Toss quickly in sauce to retain crispiness
Whether you prefer crispy chilli beef Chinese takeaway style or want a leaner twist, mastering the coating and sauce is the key.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy chilli beef with:
- Egg fried rice or jasmine rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Noodles or lo mein
- Steamed broccoli or pak choi
- A drizzle of extra sauce on top
Want to keep it low-carb? Serve with lettuce wraps or cauliflower rice — a great twist for slimming world crispy chilli beef lovers.
Customize the Sauce
Love heat? Add more chilli flakes or fresh chillies.
Prefer sweeter? Add a dash of honey.
Want it tangier? Increase vinegar or add a squeeze of lime.
The crispy chilli beef sauce is super versatile — make it your own!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after the deep-fried crunch or a healthier air-fried version, crispy chilli beef never disappoints. With its sticky-sweet-spicy sauce and golden shredded beef, it’s a dish that turns a simple dinner into a flavor-packed feast.
Try the classic crispy chilli beef recipe, or give the air fryer crispy chilli beef version a go — either way, you’re in for a restaurant-style meal made right in your kitchen.
FAQs
How to make crispy chilli beef at home?
Slice beef thin, coat in cornflour, fry or air fry until crispy, then toss in a sweet and spicy sauce made with soy, garlic, chilli flakes, and sugar.
Can I make crispy chilli beef in air fryer?
Absolutely! Crispy chilli beef air fryer style is healthier and still crunchy. Just coat beef, spray with oil, and air fry at 200°C for 10–12 minutes.
What’s the best beef cut for crispy shredded chilli beef?
Use flank steak, rump, or sirloin. Make sure to cut against the grain for tenderness.
Is crispy chilli beef recipe suitable for Slimming World?
Yes, if you air fry the beef, reduce sugar, and use low-sodium sauces, this becomes a great slimming world crispy chilli beef option.
What’s the difference between crispy chilli beef and crispy chilly beef?
They’re the same dish — crispy chilly beef is just an alternate spelling often seen online or in Indian-Chinese fusion menus.
