The allure of Asian cuisine lies in its vibrant and bold flavors, with spicy dishes holding a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Whether you're craving the zest of Schezuan peppercorns or the deep earthiness of fermented black beans, there's something undeniably magical about the spicy-savory balance. Today, we're exploring one such dish that perfectly encapsulates this fusion – the Spicy Chilli Beef. Rich, spicy, and packed with flavor, this recipe promises to bring a burst of excitement to your dining table.
Why Choose Spicy Chilli Beef?
There are many reasons to add Spicy Chilli Beef to your culinary repertoire:
- It’s a crowd pleaser with its familiar yet exciting taste profile.
- The dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
- It’s versatile – serve it as a main dish, appetizer, or wrap it in pancakes for a casual gathering.
- This recipe is customizable to suit different spice levels, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Ingredients for Spicy Chilli Beef
To bring this dish to life, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef steak (preferably sirloin or flank) | 500g |
| Light soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Dark soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves, finely chopped | 4 |
| Ginger, finely chopped | 1 inch piece |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 |
| Fresh chilies, chopped (adjust for heat) | 3-4 |
| Spring onions, sliced | 3 |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Chili bean paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Water or chicken stock | 1⁄2 cup |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation
Before you start cooking:
- Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. This ensures the meat remains tender.
- Combine the beef with light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix well to coat the beef. Set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prepare all other ingredients, slicing and chopping as necessary.
Cooking
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or frying pan over high heat.
- Add the marinated beef slices and stir-fry until they are just cooked and have a nice sear. Be careful not to overcook as the beef will become tough. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining oil, then stir-fry the garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Add the sliced bell pepper and chilies. Stir-fry for a minute or two until the peppers soften slightly.
- Return the beef to the wok, then add the chili bean paste, sugar, and rice vinegar. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the water or chicken stock, and let the sauce come to a simmer. The sauce should thicken slightly.
- Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and mix in the spring onions.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra spring onion slices or sesame seeds if desired.
⚠️ Note: To adjust the heat level, increase or decrease the number of fresh chilies, or adjust the amount of chili bean paste.
Wrapping up, this Spicy Chilli Beef recipe stands as a testament to the delicious synergy of spice and savory flavors, all wrapped in the comforting warmth of traditional cooking. It's a dish that not only satisfies but also excites the palate with its vibrant flavors. Whether you're hosting a dinner or simply looking to add a bit of excitement to your weekly menu, this dish is sure to impress. The key lies in the balance of flavors – the heat from the chilies, the umami from the beef, and the subtle sweetness that ties it all together. When you serve this at your table, you're not just serving food; you're offering an experience, a journey through taste that connects with the essence of Asian culinary traditions. Now, go ahead, fire up your wok, and let the magic of this dish unfold in your kitchen!
Can I substitute chicken for beef in this recipe?
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Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster.
How do I store leftovers?
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
What can I serve with Spicy Chilli Beef?
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This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or can be served alongside stir-fried vegetables or noodles.
