Crispy Chilli Beef Rice Crispy Juicy and Delicious

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a dish that combines crispiness, bold flavors, and juicy tender beef—all in one bowl. Crispy Chilli Beef Rice is the ultimate comfort meal, perfect for a cozy evening when you want something hearty and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic Asian-style stir-fries, where the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and texture transforms simple ingredients into a memorable dish. The crispy beef coating adds an irresistible crunch, while the chili sauce delivers just the right amount of spice. Served over fluffy, fragrant rice, it’s a combination that delights every palate and makes everyone come back for seconds.

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Ingredients

For the Beef

• 500g beef strips or thinly sliced beef (sirloin or rump works best)

• 1/2 cup cornflour or cornstarch

• 1/4 cup plain flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1 egg, beaten

• 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Chilli Sauce

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce

• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1–2 fresh red chillies, sliced (adjust to taste)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp ginger, minced

• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry for thickening)

For the Rice

• 2 cups jasmine or basmati rice

• 4 cups water

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Garnish (Optional)

• Sliced spring onions

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Fresh coriander

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Directions

1. Prepare the Rice

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. In a medium saucepan, add rice, water, salt, and vegetable oil.

3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover.

4. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.

5. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

2. Prepare the Beef

1. In a mixing bowl, combine cornflour, plain flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

2. Dip each beef strip into the beaten egg, then coat with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess.

3. Heat oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.

4. Fry the beef in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Make the Chilli Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, tomato ketchup, and sesame oil. Set aside.

2. In the same pan used for frying the beef, add a little oil if needed. Sauté garlic, ginger, and sliced chillies for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Pour in the sauce mixture and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.

4. Combine Beef and Sauce

1. Add the crispy beef strips to the pan with the sauce.

2. Toss quickly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful sauce without losing its crispiness.

3. Serve immediately over the cooked rice.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle sliced spring onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh coriander over the top.

2. Serve while hot and enjoy the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and spicy flavors.

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Tips for Perfect Crispy Chilli Beef Rice

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Sirloin, rump, or flank steak work best for stir-fry. They cook quickly and remain tender.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the beef in batches to maintain crispiness. Overcrowding will steam the meat instead of frying it.

• Adjust the Spice: Control the heat by adjusting the number of fresh chillies or using milder chili sauces.

• Rice Matters: Jasmine or basmati rice absorbs flavors well and gives a fragrant base for the beef.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and fry the beef just before serving to save time.

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Variations to Try

• Vegetable Chilli Beef Rice: Add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and color.

• Garlic Chilli Beef Rice: Add extra garlic and a splash of soy sauce for a punchier flavor.

• Sweet Chilli Honey Beef Rice: Stir in a teaspoon of honey for a slightly sweet and sticky sauce.

• Spicy Szechuan Beef Rice: Use Szechuan peppercorns and chili paste for an authentic kick.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason Crispy Chilli Beef Rice has become a favorite in homes and restaurants alike. The dish hits every note—crispy, tender, spicy, and sweet—all in one bite. It’s also incredibly versatile: perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, a cozy meal for two, or a show-stopping dish when entertaining friends.

The technique of coating and frying the beef ensures that every bite retains a crunch, while the sauce clings beautifully to the meat without making it soggy. The combination of aromatic garlic, fresh chillies, and a touch of sweetness creates a flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.

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Healthier Options

While this recipe is indulgent, you can make a few simple swaps to lighten it up without sacrificing flavor:

• Use lean beef cuts and pat dry before frying to reduce oil absorption.

• Bake the beef in the oven at 200°C (390°F) for 15–20 minutes instead of deep frying.

• Swap white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for added fiber.

• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control sodium intake.

Even with these adjustments, you’ll still enjoy the crispy texture and bold flavors that make this dish irresistible.

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Pairing Ideas

Crispy Chilli Beef Rice pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Steamed or stir-fried vegetables: Broccoli, bok choy, or green beans add freshness.

• Simple cucumber salad: Light and refreshing, it balances the spicy richness of the beef.

• Spring rolls or dumplings: For a full Asian-inspired meal.

• Soup starters: Hot and sour soup or miso soup complement the dish beautifully.

These pairings can turn a simple dinner into a full culinary experience that’s perfect for family meals or small gatherings.

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Storing and Reheating

• Storing: Keep leftover beef and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the beef in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness. Warm the rice separately in the microwave or on the stovetop.

• Freezing: While the beef may lose some crunch when frozen, it still tastes delicious. Freeze in portions for up to a month and reheat gently.

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Fun Facts About Chilli Beef

• Chilli beef dishes are popular across many Asian cuisines, including Chinese, Thai, and Malaysian cooking.

• The combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors is designed to stimulate the palate and enhance the enjoyment of the meal.

• Crispiness in fried foods not only improves texture but also locks in flavor, making each bite more satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! If you prefer a meat-free version of Crispy Chilli Beef Rice, you can easily replace the beef with tofu or tempeh. Firm tofu works best because it holds its shape during frying and develops a golden, crispy exterior. Simply press the tofu to remove excess moisture, cut it into strips or cubes, and coat it in the same flour and egg mixture as you would for the beef. Then fry until golden brown and toss with the chilli sauce. Tempeh is another great option, offering a slightly nuttier flavor and firmer texture. You can even experiment with plant-based beef alternatives if you want a closer texture to traditional beef. This way, vegetarians or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption can still enjoy the full flavor and satisfying crunch of this dish.

2. How can I make the beef extra crispy?
Achieving that perfect crispy texture requires a few simple steps. First, pat the beef dry with paper towels before coating it in the flour mixture. Any moisture on the surface will prevent the coating from crisping properly. Next, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—around medium-high heat works best. Fry the beef in small batches rather than all at once; overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and cause the beef to steam instead of fry. Finally, avoid stirring the beef too much while frying. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side so it develops a crunchy, golden crust. Following these tips ensures that your beef stays crispy while remaining juicy on the inside.

3. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, you can definitely use leftover or pre-cooked rice for this recipe. In fact, slightly dried rice is ideal because it won’t become mushy when paired with the sauce. If your rice is freshly cooked, spread it out on a tray to cool and dry for a few minutes before serving. This helps the grains stay separate and fluffy. Pre-cooked rice also makes this dish perfect for quick weeknight dinners, as it reduces overall cooking time without sacrificing texture or flavor.

4. Can I adjust the spiciness?
Definitely! The level of heat in Crispy Chilli Beef Rice can be customized to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the number of fresh chillies or omit them entirely. Using just sweet chilli sauce can give the dish a slightly sweet and tangy flavor without too much heat. For those who love spice, you can increase the fresh chillies or even add a pinch of chilli flakes for an extra kick. This flexibility makes the recipe enjoyable for the whole family, whether you like it mild, medium, or fiery.

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Final Thoughts

Crispy Chilli Beef Rice is a dish that embodies comfort, flavor, and satisfaction. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for special occasions. The combination of crispy beef, spicy-sweet sauce, and fluffy rice is a flavor explosion that appeals to adults and kids alike.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. The best part? You can customize it with vegetables, spice levels, or even alternative proteins to suit your taste.

Take a cozy evening, gather your ingredients, and bring the vibrant flavors of Crispy Chilli Beef Rice to your kitchen. Once you taste that perfect crunch combined with juicy, savory beef and a hint of spice, you’ll understand why this dish has won hearts across countless homes.

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