Crispy shredded chilli beef is a popular Chinese dish that combines the savory taste of beef with the spicy kick from chillies. It’s perfect for those who love bold flavors and crunchy textures. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own delicious version at home.
#### Ingredients (SEO-friendly)
- 250g lean beef (sirloin or flank steak), thinly sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, deseeded and finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground Sichuan peppercorns (or substitute with chili flakes)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with a little water
#### Equipment Needed (SEO-friendly)
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife for slicing beef thinly
- Wok or large non-stick pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
#### Preparation Steps
1. **Prep the Beef:**
- Begin by cutting the beef into thin strips, about 2mm thick. This step is crucial for achieving the desired crispiness.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water and set aside.
2. **Marinate the Beef:**
- Place the sliced beef in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with soy sauce, oyster sauce, ground Sichuan peppercorns (or chili flakes), salt, and pepper.
- Toss to ensure even coating. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
3. **Prepare the Sauce:**
- In another small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped green onions, and a little bit of oil.
4. **Cooking the Beef (SEO-friendly):**
- Heat up a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
- Remove the beef from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, and add it to the hot wok. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked through.
- Push the beef to one side of the pan, add the remaining oil, and sauté the chopped bell pepper and garlic mixture for another minute.
5. **Combine Ingredients:**
- Mix the marinated beef with the vegetables in the wok.
- Pour the cornstarch slurry into the wok while stirring continuously to thicken the sauce slightly.
6. **Final Touches (SEO-friendly):**
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is well-cooked and the sauce has thickened nicely.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
7. **Serve:**
- Transfer the crispy shredded chilli beef to a serving dish.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
#### Tips and Variations (SEO-friendly)
- For added texture, you can mix some peanuts or roasted cashews into the dish before serving.
- Use fresh chives instead of green onions for a slightly different flavor profile.
- To make it more authentic, substitute Sichuan peppercorns with star anise.
Enjoy your homemade crispy shredded chilli beef! This dish not only looks impressive but also tastes heavenly. Perfect as a side or main course, especially during the cooler seasons when you want something hearty and comforting.