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Deliciously Crispy: Air Fryer Chilli Beef

In recent years, the air fryer has emerged as a beloved kitchen gadget, transforming the way we prepare our meals. Among its many culinary adaptations, one dish that stands out is the crispy chilli beef. This deliciously moreish recipe, which combines tender strips of beef with a spicy, sweet sauce, is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an impressive dish to serve at gatherings.

What is Chilli Beef?

Chilli beef is a classic takeaway dish that hails from Chinese cuisine. It typically features thinly sliced beef, marinated and tossed in a tangy sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and, most importantly, chilli peppers. Traditionally, this dish is deep-fried to achieve that signature crispiness, but the air fryer offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavour or texture.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer to prepare chilli beef has several benefits:

1. Reduced Fat Content: The air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, cutting down the unhealthy fats that often accompany deep-fried foods.
2. Speed and Convenience: The air fryer heats up quickly and provides a speedy cooking time, perfect for busy weeknights.
3. Crispiness: With the right technique, air fryers can still achieve that delightful crispiness we crave in chilli beef, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of air fryer crispy chilli beef, you will need:

• 300g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons cornflour (cornstarch)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons chilli flakes (adjust to taste)
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish
• Lemon or lime wedges (optional, for serving)

Method

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

In a large bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a sprinkle of chilli flakes. Let it marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This infusion will ensure the beef is packed with flavour.

Step 2: Coat the Beef

After marinating, add cornflour to the bowl and mix until the beef strips are thoroughly coated. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy exterior when air frying.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Air Fry the Beef

Lightly toss the marinated beef strips in vegetable oil before placing them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The beef should emerge golden and crisp.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

Once the beef is cooked, add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the basket and air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant.

Step 6: Toss in Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey or brown sugar with any leftover marinade and additional soy sauce, and heat until it bubbles. Pour this sauce over the cooked beef and vegetables in the air fryer and give everything a gentle toss.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the crispy chilli beef to a serving platter, and garnish with freshly chopped coriander. Serve with lime or lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick.

Conclusion

Air fryer crispy chilli beef is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also delivers on taste and texture, making it a fantastic option for dinner or entertaining. With fewer calories than its deep-fried counterpart, you can indulge without the guilt, enjoying a dish that bursts with flavour and crunch.

Whether you pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad, this air fryer version of a classic dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So give it a go and savour the mouthwatering delight of crispy chilli beef tonight!

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