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Air Fryer Crispy Chilli Beef (Cantonese Style)

Crispy Chilli Beef is a beloved dish that has won over many fans with its delightful balance of flavours and textures. Traditionally deep-fried, this Cantonese favourite provides a satisfying crunch paired with a punchy, sweet and spicy sauce. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy this delectable dish with significantly less oil, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste. Here’s how to whip up an irresistible Air Fryer Crispy Chilli Beef that captures the essence of Cantonese cuisine right in your home.

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 300g beef strips (ideally flank or sirloin)
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• 1 tablespoon plain flour
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

For the Chilli Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2-3 dried red chillies (adjust to taste)
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
• Spring onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Marinate the Beef: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef strips with soy sauce, five-spice powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Allow it to marinate for about 30 minutes to an hour. This step infuses the meat with flavour.

2. Coat the Beef: In another bowl, combine the cornflour and plain flour. Once the beef has marinated, dip each strip in the flour mixture, followed by the beaten egg. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. This creates that essential crispy texture when air-fried.

Step 2: Air Fry the Beef

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

2. Air Fry: Place the coated beef strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded (you may need to work in batches). Lightly spray the beef with oil for added crispiness. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the beef is golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Chilli Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the dried red chillies, garlic, and ginger, stirring frequently until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

2. Add Vegetables: Toss in the sliced onion and bell pepper, stir-frying until they begin to soften, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar to the pan. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the beef is done frying, add it to the pan with the sauce and vegetables. Toss everything together until the beef is well coated in the sauce.

Garnish with chopped spring onions and sesame seeds for an added touch of colour and crunch.

Enjoying Your Dish

Serve your Air Fryer Crispy Chilli Beef hot, alongside steamed rice or noodles. It’s a dish perfect for sharing and is bound to impress your family and friends with its flavours and appealing presentation.

Air frying not only makes preparation easier but also reduces the calories typically involved in deep frying, making this a delicious treat you can enjoy more often. So, if you’re looking for a quick yet flavourful addition to your weeknight dinner repertoire, give this Cantonese classic a modern twist with your air fryer. Enjoy!

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