Name: Crispy Honey Chili Beef Strips
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ginger, grated; Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

These Crispy Honey Chili Beef Strips are a flavorful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory elements. The beef is coated in a light batter and fried until perfectly crispy, then tossed in a sticky honey chili sauce that makes every bite unforgettable. It’s a satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare and packs a punch of flavor.

Crispy Honey Chili Beef Strips

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe combines bold flavors with an irresistible crunch. The honey provides a delicate sweetness, balanced by the kick of chili sauce and the umami of soy sauce. It’s also incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a casual gathering.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb (450g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup vegetable oil, for frying
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, grated
Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

I start by mixing cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Then, I coat the thinly sliced beef strips in the dry mixture. In a large skillet or wok, I heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I fry the beef strips in batches for about 3-4 minutes each, until golden brown and crispy. I remove the beef and let it drain on paper towels.

Next, I combine honey, soy sauce, chili sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a saucepan. I heat it over medium heat, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, which takes about 3-5 minutes. I then toss the crispy beef strips in the sauce until evenly coated.

I like to serve it immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap out the beef for chicken or tofu for a different protein option. For more heat, I add extra chili sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. To give it a citrusy twist, a splash of lime juice works wonderfully. If I want a thicker sauce, I mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water before simmering.

storage/reheating

To store leftovers, I place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. I avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best for this recipe?

I prefer sirloin because it’s tender and easy to slice thinly, but flank or skirt steak also works well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I don’t recommend making it entirely ahead, but I prep the sauce and coat the beef in advance to save time.

Is there a substitute for honey?

Yes, I use maple syrup or agave syrup as alternatives if I run out of honey.

Can I bake the beef instead of frying?

While it won’t be as crispy, I bake it at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What side dishes go well with this?

I like to pair it with steamed jasmine rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

These Crispy Honey Chili Beef Strips bring together bold flavors and a crunchy texture in a dish that’s easy and satisfying. I find it perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests. With versatile ingredients and simple steps, it’s a go-to recipe I love making again and again.