Crispy Beef with Honey and Pepper

The first time I had this beef dish was when my sister-in-law invited my family to a dinner at a local Chinese restaurant. The dinner consisted of a multi-course meal and this crispy beef with honey and pepper was one of the dishes served. Everyone loved it because it looked appetizing and was also crispy and delectably sweet. Ever since then, I would always order this beef dish, along with my favorite chow mein when I order from this restaurant. My family loves this dish so much; I decided to recreate it at home. I had the chance last week when I was off from work. The recipe consists of a few ingredients and the steps are easy to follow. This crispy beef is incredibly delicious and very satisfying. Love it!

Cooking Tips for Perfectly Crispy Beef

Achieving that perfect crispy texture is key to this dish. Start by slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This helps break down the muscle fibers, making the beef more tender. Marinating the beef in a mixture of soy sauce and cornstarch for about 30 minutes can enhance both flavor and texture. The cornstarch acts like a shield, keeping the moisture in while also creating a crispy coating during frying. When frying, make sure your oil is hot enough, around 350°F. If the oil is not hot enough, the beef will absorb too much oil and become soggy. Fry in small batches to ensure each piece has enough space to crisp up. Lastly, drain the fried beef on paper towels to remove excess oil, which helps maintain that delightful crunch.

Ingredient Notes for Best Results

Using high-quality ingredients can significantly impact the flavor of your crispy beef. Choose beef cuts like flank steak or sirloin for their tenderness and flavor. Fresh garlic and ginger can elevate the dish, adding depth to the sweet and spicy profile. Opt for a good quality honey, as the taste can vary greatly between brands. For the pepper, you can use black pepper for a milder heat or go for Sichuan peppercorns if you prefer a more intense kick. Make sure to have enough cornstarch on hand. It not only helps with the crispy texture but also thickens the sauce beautifully. If you can, get some fresh green onions to garnish the dish. They add a nice crunch and a pop of color that makes the dish even more appealing.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crispy beef with honey and pepper is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. Serving it over steamed jasmine rice is a classic choice, as the rice soaks up the delicious sauce, balancing the dish’s sweetness. If you want something with more texture, fried rice or even a simple vegetable stir-fry can complement the beef nicely. For a refreshing contrast, consider a light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. This adds a nice crunch and cuts through the richness of the beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving the crispy beef in lettuce wraps. The coolness of the lettuce provides a delightful contrast and makes for a fun, interactive meal. Don’t forget to have some extra honey and crushed red pepper on the side for those who enjoy a little extra sweetness or heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Sure, if you can’t find sirloin, flank steak or ribeye can work too. Just make sure to slice it thinly for that perfect crispy texture.

What can I substitute for honey?

If you’re not a honey fan, agave syrup or maple syrup can be good alternatives. They will give you a similar sweetness, but the flavor will be slightly different.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to keep the beef crispy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and the sauce ahead of time, but for the best texture, fry it just before serving. This way, you’ll keep that delicious crunch.

What should I serve with crispy beef?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or chow mein. A side of stir-fried veggies can also add some freshness to your meal.

Crispy Beef with Honey and Pepper

Liza A

Crispy beef coated in honey and pepper brings a sweet and spicy kick to your plate. The tender sirloin and golden crunch make every bite irresistible.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 small red bell pepper sliced into thin strips
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Instructions

 

• Slice sirloin steak into thin, narrow strips. In a medium bowl, combine salt, pepper and cornstarch. Add beef strips and toss to combine.
• Heat oil in a wok or frying pan over medium high heat. Fry coated beef strips, in batches until crispy and golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
• Pour off all but 1 tablespoon oil from pan. Lower heat to medium-low; add garlic and cook for a few seconds. Add bell pepper and stir-fry for another minute.
• Add honey and soy sauce and stir to mix. Add the browned beef strips and stir to coat.
• Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 40gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25g

Keyword beef stir fry, crispy beef, honey garlic, quick dinner, savory

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