The vibrant scent of citrus and sizzling beef fills my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly marries bright flavors with satisfying crunch, look no further than my Crispy Orange Beef. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, effortlessly turning weeknight dinners into gourmet experiences.
One evening, I found myself craving something exciting after a long day. With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, I discovered that I could transform ordinary beef into a crispy, zesty delight. Imagine the tender strips of beef coated in a light cornflour crust, paired with a sweet and tangy orange sauce, all topped off with colorful veggies that retain their crunch. It’s a dish that not only impresses but also brings a joyful burst of flavor to each bite.
Ready to dive into a world of delectable goodness? Let’s create a meal that will leave fast food behind and bring the goodness of homemade cuisine to your table!
Why is Crispy Orange Beef so Special?
Bold flavors unite as the sweet and tangy orange bursts through each bite, making every meal a feast. Easy preparation means you can whip it up on busy weeknights without breaking a sweat. Crunchy textures from the crisp beef and fresh vegetables keep every forkful exciting. Family-friendly and versatile, this dish pairs perfectly with fluffy boiled rice or your favorite noodles. Impressive presentation makes it a perfect centerpiece for get-togethers, ensuring your dinner table shines with homemade goodness!
Crispy Orange Beef Ingredients
Discover the tasty components behind this delightful dish!
For the Beef
• 500 g beef steak – use tender cuts like sirloin for the best texture.
• 2 tbsp cornflour – helps achieve that crispy coating everyone loves.
• 1 pinch salt – enhances the flavor of the beef.
• 1 pinch pepper – adds a dash of warmth and subtle spice.
For the Sauce
• zest of half an orange – intensifies the fresh citrus notes in the dish.
• juice of 2 large oranges (approx. 120ml or 1/2 cup) – this is the star of the show, giving that signature tang to the Crispy Orange Beef.
• 5 tbsp soy sauce – adds a savory depth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 3 tbsp caster sugar – the sweetness contrasts nicely with the tangy sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic – crushed for that irresistible aromatic punch.
• 1 tsp rice vinegar – brings a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
• 1 tsp ginger paste – a warm spice that complements the orange beautifully.
For the Vegetables
• 1 red pepper – sliced to provide a pop of color and crunch.
• 1 large onion – peeled and sliced to add sweetness and depth.
• 4 spring onions (scallions) – chopped on the diagonal for a fresh garnish.
For Serving
• boiled rice – fluffy rice perfectly soaks up the delicious sauce.
• 1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 3 tbsp cold water – a slurry used to thicken the sauce if desired.
How to Make Crispy Orange Beef
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Heat Oil: Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat. This will create the perfect environment for that golden, crispy beef!
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Coat Beef: Pat 500 grams of beef steak dry with kitchen roll. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornflour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the beef strips in this mixture until they’re completely coated.
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Fry Beef: Once the oil is shimmering hot, carefully add the beef. Fry it until crispy and golden, about 5-6 minutes, stirring 3 to 4 times for even cooking.
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Drain Beef: Using a slotted spoon, remove the beef from the pan and place it in a bowl lined with kitchen roll. This helps soak up any excess oil, keeping your beef perfectly crispy.
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Sauté Veggies: Lower the heat to medium and add the sliced red pepper and onion to the pan. Fry them for 2-3 minutes until they’re hot but still retain that delightful crunch.
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Mix Sauce: While the vegetables are cooking, grab a bowl and mix together the orange zest, juice, soy sauce, sugar, crushed garlic, rice vinegar, and ginger. This vibrant orange sauce is what makes your Crispy Orange Beef shine!
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Combine: Pour the orange sauce over the sautéed vegetables and turn up the heat. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer for 1 minute to meld the flavors beautifully.
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Reintroduce Beef: Add the crispy beef back into the pan, giving it a good stir to coat it with the sauce. Heat through for 1 minute. If the sauce appears too thin, whisk in the cornflour slurry to thicken it up.
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Serve and Garnish: Once bubbling and thickened, serve your scrumptious Crispy Orange Beef over fluffy boiled rice. Garnish with diagonal slices of spring onions for an added freshness!
Optional: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Orange Beef?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful accompaniments that enhance the vibrant flavors of this dish.
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Fluffy Boiled Rice: The perfect base, it absorbs the tangy sauce beautifully, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful medleys of broccoli, carrots, and snap peas add a crunchy, nutritious boost to your meal, enhancing the freshness of your dish.
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Sesame Noodles: These nutty, savory noodles provide a delightful contrast to the crispy beef, creating a textural feast that your family will love.
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Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, a simple cucumber salad with a drizzle of rice vinegar and sesame oil cleanses the palate and adds a crunchy element.
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Sweet-and-Sour Pineapple: Juicy pineapple chunks complement the bold flavors of the orange beef, bringing a tropical twist to the table.
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Chilled Green Tea: This soothing beverage complements the zesty notes of the beef while adding a refreshing touch to your meal experience.
Let your dinner shine with these delicious pairings, making your Crispy Orange Beef the star of a memorable meal!
Tips for the Best Crispy Orange Beef
- Beef Selection: Choose tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak for the best results. Tough cuts can make your Crispy Orange Beef chewy rather than tender.
- Heating Oil: Ensure the oil is properly heated by testing with a small piece of beef; it should sizzle on contact. This creates that coveted crispy texture!
- Coating Technique: Avoid clumping the cornflour by tossing the beef evenly. An even coat is crucial for that perfect crunch—don’t skip this step!
- Vegetable Timing: Fry your veggies just until they are hot but still crunchy. Overcooking can lead to mushy vegetables that lose their vibrant flavor and texture.
- Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too runny, the cornflour slurry is your friend! Stir it in gradually to reach your desired thickness without overcooking the beef.
- Fresh Garnish: Always finish with fresh garnishes like spring onions; they add a refreshing crunch and enhance the dish’s visual appeal.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Orange Beef
Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Orange Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while preventing the beef from drying out.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To maintain its crispy texture, consider freezing the beef and sauce separately.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to avoid drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the beef soggy.
Thawing: Always thaw frozen Crispy Orange Beef overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Crispy Orange Beef ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy weeknights! You can marinate the beef in the cornflour, salt, and pepper mix and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. The orange sauce components can also be combined and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days to enhance flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the beef until crispy, sauté the veggies, and then combine everything with your pre-made orange sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy rich, fresh flavors with less stress, making your homemade meal just as delicious as freshly cooked!
Crispy Orange Beef Variations
Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own with these fun twists!
- Dairy-Free: Simply replace any sauces or broths containing dairy with coconut aminos or vegetable broth for a rich, tasty alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of chili paste or fresh sliced chilies to the orange sauce for a fiery flavor that brings a new level of excitement.
- Veggie-Loaded: Toss in additional vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to boost nutrition and vibrant colors. They add a delightful crunch with every bite!
- Ginger Zing: Increase the ginger paste to 1.5 teaspoons for an extra punch of warmth and aroma that harmonizes beautifully with the orange.
- Sweet Orange Twist: Experiment with blood oranges instead of regular ones for a stunning color and a unique depth of flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
- Soy-Free: Use tamari or liquid aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor. Can you taste the difference? Let’s find out!
- Noodle Fusion: Swap the boiled rice for stir-fried noodles for a delightful, slurp-worthy meal that’s equally satisfying and comforting.
- Crispy Tofu: For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with crispy pan-fried tofu, ensuring each piece has that lovely crunch, perfectly absorbing the zesty sauce.
Remember, cooking is about creativity and joy—let your kitchen adventures begin!
Crispy Orange Beef Recipe FAQs
How can I choose the best beef for my Crispy Orange Beef?
Absolutely! For this recipe, opting for tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak is key. These cuts provide the best texture once cooked. Avoid tougher cuts as they can result in a chewy dish, which isn’t what you want when enjoying a delightful crispy meal!
How should I store leftover Crispy Orange Beef?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll keep all that yummy flavor intact. Just remember to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up, as this helps prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze my Crispy Orange Beef?
Of course! To freeze, I recommend storing the beef and the sauce separately to help maintain that delightful crispiness. Place your beef in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
No worries! If you find your sauce isn’t thickening, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornflour with 3 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Gradually stir this slurry into the sauce while it simmers, cooking for an additional minute to achieve that thick, glossy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Crispy Orange Beef?
Yes! Be mindful of ingredients like soy sauce, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, if you have allergies to oranges or soy, you can substitute with a citrus juice like lemon or lime and use a soy sauce alternative like coconut aminos for a safe and tasty meal!
Zesty Crispy Orange Beef for Delicious Dinner Wins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by heating 3 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large frying pan over high heat.
- Pat 500 grams of beef steak dry. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornflour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the beef strips until coated.
- Once the oil is shimmering, add the beef. Fry until crispy and golden, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the beef and place it in a bowl lined with kitchen roll.
- Lower the heat, add the sliced red pepper and onion, and fry for 2-3 minutes until they're hot but still crunchy.
- Mix together the orange zest, juice, soy sauce, sugar, crushed garlic, rice vinegar, and ginger in a bowl.
- Pour the orange sauce over the sautéed vegetables, bring to a boil, and simmer for 1 minute.
- Add the crispy beef back into the pan and stir to coat with the sauce. Heat through for 1 minute.
- Serve your Crispy Orange Beef over boiled rice and garnish with spring onions.