Crispy Ginger Beef: A Canadian Favourite

Name: Crispy Ginger Beef: A Canadian Favourite
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 450 g sirloin steak (thinly sliced); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 cup water (cold); 1/2 cup sugar; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp red pepper flakes; 1 litre vegetable oil (for frying)

65 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Discover how to make crispy ginger beef with a sweet and tangy sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Prep

20 min

Cook

15 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Crispy ginger beef is a beloved Canadian Chinese dish known for its crunchy texture and bold flavours. Originating from Calgary, this dish combines the spicy kick of ginger with a sweet and tangy sauce, creating an irresistible balance. This version of crispy ginger beef is perfect for those who want to recreate a classic restaurant dish in the comfort of their home. With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, it's an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick weeknight dinner. Whether you have a craving for takeout or want to impress guests with your culinary skills, this recipe will guide you to ginger beef perfection, ensuring crispy, flavourful bites every time.

Instructions

Prepare the beef

In a bowl, combine sliced beef, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Marinating the beef enhances flavour and tenderness.

Make the batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and cold water until smooth.

Pro tip: Cold water helps create a lighter batter.

Heat the oil

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).

Pro tip: Use a thermometer to ensure oil reaches correct temperature.

Fry the beef

Dip marinated beef in batter, then fry in hot oil for 3-4 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Pro tip: Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower oil temperature.

Prepare the sauce

In a saucepan, combine sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Pro tip: Adjust sugar and vinegar to taste for a balance of sweet and tangy.

Combine and serve

Toss fried beef in the sauce until well coated. Serve immediately garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Pro tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the crispiest texture.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your oil is hot enough to achieve the perfect crispiness.
Slice the beef thinly for quicker cooking and better texture.
Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is crispy ginger beef?

Crispy ginger beef is a Canadian Chinese dish featuring thinly sliced beef fried until crispy and coated in a sweet, tangy ginger sauce.

How do you make crispy ginger beef easy?

Use readily available ingredients, follow clear steps for marinating, battering, and frying, and ensure your oil is hot enough for crispiness.

How many calories in crispy ginger beef?

A single serving of crispy ginger beef contains approximately 450 calories.

What cut of beef is best for crispy ginger beef?

Sirloin steak is ideal due to its tenderness and flavour, but you can also use flank or round steak.

Can crispy ginger beef be made ahead?

Yes, store the sauce and fried beef separately. Reheat the beef in a hot oven before tossing with the sauce to keep it crispy.

What can I serve with crispy ginger beef?

Pair crispy ginger beef with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complement the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your crispy ginger beef hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavour. Pair it with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complete the meal. If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, store the sauce and fried beef separately in airtight containers for up to three days. Reheat the beef in a hot oven to maintain crispiness before tossing with the sauce.