Crispy Orange Beef – A Bold and Zesty Chinese Takeout Classic
Crispy Orange Beef features golden-fried beef strips coated in a bright citrus sauce.The dish balances sweet, tangy, and savory flavors beautifully.Fresh orange zest adds aroma and depth.It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that rivals restaurant takeout.
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 450 g flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 egg white
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Orange Sauce
- Zest of 1 orange
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Stir-Frying
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Season the sliced beef with salt and pepper.
- Add egg white and cornstarch, mixing until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a deep pan and fry the beef in batches until crispy and golden. Remove and drain.
- In a bowl, whisk orange zest, orange juice, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch slurry.
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet, add garlic, ginger, and chili flakes; sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the orange sauce and cook until thick and glossy.
- Add fried beef and toss quickly to coat evenly.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Slice beef against the grain for tenderness.
- Cornstarch creates a light, crispy coating.
- Fresh orange juice gives the best flavour.
- Sauce thickens quickly, so stir constantly.
- Best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispiness.