Today, let’s embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Chinese-American cuisine, where the delight of Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce comes to life. This dish, with its crispy beef and tangy sauce, has always been a personal favorite, and I can’t wait to share its magic with you.
A Brief History: Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is a classic dish in Chinese-American cuisine, known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. It’s traditionally made by deep-frying thinly sliced beef until crispy, then tossing it in a vibrant orange sauce. The result is a dish that’s crunchy, flavorful, and truly unforgettable.
Chinese Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce
Equipment
- 1 large pan or wok
- 1 wire rack
- 1 baking pan
- 1 vegetable peeler
- paper towels
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 6 tablespoons cornstarch
- 11/2 pounds sirloin steak cut into 1/4-inch thick strips
- 1 large navel orange
- 3 tablespoons molasses
- 2 tablespoons red wine
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 11/2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil
- 1 jalapeño seeds and ribs removed, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 1- inch piece ginger grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 scallions chopped (optional)
- Peanut oil for frying
Instructions
- Toss beef in 1 tablespoon soy sauce. Sprinkle cornstarch evenly onto beef and mix well. Spread beef on a wire rack placed on a baking pan then put in freezer for 45 minutes to remove surface moisture from beef. This process ensures that beef will get crispy later.
- Using a vegetable peeler, get about 10 zest trips from the orange, making sure that none of the white pith is included. Set aside.
- Squeeze orange to get about 1⁄4 cup juice. In a bowl, mix orange juice, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, molasses, red wine, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk to combine. Set aside.
- Prepare a sheet pan lined with paper towels and heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F. Fry beef in 3 to 4 batches, for about 3 minute each batch or until golden brown and crispy, making sure to stir gently so the beef doesn’t stick together. Place cooked beef on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Heat grapeseed oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add orange strips and jalapeño and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes, and stir for no longer than 30 seconds.
- Add soy sauce mixture to pan, then add cooked beef. Stir to coat beef with sauce. Garnish with the chopped scallions if desired. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is a culinary journey that requires attention to detail, a love for flavor, and a willingness to experiment. Here are some tips that I’ve gathered over the years that might help you on your journey.
- Choose Your Cut: The cut of beef you choose can greatly affect the outcome of your dish. Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work well in this dish as they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce well. However, if you prefer a more tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, you could opt for beef brisket or short ribs. Just remember, these cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender.
- Marinate Your Beef: Marinating your beef before cooking can help tenderize it and enhance its flavor. A simple marinade of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch can do wonders. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight.
- Use Fresh Oranges: The star of this dish is the orange sauce, which gets its unique flavor from fresh oranges. Using fresh oranges instead of bottled juice can make a significant difference in the flavor of your sauce. The zest of the orange can also be used to add an extra layer of citrusy flavor.
- Balance Your Flavors: Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is known for its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Make sure to balance these flavors to suit your taste. If you find the orange sauce too sweet, balance it out with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies.
- Fry Your Beef Twice: To ensure your beef stays crispy, fry it twice. The first fry should be at a lower temperature to cook the beef through, and the second fry should be at a higher temperature to crisp up the exterior. This will give your beef a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
- Pair with Rice: The sweet and tangy flavors of Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce pair perfectly with steamed rice. The rice not only complements the flavors of the dish but also helps to soak up the delicious sauce.
Remember, cooking is an art, not a science. These tips are just guidelines – feel free to tweak them to suit your taste. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. After all, the best dishes are made with love!
How to Serve Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce
Serving Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is about more than just plating a dish; it’s about creating a culinary experience that delights all your senses. Here’s how you can turn a simple stir-fry into a feast for the eyes, nose, and palate.
- Choose the Right Plate: The first step in serving Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is choosing the right plate. A large, flat plate works best as it allows room for the beef, vegetables, and any sides without crowding. If you have traditional Chinese plates, even better! The white color of the plate provides a beautiful contrast to the vibrant colors of the dish.
- Arrange Your Components: Start by placing a mound of steamed rice on one side of the plate. Then, arrange your Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce next to it. The key is to create a balance of colors and textures. The crispy, savory beef should be nestled against the bright, crisp vegetables, creating a visually appealing contrast.
- Add Your Sides: On the other side of the plate, add your chosen sides. This could be anything from a small salad to some pickled vegetables or a bowl of soup. The goal is to complement the main dish and provide a variety of flavors and textures.
- Drizzle with Sauce: If you’ve made extra orange sauce, now’s the time to drizzle it over the dish. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also gives the dish a glossy, appetizing look.
- Garnish: For a final touch, sprinkle some chopped green onions or sesame seeds over the Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef and sweet orange sauce.
- Pair with a Drink: To complete your meal, pair your Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce with a drink. A cold Tsingtao beer or a glass of plum wine complements the flavors of the dish perfectly. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a hot jasmine tea or a chilled chrysanthemum tea would be a great choice.
- Serve Immediately: Remember, Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking. The warmth of the dish enhances the flavors and makes for a comforting meal.
Serving Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce is about more than just filling your stomach; it’s about taking your taste buds on a journey. So take your time, savor each bite, and enjoy the culinary adventure that is Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats for Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chicken, pork, or even tofu. Just remember, the cooking time may vary.
Can I make Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce less sweet?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the sauce according to your taste.
Can I substitute the orange in Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce?
While fresh oranges are traditional and add a unique flavor to the dish, you can substitute them with other citrus fruits like lemon or grapefruit if needed.
In my opinion, there’s something truly special about making Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce. It’s not just about the cooking process; it’s about creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Each step, from frying the beef to making the sauce, is a labor of love that results in a dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
My fascination with Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce goes beyond its delicious taste. It’s about how a simple dish can hold so much history and culture. Whether you’re making it for the first time or have been perfecting it for years, the charm of this dish never fades. So, here’s to many more culinary adventures!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this exploration into the world of Crispy Beef in an Orange Sauce as much as I have. If you have any more questions or thoughts, don’t hesitate to reach out. After all, the joy of food is best when shared.