Name: Savory Crying Tiger Beef with Spicy Nam Jim Jaew Sauce Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian option.); 2 tablespoons Fish Sauce (Use tamari to keep it gluten-free.); 8 grams Garlic (Grated, adjust quantity to taste.); 8 grams Ginger (Grated, fresh ginger is recommended.); 400 grams Beef Steak (No more than 1-inch thick; brisket or ribeye is ideal.); White Pepper (Optional based on your taste preference.); 12 grams Glutinous Rice (Substitute could be cooked rice flour.); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh lime is essential for authentic flavor.); 1 tablespoon Tamarind Paste (A splash of vinegar can be a substitute.); 1 tablespoon Evaporated Cane Sugar (Brown sugar or coconut sugar can be used instead.); 2 teaspoons Chili Flakes (Adjust for your spice tolerance.); 10 grams Cilantro or Mint (Chopped, substitute with green onions for milder flavor.); 10 grams Scallion (Chopped, optional or can be replaced with chives.); 16 grams Shallot (Minced, optional; reduce if substituting with yellow onion.)

The sizzle of grilled beef wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to the vibrant street food scene of Thailand. Today, I’m excited to share my take on the irresistible Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce, a dish that delivers a party of flavors in every bite. This recipe is not only stunning in presentation but also a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, it’s loaded with protein, and for those seeking gluten-free options, I’ve got you covered with clever substitutions. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure that’s sure to impress your family or guests—are you ready to create a dish that could spark your next grilling obsession?

Why is Crying Tiger Beef Irresistible?

Flavorful Explosion: This dish is a delightful blend of smoky grilled beef combined with a zesty, spicy dipping sauce that will dance on your taste buds.
Protein-packed goodness: Perfect for meat lovers, Crying Tiger Beef is loaded with protein, making it an excellent choice for filling meals without the carbs.
Customizable Options: Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative or want to switch up the meat, this recipe accommodates everyone, just like my Garlic Butter Sauce.
Effortless Cooking: You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up this restaurant-quality meal at home. The marinating and grilling process is a breeze!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve it at your next gathering, and watch your friends rave about this Thai classic that’s sure to steal the show, much like a flavorful Cheeseburger Salad Sauce!

Crying Tiger Beef Ingredients

• Elevate your dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Marinade

Oyster Sauce – Adds umami depth to the marinade; substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
Fish Sauce – Provides saltiness and complexity to the dish; use tamari to keep it gluten-free.
Garlic (8 grams, grated) – Infuses the beef with aromatic flavor; adjust quantity to taste.
Ginger (8 grams, grated) – Enhances flavor with warmth; fresh ginger is recommended.

For the Beef

Beef Steak (400 grams, no more than 1-inch thick) – Choose high-quality cuts for the best flavor; brisket or ribeye is ideal.
White Pepper – Adds a subtle heat after slicing; optional based on your taste preference.

For the Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Glutinous Rice (12 grams) – Creates a nutty texture; a substitute could be cooked rice flour, though it lacks toastiness.
Lime Juice (2 tablespoons) – Brings acidity and brightness; fresh lime is essential for authentic flavor.
Tamarind Paste (1 tablespoon) – Balances sweetness and heat; a splash of vinegar can be a substitute in a pinch.
Evaporated Cane Sugar (1 tablespoon) – Balances the sauce’s flavors; brown sugar or coconut sugar can be used instead.
Chili Flakes (2 teaspoons) – Adjust for your spice tolerance; more flakes mean more heat!
Cilantro or Mint (10 grams, chopped) – Fresh herb garnish; substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
Scallion (10 grams, chopped) – Offers mild onion flavor; optional or can be replaced with chives.
Shallot (16 grams, minced, optional) – Adds additional flavor; reduce the amount if substituting with yellow onion.

With these ingredients, your Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce will be a showstopper that captures the essence of Thai cuisine! 🍽️

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Beef
In a medium bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, fish sauce, grated garlic, and ginger until well combined. Coat the beef steak thoroughly with this marinade, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature; for optimal flavor, marinate for up to two hours in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare Nam Jim Jaew Sauce
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the glutinous rice until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Once toasted, grind the rice into a coarse powder using a spice grinder. In a bowl, combine this rice powder with fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, evaporated cane sugar, chili flakes, and chopped cilantro and scallion, mix until the sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Grill the Beef
Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until hot. Add the marinated beef steak to the pan, grilling each side for approximately 2.5 minutes. Create crosshatch marks by turning the steak 90 degrees halfway through cooking. Aim for a medium-rare finish; adjust the time based on the thickness of your steak.

Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once the beef is grilled to your liking, transfer it to a cutting board and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This step is crucial for tenderness. After resting, slice the beef thinly against the grain, showcasing the juicy interior and caramelized exterior, ready to be paired with the Nam Jim Jaew sauce.

Step 5: Serve
To serve your flavorful Crying Tiger Beef, place the sliced beef on a platter and top with a sprinkle of white pepper and a generous dusting of toasted rice powder. Accompany it with cool, crisp vegetables and the Nam Jim Jaew sauce for dipping, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors that enhance each bite.

How to Store and Freeze Crying Tiger Beef

Fridge: Store leftover Crying Tiger Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it down before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to label for easy identification.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, covered, to retain moisture and tenderness.

Leftover Sauce: If you have excess Nam Jim Jaew sauce, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week—perfect for drizzling over salads or grilled veggies!

Make Ahead Options

Make your Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce even more convenient by prepping ahead! You can marinate the beef for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply mix your marinade and coat the beef, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to grill. Additionally, the Nam Jim Jaew sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, grill the marinated beef and let it rest before slicing. This ensures a quick turnaround, perfect for busy weeknights while still delivering restaurant-quality results.

What to Serve with Crying Tiger Beef with Spicy Nam Jim Jaew Sauce?

Elevate your dining experience with vibrant sides that beautifully complement the bold flavors of this Thai masterpiece.

Cool Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that balances the spiciness of the beef, providing a perfect crunch and freshness.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Soft and fragrant rice absorbs the spicy sauce, creating a comforting element that rounds out the plate beautifully.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add a smoky flavor, enhancing the meal’s depth while keeping it healthy.
Savory Thai Dipping Sauce: A drizzle of sweet chili sauce adds sweetness and depth; it works wonderfully with the heat of the beef.
Thai Mango Salad: Bright, zesty, and slightly sweet, this salad contrasts nicely with the savory flavors, making each bite exciting.
Thai Iced Tea: Creamy and sweet, this beverage serves as a delightful counterpart to the spicy heat of the dish, ensuring balance.
Coconut Rice Pudding: For dessert, serve warm coconut rice pudding to end the meal on a comforting, sweet note, enhancing the Thai theme.
Chilled Sake: A chilled sake pairs beautifully, softening the dish’s spices and adding a sophisticated touch to your dining experience.
Lemongrass Lemonade: Refreshing and slight citrusy, this drink cleanses the palate, preparing you for another savory experience with every bite.
Grilled Pineapple Slices: Sweet, caramelized pineapple brings a fruity twist that elevates the overall meal, providing a tropical finish.

Crying Tiger Beef Varieties

Explore delightful twists on your Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce to suit every palate and occasion!

Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for grilled tofu or jackfruit for a plant-based delight that still sings with flavor.
Pork Alternative: Try using pork tenderloin instead of beef for a different but equally delicious protein choice, adding a unique tang.
Chicken Twist: Marinade chicken breasts in the same sauce, grilling to perfection and offering another take on this Thai classic.
Extra Veggies: Include colorful bell peppers or grilled asparagus for a fresh hit of veggies, elevating both flavor and presentation.
Zesty Citrus: Add zest from lime or a splash of orange juice to the marinade for an extra layer of brightness in flavor.
Curried Variation: Mix in a touch of curry powder to the marinade for a unique twist that’s sure to impress adventurous eaters.
Rice Substitution: Serve with fragrant coconut rice or jasmine rice to complement the dipping sauce with a hint of sweetness.
Spice It Up: Incorporate fresh chopped chili for a fiery kick if you crave a serious spice upgrade alongside your crispy beef bites.

Feel free to experiment with these suggestions to create a meal that suits your tastes, just like my Beef and Broccoli Healthy recipe which showcases how versatile ingredients can be when combined!

Expert Tips for Crying Tiger Beef

Marination Time Matters: Allow at least 30 minutes for the beef to soak in the flavors, but up to two hours will make it even more tender and flavorful.
Grilling Technique: For perfect crosshatch grill marks, rotate the beef 90 degrees halfway through cooking each side. This enhances both appearance and flavor!
Rest the Meat: Let the grilled beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures juicy, tender pieces that are perfect for pairing with the Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce.
Control the Spice: Adjust chili flakes in the sauce to suit your heat tolerance. Start small and add more if you love a spicy kick!
High Heat for Sear: Use a hot grill pan to achieve a perfect sear, locking in moisture and flavor for an irresistible exterior.

Crying Tiger Beef with Spicy Nam Jim Jaew Sauce Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Crying Tiger Beef?
For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using high-quality cuts like brisket or ribeye, no thicker than 1 inch. Look for beef that is bright red with marbling to ensure juiciness.

How should I store leftover Crying Tiger Beef?
Store leftover Crying Tiger Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain optimal freshness and avoid moisture buildup.

Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
Absolutely! Wrap the portions of the Crying Tiger Beef tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date for future reference!

What can I do if I accidentally overcook the beef?
If you find your beef has turned out a bit tough due to overcooking, don’t despair! You can slice it thinly against the grain and serve it with plenty of Nam Jim Jaew sauce; the sauce’s acidity and flavor can help enhance the overall experience. Alternatively, add it to stir-fries or soups to introduce moisture back into the dish.

Are there any gluten-free options for the marinade and sauce?
Yes, indeed! For a gluten-free version of the Crying Tiger Beef, substitute the oyster sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, ensure that your fish sauce is gluten-free. These swaps will keep the recipe delicious without the gluten!

How do I know if my ingredients are fresh enough to use?
For optimal flavor, use fresh ingredients: garlic should be firm and not sprouted, while ginger should be vibrantly colored with no soft spots. For lime juice, always use fresh limes for the best acidity; avoid bottled juices as they can alter the flavor profile significantly.