Crying Tiger Beef is a tasty dish featuring grilled beef that’s packed with flavor. It’s served with a delicious dipping sauce that adds a spicy kick!
This meal is great for gatherings. I love the mouthwatering aroma when the beef is grilling. Plus, who can resist that zingy sauce? It makes every bite exciting! 😋
When I make this, I serve it with fresh veggies on the side. It’s super easy to cook and perfect for impressing friends at dinner! Simple and fun, that’s my style!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Sirloin or ribeye steak works best for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak can be used too. Just remember to cut against the grain for tenderness!
Fish Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, soy sauce or mushroom sauce works, though it will change the taste slightly.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice lifts the dish! In a pinch, lemon juice can substitute, but fresh lime is preferred for its unique flavor.
Toasted Rice Powder: It adds a nutty texture. If you can’t find sticky rice, you can skip this or use a blend of toasted sesame seeds for a different touch!
How Do You Grill the Perfect Beef for Crying Tiger?
Grilling the beef correctly makes a huge difference. Start with a hot grill so you get a nice sear which locks in juices. Remember to brush the beef with oil to avoid sticking.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes per side for medium rare, adjusting time as per your preference.
- Letting the beef rest for 5 minutes after grilling helps retain its juices. Washing this step will result in tough meat!
What’s the Best Way to Make the Dipping Sauce?
Mixing the sauce is straightforward but flavorful! A good tip is to ensure that the sugar dissolves completely, which balances the salty and spicy components.
- Combine all sauce ingredients and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Taste and adjust heat based on your love for spice!
- Add extra herbs for freshness. Fresh cilantro or mint can enhance the flavor.
These ingredients and techniques will help you create a delicious Crying Tiger Beef that’s full of flavor and sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Crying Tiger Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or ribeye steak, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for grilling)
For the Marinade and Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp toasted rice powder (optional, see instructions)
- 1 tbsp palm sugar or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2-3 Thai red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tsp chili flakes or ground dried chili (optional for more heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus about 10 minutes for grilling. You’ll wow your family and friends with a delicious meal ready in less than half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by trimming away any excess fat from the steak to ensure it cooks evenly. Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then lightly brush both sides with vegetable oil to prevent it from sticking on the grill. This prep is key to achieving that perfect sear!
2. Toast Rice Powder (Optional):
If you’re using toasted rice powder for added flavor and texture, heat a dry pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of uncooked sticky rice or jasmine rice and toast it by stirring frequently until it turns golden brown. Let it cool, then grind it into a coarse powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Set it aside.
3. Grill the Beef:
Now for the fun part! Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Once it’s hot, place the steak on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side for medium rare (you can adjust the time if you like your beef more or less cooked). When done, remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to keep those juicy flavors locked in.
4. Make the Sauce:
While the steak is resting, it’s time to whip up the dipping sauce! In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, minced garlic, chopped chilies, cilantro, green onions, and the optional toasted rice powder. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and your sauce is well combined. Feel free to adjust the spiciness by adding more chilies or chili flakes!
5. Slice and Serve:
Once the beef has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. Arrange the slices on a serving plate and generously drizzle the sauce over the beef, or serve the sauce in a small bowl on the side for dipping. Don’t forget to garnish with extra chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for a joyful presentation!
6. Enjoy!
Crying Tiger Beef shines when served with sticky rice and a side of fresh vegetables or salad. The hot, spicy, tangy, and savory flavors of the sauce make this dish absolutely irresistible!
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This dish is sure to leave everyone satisfied with the wonderful infusion of Thai flavors. Enjoy your culinary adventure with Crying Tiger Beef!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin and ribeye are great choices, you can also use flank steak or tenderloin. Just remember to slice against the grain for the best texture.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the number of Thai chilies or omit the chili flakes. For a spicier kick, feel free to add more chilies or even some hot chili oil to the sauce!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the beef ahead of time for even more flavor! Just keep the marinade separate until you’re ready to grill. The sauce can also be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, just give it a stir before serving.
What Sides Pair Well with Crying Tiger Beef?
This dish pairs wonderfully with sticky rice, fresh salads, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve it with a cold and refreshing cucumber salad to balance the heat!