Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce is a culinary journey bursting with bold flavors and zesty contrasts, perfect for flavor lovers. This Thai dish combines marinated beef with a unique dipping sauce that elevates the experience. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Crying Tiger Beef with
There are many reasons to love this Crying Tiger Beef recipe. First, it’s packed with flavor, thanks to the vibrant Nam Jim Jaew sauce that enhances the marinated beef. Second, it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Third, this dish is gluten-free, accommodating dietary needs. Additionally, the grilling method ensures a delicious char, while the fresh herbs provide a refreshing contrast. Lastly, the use of simple ingredients means you can whip it up any time!
Ingredients for Crying Tiger Beef with
Gather these items:
- 1 pound Beef Steak (Substitute brisket or any lean cut for similar texture.)
- 3 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Essential for the marinade; authenticity is key.)
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Crucial for the dipping sauce; soy sauce can substitute.)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Grate for quicker incorporation.)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger (Grate for effortless blending.)
- 2 tablespoons Glutinous Rice (Toast and grind for the dipping sauce; omit for smoother sauce.)
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh juice is recommended for optimal flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Tamarind Paste (Better to omit only if aiming for sweeter taste.)
- 1 tablespoon Evaporated Cane Sugar (Regular sugar can be swapped.)
- 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Adjust based on spice tolerance; fresh chilies can substitute.)
- 1 cup Cilantro/Scallion/Shallot (Fresh herbs enhance flavor; cilantro can be replaced with mint.)
How to Make Crying Tiger Beef with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine oyster sauce, fish sauce, grated garlic, and ginger. Mix well until smooth and fully blended. Coat the beef steak generously with this flavorful marinade and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate it for deeper flavor infusion.
- Step 2: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the glutinous rice, stirring frequently until golden brown, for about 5-7 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before grinding it to a coarse powder. In a mixing bowl, combine this rice powder with fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, sugar, chili flakes, and chopped cilantro or scallions. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves.
- Step 3: Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Place the marinated beef steak diagonally onto the grill. Grill for approximately 5 minutes, rotating every 1.5 minutes to create attractive crosshatch marks.
- Step 4: Transfer the beef steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Thinly slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Step 5: Arrange the sliced Crying Tiger Beef beautifully on a platter, accompanied by fresh vegetables like cucumbers or cabbage and a bowl of your homemade Nam Jim Jaew sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips for the Best Crying Tiger Beef with
Keep these in mind:
- For an authentic flavor, use fresh herbs and high-quality sauces.
- Marinate the beef longer for deeper flavor; overnight is ideal!
- Rest the meat after grilling to ensure juiciness.
- Grilling adds a smoky flavor but can be substituted with broiling if needed.
Best Ways to Serve Crying Tiger Beef with
Here are some great serving suggestions:
- Serve with sticky rice for a traditional touch.
- Pair with fresh salad greens for a refreshing bite.
- Offer additional dipping sauces for a variety of flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crying Tiger Beef with
Why is it called Crying Tiger Beef?
The name “Crying Tiger Beef” refers to the traditional dish’s origins, where the beef is said to be so flavorful that even a tiger would cry for it. This dish embodies bold flavors and a unique preparation style, making it a true culinary delight.
Can I make Crying Tiger Beef ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the beef ahead of time, allowing flavors to develop. Just grill it closer to serving for the best results. This is a great way to prepare for gatherings!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Crying Tiger Beef?
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the beef, as it can become tough. Also, let it rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Follow the marinating instructions closely for the best flavor.
Variations of Crying Tiger Beef with You Can Try
Here are some delightful variations:
- Try using pork or chicken for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Add a variety of spices like cumin or coriander for added flavor.
- Incorporate different herbs like basil or mint alongside cilantro.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces, such as peanut sauce or a spicy chili sauce.
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat. If you’re looking for a comforting dish, our cheesy chicken noodle soup is a great option!
For more information on the health benefits of the ingredients used in this dish, you can visit Healthline’s article on garlic.
Lastly, if you’re curious about the origins of Thai cuisine, you can explore this resource on Thai cuisine for a deeper understanding.
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Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce: A Flavor Journey
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce is a culinary journey bursting with bold flavors and zesty contrasts, perfect for flavor lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Beef Steak (Substitute brisket or any lean cut for similar texture.)
- 3 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Essential for the marinade; authenticity is key.)
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Crucial for the dipping sauce; soy sauce can substitute.)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Grate for quicker incorporation.)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger (Grate for effortless blending.)
- 2 tablespoons Glutinous Rice (Toast and grind for the dipping sauce; omit for smoother sauce.)
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Fresh juice is recommended for optimal flavor.)
- 1 tablespoon Tamarind Paste (Better to omit only if aiming for sweeter taste.)
- 1 tablespoon Evaporated Cane Sugar (Regular sugar can be swapped.)
- 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Adjust based on spice tolerance; fresh chilies can substitute.)
- 1 cup Cilantro/Scallion/Shallot (Fresh herbs enhance flavor; cilantro can be replaced with mint.)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine oyster sauce, fish sauce, grated garlic, and ginger. Mix well until smooth and fully blended. Coat the beef steak generously with this flavorful marinade and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate it for deeper flavor infusion.
- In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the glutinous rice, stirring frequently until golden brown, for about 5-7 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly before grinding it to a coarse powder. In a mixing bowl, combine this rice powder with fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, sugar, chili flakes, and chopped cilantro or scallions. Mix thoroughly until the sugar dissolves.
- Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat for about 5 minutes. Place the marinated beef steak diagonally onto the grill. Grill for approximately 5 minutes, rotating every 1.5 minutes to create attractive crosshatch marks.
- Transfer the beef steak to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Thinly slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Arrange the sliced Crying Tiger Beef beautifully on a platter, accompanied by fresh vegetables like cucumbers or cabbage and a bowl of your homemade Nam Jim Jaew sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: Crying Tiger Beef, Nam Jim Jaew Sauce, Thai Beef Recipe