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Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew


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  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Crying Tiger Beef is a bold and smoky Thai dish featuring juicy grilled steak paired with Nam Jim Jaew, a spicy, tangy, and umami-rich dipping sauce. Packed with authentic Thai flavors, this dish is perfect for grill nights, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

For the Beef:

  • 1 pound flank steak or ribeye (flavorful & tender cut)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For Nam Jim Jaew (Thai Dipping Sauce):

  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce (salty umami depth)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (zesty tang)
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (sweet-sour balance)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder (khao khua) (adds nutty crunch)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onion

Instructions

1️⃣ Marinate the Beef:

  • In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and vegetable oil.
  • Coat the steak evenly and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

2️⃣ Prepare Nam Jim Jaew (Dipping Sauce):

  • In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, sugar, and chili flakes.
  • Stir in toasted rice powder, minced garlic, cilantro, and green onion.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3️⃣ Grill the Beef:

  • Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
  • Grill the steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (or longer for your preferred doneness).
  • Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

4️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:

  • Arrange the sliced beef on a plate.
  • Serve alongside Nam Jim Jaew for dipping.
  • Pair with sticky rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh Thai salad!

Notes

Make It Extra Smoky: Add charcoal grilling or use a cast-iron grill pan for more depth.
Adjust the Spice: Increase chili flakes for heat or add honey for a milder balance.
No Tamarind Paste? Swap with a mix of lime juice & honey for similar tangy-sweetness.
Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the steak overnight, then grill fresh for an easy meal.
Gluten-Free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Grilled Recipes, Thai Cuisine
  • Method: Grilling, Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: Thai, Asian-Inspired