Name: Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce: Try This!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons fish sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; For the Nam Jim Jaew Sauce:; 1/4 cup fish sauce; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 tablespoons rice powder; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro

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Introduction to Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Get ready to ignite your taste buds with Crying Tiger Beef, a bold and smoky Thai grilled steak that’s packed with intense flavors. This dish features juicy, marinated beef grilled to perfection, served alongside Nam Jim Jaew—a tangy, spicy dipping sauce made with toasted rice powder, lime juice, chili flakes, and fresh herbs. The combination of smoky meat and zesty sauce creates an unforgettable balance of heat, tang, and umami that’s as vibrant as it is addictive.

Originating from Northern Thailand, Crying Tiger Beef is perfect for anyone who loves bold, authentic flavors and wants to bring a taste of Thai street food right to their kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something different for weeknight grilling, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Bold, Authentic Thai Flavors – Smoky grilled beef paired with a tangy, spicy dipping sauce.
Perfect Balance of Heat and Tang – Nam Jim Jaew sauce delivers a vibrant punch that complements the beef.
Simple Grilling Method – Easy to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality results.
Great for Sharing – Ideal for gatherings, barbecues, or a flavorful family dinner.
Customizable Spice Level – Adjust chili flakes and herbs to suit your heat preference.

Ingredients for Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Tender, grilled beef steak packs a smoky, charred punch that’s pure crave-worthy deliciousness. Here’s what you’ll need:

Flank Steak: This cut is lean and flavorful, perfect for marinating. You can also use sirloin or ribeye for a different texture.
Soy Sauce: Adds a savory depth to the marinade, enhancing the beef’s natural flavors.
Fish Sauce: A staple in Thai cuisine, it brings a unique umami taste that’s hard to replicate.
Brown Sugar: Balances the saltiness of the sauces and adds a hint of sweetness.
Lime Juice: Freshens up the dish with a zesty kick, brightening the overall flavor profile.
Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping.
Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the beef’s flavor.
Vegetable Oil: Used for cooking, it has a high smoke point, making it ideal for grilling.

For the Nam Jim Jaew Sauce, you’ll need:

Fish Sauce: Again, this is key for that authentic Thai flavor.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that vibrant taste.
Rice Powder: Adds a unique texture and helps thicken the sauce.
Brown Sugar: Just like in the marinade, it balances the flavors.
Chili Flakes: Adjust to your spice preference; they bring the heat!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch of flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh herbs brighten the sauce and add a refreshing note.

Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Creating Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce is a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavors. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to impressing your family or friends in no time!

Step 1: Marinate the Flank Steak

Start by seasoning the flank steak with soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic powder, and black pepper. This marinade is crucial; it infuses the meat with flavor and tenderizes it. Let the steak marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge. The longer, the better! This step is where the magic begins.

Step 2: Heat the Grill Pan

While the steak is marinating, heat your grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Getting the pan hot enough is essential for achieving that perfect sear. A sizzling sound when the meat hits the pan means you’re on the right track. This step ensures a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Remove the steak from the marinade and place it in the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you prefer it more done, adjust the time accordingly. Use a meat thermometer if you have one; 130°F is perfect for medium-rare. This step is all about timing, so keep an eye on it!

Step 4: Let it Rest

Once cooked to your liking, let the steak rest for about 5 minutes. This is a crucial step! Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Trust me, skipping this step can lead to a dry steak, and nobody wants that.

Step 5: Prepare the Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

While the steak is resting, it’s time to whip up the Nam Jim Jaew sauce. In a bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, rice powder, brown sugar, chili flakes, minced garlic, and chopped cilantro. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. This sauce is the star of the show, bringing a spicy, tangy kick that complements the beef perfectly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the rested steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve it on a platter with the Nam Jim Jaew sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color. Pair it with some jasmine rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

Tips for Success

Marinate the beef overnight for deeper flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Let the steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Adjust chili flakes in the sauce to match your spice tolerance.
Experiment with different cuts of beef for varied textures.

Equipment Needed

Grill Pan or Skillet: A cast-iron skillet works great if you don’t have a grill pan.
Meat Thermometer: Optional, but it helps ensure perfect doneness.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade and sauce.
Cutting Board: Essential for slicing the steak.
Sharp Knife: A good knife makes slicing easier and cleaner.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute flank steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tofu for a plant-based twist.
Spicy Kick: Add fresh sliced Thai chilies to the Nam Jim Jaew sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh mint or basil in the sauce for a unique flavor profile.
Low-Carb Version: Serve the beef with a side of grilled vegetables instead of rice for a keto-friendly meal.
Sweet and Savory: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the marinade for a sweet contrast to the savory beef.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serve alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch.
Complement with a cold Thai beer or a crisp white wine.
Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for a vibrant presentation.

FAQs about Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

What is Crying Tiger Beef?

Crying Tiger Beef is a Thai dish featuring marinated flank steak served with a spicy Nam Jim Jaew sauce. The name comes from the idea that the beef is so delicious, it could make a tiger cry! It’s a flavorful and tender dish that’s perfect for impressing guests.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While flank steak is traditional, you can substitute it with sirloin or ribeye for a different texture. Each cut brings its own unique flavor and tenderness, so feel free to experiment!

How spicy is the Nam Jim Jaew sauce?

The spice level of the Nam Jim Jaew sauce can be adjusted to your taste. Start with the recommended chili flakes and add more if you like it hotter. You can also include fresh sliced chilies for an extra kick!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the beef a day in advance for deeper flavor. However, it’s best to cook the steak fresh for optimal tenderness. The Nam Jim Jaew sauce can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge.

Is Crying Tiger Beef gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Enjoy this flavorful dish without worry!

Final Thoughts

Cooking Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating an experience. The vibrant flavors and aromas fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each bite of tender beef paired with that zesty sauce is a celebration of Thai cuisine that brings joy and satisfaction. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and savor the delightful journey of flavors that this recipe offers!