If you have been searching for a dish that bursts with bold, unforgettable flavors and a delightful contrast of textures, look no further than this Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe. This Thai-inspired marvel combines succulent, perfectly grilled beef with a zesty, spicy dipping sauce that will awaken your taste buds and have you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to impress friends, this recipe delivers an exciting culinary experience that’s both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and spicy notes in this dish. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture that turn this meal into a showstopper.
- 1 pound flank steak or ribeye: Choose a flavorful and tender cut for the best grilling results.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a subtle salty depth to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Brings authentic umami flavor essential for Thai cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances out the saltiness with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps the marinade coat the beef evenly and prevents sticking to the grill.
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce: For the dipping sauce, delivering that salty umami punch.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Offers a zesty tang that brightens the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon tamarind paste: Provides a sweet-sour balance crucial to Nam Jim Jaew.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: More sweetness to round out the dipping sauce.
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes: Adds a smoky, spicy kick—adjust according to your heat preference.
- 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder (khao khua): Gives the sauce a nutty crunch and earthy aroma.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with pungent, fragrant notes.
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro: Adds fresh herbal brightness.
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onion: Contributes mild oniony sharpness and color.
How to Make Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by whisking together soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and vegetable oil in a bowl. This simple yet flavorful marinade tenderizes the meat and primes it with that signature Thai savory-sweet balance. Coat your chosen cut of flank steak or ribeye thoroughly and let it soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, marinate overnight to allow the beef to develop even deeper flavor notes that will shine through during grilling.
Step 2: Prepare Nam Jim Jaew (Dipping Sauce)
The magic of the Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe really comes alive with the dipping sauce. In a separate bowl, combine fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, sugar, and chili flakes to start building lovely layers of salty, tart, sweet, and spicy taste. Next, fold in the toasted rice powder which adds a wonderful nutty crunch you won’t find in many other sauces. Finish with minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and green onion for vibrant fresh bursts of flavor. Taste and tweak the seasoning until it sings to your palate.
Step 3: Grill the Beef
Heat up your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook your marinated beef for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side if you prefer it medium-rare—this timing ensures the meat stays juicy and tender while developing that irresistible char. Let the steak rest for roughly 5 minutes after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every bite packed with flavor and moisture. When ready, slice the beef thinly across the grain for the best texture and tenderness.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your beautifully sliced beef on a platter alongside a generous bowl of spicy Nam Jim Jaew dipping sauce. The combination is perfect for dipping and savoring each bite. This dish pairs wonderfully with sticky rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh Thai-style salad, making it a versatile centerpiece for any occasion. Dive in and enjoy the burst of taste that only Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe can deliver!
How to Serve Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped cilantro and green onions over your sliced beef to add a pop of color and freshness. A wedge of lime on the side invites diners to add a zesty squeeze before sampling. If you enjoy a bit more heat, some fresh sliced chilies or a dash of chili flakes on top can amp up the excitement.
Side Dishes
Sticky jasmine rice is the classic companion to Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe because it helps temper the heat of the dipping sauce and soaks up every drop of flavor. Grilled or charred veggies like asparagus, bell peppers, or eggplant offer a smoky balance and added texture. For a refreshing contrast, try a crisp Thai green papaya salad or a simple cucumber salad dressed with fish sauce, lime, and a hint of sugar.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve this dish family-style on a large wooden board with small bowls of the Nam Jim Jaew sauce for communal dipping. You can also turn it into a vibrant wrap station with lettuce leaves and fresh herbs where everyone can build their own flavorful bundles. Another fun option is slicing the beef thin enough for bite-sized skewers served as party appetizers with the dipping sauce on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cooked Crying Tiger Beef in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked beef if needed by wrapping portions tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. The beef will keep well for up to 2 months. For best quality, freeze the Nam Jim Jaew sauce separately as it contains fresh ingredients that may change texture when frozen.
Reheating
To reheat your beef, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the meat. Serve with freshly prepared Nam Jim Jaew sauce or chilled leftover sauce for the most authentic experience. Avoid microwave reheating if possible as it can toughen the beef.
FAQs
What cut of beef works best for Crying Tiger Beef?
Flank steak or ribeye are ideal because they have a good balance of tenderness and flavor, making them perfect for quick grilling and thin slicing.
Can I make the Nam Jim Jaew sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a stir before serving.
Is Crying Tiger Beef very spicy?
The heat level can be adjusted to your taste by modifying the amount of chili flakes used in the sauce. It’s delicious with a mild kick or cranked up for spice lovers.
Can I cook this recipe indoors without a grill?
Absolutely. A grill pan or heavy skillet on the stovetop works great to achieve that nice sear and char if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
What can I serve with Crying Tiger Beef for a full meal?
Pair it with sticky rice, grilled vegetables, and a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors with freshness and texture. Thai iced tea or a citrusy beer also complements the dish beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try this amazing Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe at home. Its bold, layered flavors and simple cooking steps make it a winner for both casual dinners and special occasions. Once you taste the tender beef dipped in that spicy, tangy sauce, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved Thai classic that deserves a spot in your recipe collection!
Print
Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Thai
Description
Crying Tiger Beef is a flavorful and tender grilled Thai steak served with a zesty and spicy Nam Jim Jaew dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, and toasted rice powder. This dish is perfect for a quick yet impressive meal, showcasing the bold flavors of Thai cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Beef Marinade
- 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 the Nam Jim Jaew (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
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and vegetable oil. Coat the steak evenly with the marinade and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a deeper flavor infusion.
- Prepare Nam Jim Jaew (Dipping Sauce): Combine fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, sugar, and chili flakes in a small bowl. Stir in toasted rice powder, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, and green onion. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Grill the Beef: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the marinated steak for 4 to 5 minutes on each side to achieve medium-rare doneness, or cook longer depending on your preferred level of doneness. Remove from heat and let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.
- Serve & Enjoy: Arrange the sliced beef on a serving plate and serve it alongside the Nam Jim Jaew dipping sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with sticky rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh Thai salad for a complete meal experience.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the beef overnight to enhance flavors.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your preferred spice level for Nam Jim Jaew.
- Use flank steak or ribeye for the ideal balance of flavor and tenderness.
- To make toasted rice powder (khao khua): Toast raw sticky rice in a dry pan until golden brown and grind it finely.
- Letting the meat rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak juicier.
