Crying Tiger Beef is a classic Thai grilled steak dish known for its smoky, charred exterior and tender slices, served with a bold, spicy-tangy Nam Jim Jaew dipping sauce. The name legend says the sauce is so spicy it makes tigers cry! This quick and flavorful recipe delivers authentic Isan-style flavors with minimal effort—perfect for a weeknight dinner or barbecue. 0 “LARGE” 1 “LARGE” 3 “LARGE” 6 “LARGE”

Ingredients

For the Beef:

• 1½ lbs flank steak or sirloin
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for grilling)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Marinade:

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For the Nam Jim Jaew (Dipping Sauce):

• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon toasted rice powder (khao khua – see note below)
• 1 tablespoon Thai chili flakes (or to taste for heat level)
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar or palm sugar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions

Note on Toasted Rice Powder: This nutty ingredient is key for authentic flavor. Toast uncooked glutinous or jasmine rice in a dry pan over medium heat until golden, then grind into a coarse powder.

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Rub the marinade evenly over the steak. Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to high heat. Lightly brush the grates with neutral oil. Season the marinated steak generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Grill the Steak: Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare (internal temperature 130-135°F/55-57°C), or longer to your preferred doneness. The high heat creates beautiful char marks.
4. Rest and Slice: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This keeps it juicy! Slice thinly against the grain.
5. Make the Dipping Sauce: While the steak rests, combine all Nam Jim Jaew ingredients in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Taste and adjust seasoning—more lime for tang, more chili for heat.
6. Serve: Arrange the sliced beef on a platter and serve with the Nam Jim Jaew on the side for dipping, or drizzle it over the top. Pair with sticky rice, fresh veggies, or a simple salad for a complete Thai meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating)
Calories: Approx. 560 kcal per serving
Servings: 4

This dish is all about that perfect balance of smoky, salty, sour, sweet, and spicy—pure Thai magic! 🌶️🥩