When the sun begins to set and the air turns fragrant with spices, my mind often drifts to the vibrant streets of Thailand, where the aroma of grilling meats ignites my culinary spirit. This is where I first encountered Crying Tiger Beef—a dish that effortlessly marries savory, spicy, and sweet notes in each outrageous bite. What sets this Thai delicacy apart is not merely its robust flavor but the rush of joy it brings to every gathering, turning an ordinary dinner into a memorable feast.
This recipe is crafted for those seeking a flavorful escape from mundane weeknight meals, offering an easy yet impressive way to showcase your cooking prowess. The marinated flank steak, grilled to perfection, pairs wonderfully with buttery jasmine rice and will charm even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, this dish promises to highlight the extraordinary beauty of homemade food, leaving fast food far behind.
Why is Crying Tiger Beef a Must-Try?
Exquisite flavors: The blend of savory, spicy, and sweet notes makes each bite an enticingly complex experience.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, this dish allows you to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
Versatile options: Substitute with chicken or tofu to cater to different tastes, ensuring everyone at your table enjoys!
Perfect for gatherings: This dish transforms any occasion into a culinary celebration, making it a favorite among friends and family.
Comforting and satisfying: Pair it with fragrant jasmine rice for a cozy, delightful meal that feels indulgent yet light.
Explore other exciting recipes like our Thai-inspired dishes to elevate your culinary adventures!
Crying Tiger Beef Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Flank Steak – The star of your dish; tender and flavorful cuts ensure the best marinated beef experience.
• Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; consider low-sodium options for a less salty dish.
• Fish Sauce – Adds a depth of savory flavor typical in Thai cooking; use coconut aminos as a non-fish alternative.
• Brown Sugar – Balances the saltiness of soy with sweetness; white sugar or honey can serve as substitutes.
• Lime Juice – Adds acidity and freshness; fresh lime juice is preferred over bottled for the best flavor.
• Garlic – Enhances the complexity of flavors; substitute with garlic powder in a pinch.
• Black Pepper – Brings a touch of heat; freshly ground will provide the best flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds spice; adjust according to your heat preference.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil – Key for cooking to create a nice sear; any neutral oil can be used.
For Garnish
• Fresh Cilantro – Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color; can substitute with fresh parsley if preferred.
• Cucumber – Provides a refreshing crunch on the side; any mild salad vegetable can replace if unavailable.
• Jasmine Rice – Serves as the fragrant base; substitute with basmati or any rice of choice.
• Sesame Seeds – Optional garnish for added texture and visual appeal.
Get ready to savor the vibrant flavors of Crying Tiger Beef—a delightful dish perfect for any meal!
How to Make Crying Tiger Beef
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Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. This fragrant blend forms the flavor foundation for our delicious dish.
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Marinate the Steak: Coat the flank steak thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring every inch is covered. Refrigerate it for 1 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat for that extra wow factor.
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Cook the Rice: Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Boil in a pot with the appropriate amount of water, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, then let it sit for another 10 minutes off the heat before fluffing with a fork.
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Sear the Steak: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove excess marinade from the steak and sear it on one side for 4 to 5 minutes; then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes for a perfect medium-rare finish. Adjust the timing for your preferred doneness.
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Rest and Slice the Steak: Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice against the grain into thin strips to ensure every bite is tender and juicy.
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Serve and Garnish: Place a bed of jasmine rice on each plate, top with the sliced beef, and garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds. Don’t forget to add fresh cucumber slices on the side for a delightful crunch.
Optional: Drizzle some extra lime juice for an added zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Crying Tiger Beef is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the flank steak up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify while it refrigerates. Additionally, you can cook the jasmine rice up to 3 days ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, reheat the rice gently in a saucepan with a splash of water to keep it fluffy. When you’re ready to serve, quickly sear the marinated steak to your desired doneness, slice, and garnish as directed. This strategy not only saves time on busy weeknights but also ensures your meal is just as delicious and flavorful!
Crying Tiger Beef Variations
Dive into the delicious world of customization and make this dish uniquely yours!
- Cut Substitution: Use skirt steak or sirloin for a different texture; chicken or tofu work fantastically for a lighter option. Each choice brings its own essence to the plate.
- Spicy Twist: Add more red pepper flakes or even a splash of sriracha to crank up the heat! Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect fiery balance.
- Sweet Swap: Substitute brown sugar for honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile—this can also enhance the flavor depth in your marinade.
- Fresh Herb Boost: Add fresh basil or mint along with cilantro for a garden-fresh aroma that elevates the dish to another level of freshness. Mixing herbs can create delightful surprises!
- Rice Alternatives: Swap jasmine rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist that still complements the main star, the beef.
- Umami Punch: Incorporate a dash of oyster sauce into the marinade for an extra umami kick that deepens the savory experience, delighting your taste buds even further.
- Zesty Addition: Mix in some grated lime zest with the marinade for a brighter flavor profile. The citrus notes beautifully enhance the taste of the grilled beef.
- Crunchy Topping: Toasted peanuts or cashews can add a pleasing crunch and nutty flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the tender beef and soft rice.
Let your culinary creativity shine—each variation brings a new adventure to the dining table!
Expert Tips for Crying Tiger Beef
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Room Temperature Steak: Ensure your steak is at room temperature before cooking to achieve a perfect sear and even cooking throughout.
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Proper Resting: Don’t forget to let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking; this key step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy slices.
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Marinade Duration: For an optimal flavor boost, marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour, but 4 hours is even better for deeper flavor infusion.
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Searing Technique: Sear the steak on a high heat to create a beautiful crust while maintaining a tender interior; avoid overcrowding the pan for best results.
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Dipping Sauce Idea: Enhance your Crying Tiger Beef experience by making a simple dipping sauce with lime juice, fish sauce, and a touch of sugar for added zing.
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Flavor Customization: Feel free to adjust the level of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference, making the dish perfect for all palates!
What to Serve with Crying Tiger Beef?
Create an unforgettable dining experience by complementing each dish with vibrant and refreshing sides that elevate your meal.
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Coconut Sticky Rice: A delightful and slightly sweet contrast to the savory beef, this sticky treat enhances the Thai flavors beautifully. The creaminess perfectly balances the spice.
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Thai Herb Salad: This fresh combination of herbs and vegetables brings a refreshing crunch and brightness to the table. Tossed in a light dressing, it helps cleanse the palate between bites.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add texture and smoky flavor, making a vibrant addition to your plate. Their caramelized sweetness pairs harmoniously with the savory beef.
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Pinneapple Fried Rice: This dish adds a tropical twist, combining sticky rice with juicy pineapples and aromatic spices. It’s a fun, flavorful accompaniment, sweetening each bite of the dish.
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Spicy Thai Noodles: Stir-fried noodles tossed in a zesty sauce create a beautiful harmony with the rich flavors of the beef. Its chewiness provides a satisfying texture that complements the meal.
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Lime and Mint Infused Water: A light and refreshing drink to cleanse your palate. The soothing flavors make it perfect for balancing the richness of the Crying Tiger Beef, enhancing the overall experience.
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Mango Sticky Rice: This classic dessert showcases sweet, ripe mangoes sitting atop coconut sticky rice. It offers a perfect sweet note to round off your meal, leaving everyone smiling.
How to Store and Freeze Crying Tiger Beef
Fridge: Store leftover Crying Tiger Beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the beef in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain tenderness.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure your container is airtight to preserve the amazing flavors and prevent freezer burn, keeping your Crying Tiger Beef delightful even after freezing!
Crying Tiger Beef Recipe FAQs
What is the best cut of meat to use for Crying Tiger Beef?
Absolutely! Flank steak is the traditional choice because of its tenderness and flavor. However, you can also use skirt steak or sirloin for a similar taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, chicken or firm tofu can create a delightful variation while still soaking up all the yummy marinade!
How should I store leftovers of Crying Tiger Beef?
Very simple! Store your leftover Crying Tiger Beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to avoid condensation, which can make your beef less enjoyable.
Can I freeze Crying Tiger Beef, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! Simply place the cooled beef in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. For best results, consume within 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a skillet to keep it tender and flavorful.
What do I do if my beef is tough after cooking?
To ensure tender slices, always slice against the grain when serving. If your beef ends up tough, it might be due to overcooking or using a lower-quality cut. Next time, consider marinating longer for deeper flavor or checking the meat’s doneness more carefully with a thermometer.
Is Crying Tiger Beef suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can make this dish gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring your fish sauce is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy all the rich flavors without worry!
Can I use a different type of rice with this dish?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice is traditional and pairs wonderfully with Crying Tiger Beef, you can substitute it with basmati or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each brings its own lovely texture and flavor that can complement the dish beautifully.
Crying Tiger Beef Recipe FAQs
Savory Thai Crying Tiger Beef: A Flavorful Feast Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Coat the flank steak thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring every inch is covered. Refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours.
- Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Boil in a pot with the appropriate amount of water, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes, then sit off the heat for another 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove excess marinade from the steak and sear it on one side for 4 to 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips.
- Place a bed of jasmine rice on each plate, top with the sliced beef, and garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds. Add cucumber slices on the side.
