Crying Tiger Beef, or Suea Rong Hai, is a flavorful Thai grilled beef dish served with Nam Jim Jaew, a tangy, spicy dipping sauce. The dish gets its name from the legend that the beef is so delicious it could make a tiger cry! With its smoky, charred exterior and juicy interior, paired with the bold, umami-packed sauce, this dish is a must-try for any Thai food lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and flavorful – Smoky, charred beef paired with a tangy, spicy dipping sauce.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality results.
Customizable spice level – Adjust the heat in the Nam Jim Jaew sauce to your preference.
Perfect for grilling season – A great dish for BBQs and outdoor cooking.
Authentic Thai taste – Packed with umami, spice, and freshness.

Ingredients

Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Beef Marinade

Beef ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak
Soy sauce
Fish sauce
Oyster sauce
Brown sugar
Garlic (minced)
Black pepper
Vegetable oil

For the Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Fish sauce
Lime juice
Tamarind paste
Palm sugar (or brown sugar)
Thai dried chili flakes
Toasted rice powder
Shallots (finely chopped)
Green onions (chopped)
Cilantro (chopped)

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, garlic, black pepper, and vegetable oil.
Marinate the beef: Coat the beef in the marinade and let it sit for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Make the Nam Jim Jaew Sauce

Mix the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, tamarind paste, and palm sugar until well combined.
Add spice and aromatics: Stir in Thai dried chili flakes, toasted rice powder, shallots, green onions, and cilantro. Set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Beef

Preheat the grill: Set to high heat. If using a pan, heat over medium-high.
Grill the steak: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
Rest the beef: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 4: Serve

Slice the beef: Arrange on a plate and serve with a bowl of Nam Jim Jaew sauce.
Garnish: Sprinkle with extra toasted rice powder and chopped herbs.
Pair with sides: Enjoy with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 1 hour (or overnight)
Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add more chili flakes or fresh Thai chilies to the sauce.
Mild Version: Reduce chili and add honey for a sweeter balance.
Alternative Proteins: Try pork or chicken instead of beef.
Pan-Seared Option: Use a cast-iron skillet if grilling isn’t an option.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store beef in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat to avoid overcooking.
Sauce Storage: Nam Jim Jaew can be refrigerated for up to a week.

FAQs

Why is it called “Crying Tiger” beef?

The name comes from a Thai legend, suggesting the beef is so delicious it could make a tiger cry.

What cut of beef is best for this dish?

Ribeye, sirloin, or flank steak work best for tenderness and flavor.

Can I cook this on a stovetop?

Yes! Use a hot cast-iron skillet or grill pan for a nice sear.

How do I make toasted rice powder?

Toast uncooked sticky rice in a dry pan until golden, then grind into a coarse powder.

Is Nam Jim Jaew very spicy?

It can be, but you can adjust the chili flakes to your heat preference.

What’s the best way to serve Crying Tiger Beef?

Serve with sticky rice, fresh herbs, and sliced cucumbers for balance.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Marinate and grill chicken thighs for a delicious alternative.

How do I get a good sear on the beef?

Use high heat and avoid flipping too often. Let it develop a crust before turning.

What makes Nam Jim Jaew so flavorful?

The combination of fish sauce, lime, tamarind, and toasted rice powder gives it a deep umami taste.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the beef overnight for even better flavor, and make the sauce a day in advance.

Conclusion

Crying Tiger Beef with Nam Jim Jaew Sauce is a must-try dish for lovers of bold Thai flavors. The smoky, grilled beef pairs perfectly with the tangy, spicy dipping sauce, making for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking on the stovetop, this dish is sure to impress!