Get ready to awaken your taste buds with Crying Tiger Beef—a flavorful recipe that packs a punch of bold, savory goodness! This Thai-inspired dish features tender, grilled beef served with a tangy, spicy dipping sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The name “Crying Tiger” comes from the fiery heat of the sauce combined with the irresistible charred beef, making each bite a thrilling mix of smoky, savory, and spicy. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat, this dish brings a bold, unforgettable twist to your dinner table. Ready to discover a whole new level of flavor? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Crying Tiger Beef
This Crying Tiger Beef recipe is a lifesaver for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those nights when time is tight. The flavors are bold and vibrant, transporting you straight to Thailand with every bite. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! Your family will rave about the tender beef and fresh garnishes, leaving you feeling like a culinary superstar without the stress.
Ingredients for Crying Tiger Beef
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Crying Tiger Beef a success. Here’s what you’ll need:
Flank Steak: This cut is lean and flavorful, perfect for marinating. You can also use sirloin or skirt steak for a different twist.
Soy Sauce: Adds a savory depth to the marinade. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Fish Sauce: A staple in Thai cuisine, it brings umami and a hint of saltiness. Don’t skip this; it’s essential for authentic flavor!
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the beef.
Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness, helping to caramelize the beef when cooked.
Garlic Powder: For a subtle garlic flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Black Pepper: A simple seasoning that enhances the overall taste.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust to your spice preference! They add a nice kick to the dish.
Vegetable Oil: Used for cooking, it has a high smoke point, making it ideal for searing the beef.
Fresh Cilantro: A must for garnish! It adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the beef beautifully.
Lime Wedges: Serve on the side for an extra burst of citrus when eating.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Crying Tiger Beef
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering Crying Tiger Beef. Each step is simple, ensuring you can whip this up even on the busiest of nights!
Step 1: Prepare the Flank Steak
Start by slicing the flank steak against the grain. This means cutting across the fibers of the meat, not with them. Doing this will help ensure that each bite is tender and easy to chew. Aim for strips about 1/4 inch thick. Trust me, this little trick makes a world of difference!
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful marinade that will infuse the beef with deliciousness. Make sure everything is well mixed, so each piece of meat gets coated evenly.
Step 3: Marinate the Beef
Now it’s time to marinate the beef! Add the sliced flank steak to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs. It’s like a mini vacation for your beef!
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Cook the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remember, you want it juicy, not overcooked!
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. The bright colors and fresh herbs make this dish as beautiful as it is tasty!
Tips for Success
Always slice the flank steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Don’t rush the marinating process; longer marination equals more flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 135°F is perfect for medium-rare.
Let the beef rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes.
Equipment Needed
Skillet or Grill Pan: A non-stick skillet works well, but a cast-iron pan adds great flavor.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the marinade; a fork can work in a pinch.
Cutting Board: A sturdy board is crucial for slicing the beef safely.
Sharp Knife: A good knife makes slicing the flank steak a breeze.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Handy for precise ingredient measurements.
Variations of Crying Tiger Beef
Spicy Crying Tiger: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade for an extra kick.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or mint into the marinade for a fragrant twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute flank steak with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
Grilled Version: Instead of pan-frying, grill the marinated beef for a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
Low-Carb Adaptation: Serve the beef over a bed of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions for Crying Tiger Beef
Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious juices.
Fresh Salad: A light cucumber or mango salad adds a refreshing crunch.
Cold Beer: A crisp lager complements the bold flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve on a colorful platter with lime wedges and cilantro for a vibrant look.
FAQs about Crying Tiger Beef
As you embark on your culinary adventure with Crying Tiger Beef, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I use a different cut of beef for Crying Tiger Beef?
Absolutely! While flank steak is traditional, you can also use sirloin or skirt steak. Each cut brings its own unique flavor and texture.
How spicy is Crying Tiger Beef?
The spice level can be adjusted to your taste. Start with the recommended amount of red pepper flakes, and feel free to add more if you like it hot!
Can I make Crying Tiger Beef ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef a few hours in advance or even overnight. Just remember to cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best flavor.
What can I serve with Crying Tiger Beef?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fresh salads, or even grilled vegetables. The options are endless!
Is Crying Tiger Beef gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish is a great option for those avoiding gluten. Enjoy without worry!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Crying Tiger Beef is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy for you and your loved ones. The vibrant flavors and tender beef will transport you to a bustling Thai market, all from the comfort of your kitchen. I love how this dish brings everyone together, sparking conversations and smiles around the dinner table. Plus, it’s quick enough to fit into even the busiest of schedules. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the culinary adventure, and enjoy every delicious bite of this delightful dish!
Crying Tiger Beef is a flavorful dish featuring marinated flank steak, cooked to perfection and served with fresh cilantro and lime.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound flank steak
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
Begin by slicing the flank steak against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. This will help ensure tenderness.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Cook the beef in the hot skillet for about 3-4 minutes, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
Remove the beef from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
Serve the beef garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
Substitute the flank steak with sirloin or skirt steak for a different flavor profile.
