Crying Tiger Beef Recipe -Thai Special

Craving a dish that brings smoky char, bold flavors, and vibrant heat? Crying Tiger Beef delivers just that. This Thai special features tender sirloin or ribeye steak marinated in soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper, then grilled until beautifully seared. Paired with a zesty dipping sauce made from lime juice, chili flakes, green onions, cilantro, and optionally toasted rice powder for texture, every bite balances umami, spice, and freshness. Perfect for weekend grilling or when you want something hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor.

  • Prep Time10 min
  • Cook Time20 min
  • Total Time30 min

For the Beef:

  • 400g beef steak (ribeye or sirloin)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tsp oyster sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Dipping Sauce:

  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp toasted rice powder (optional, for texture)
  • 1 tbsp chopped green onions
  • 1 tbsp chopped cilantro

Marinate the Beef:

1

In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and black pepper.

2

Coat the beef with the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Beef:

3

Heat a grill or pan over high heat.

4

Brush with oil and grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side (medium-rare) or longer for desired doneness.

5

Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

6

In a small bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, chili flakes, toasted rice powder, green onions, and cilantro.

Serve:

7

Arrange the sliced beef on a plate and serve with the dipping sauce.

8

Enjoy with sticky rice or fresh vegetables.

Recipe Notes:

  • Rest Before Slicing: Let the beef rest a few minutes after grilling so juices redistribute—this keeps the Crying Tiger Beef tender and juicy.

  • Adjust Spice Level: Modify the chili flakes in the dipping sauce to suit your heat preference. Less for mild, more for spicy.

  • Alternative Cuts: Ribeye or sirloin give great flavor; if using leaner cuts, don’t overcook—grill to medium-rare for best texture.

  • Toasted Rice Powder Option: Toasted rice powder adds crunch and a nutty note to the dipping sauce, but you can skip it if unavailable.