Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Thai street food paradise with this mouthwatering Sweet and Spicy Thai Beef recipe that promises to deliver an explosion of flavors in just 35 minutes! Imagine tender, perfectly caramelized beef slices that combine the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes - this dish is about to become your new obsession. Whether you're a culinary adventurer or a home cook looking to impress, this recipe will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand with every single bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon chili paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, chili paste, and minced garlic. Whisk together until the brown sugar completely dissolves, creating a marinade.
- Place the thinly sliced beef sirloin into the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the meat marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until the oil is shimmering and very hot.
- Using tongs, carefully transfer the marinated beef slices into the hot skillet, spreading them in a single layer to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat develops a rich brown caramelization and is cooked to medium-rare or your desired doneness.
- Remove the beef from the heat and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Transfer the cooked beef to a serving platter and garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve immediately with steamed jasmine rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Slice the beef as thinly as possible - this ensures quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption. Pro tip: Partially freeze the meat for 15-20 minutes to make slicing easier.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking. A single layer allows the beef to sear and caramelize instead of steaming, which creates those delicious crispy edges.
- Use high heat and work quickly - the key to authentic stir-fry technique is fast, high-temperature cooking that locks in flavor and keeps the meat tender.
- Let the meat rest after cooking to redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
