These beef sticks with spicy tamarind are rich, savory, and full of bold Southeast Asian–inspired flavors. Tender beef is deeply marinated, quickly grilled until caramelized, and paired with a tangy, spicy tamarind dipping sauce that makes every bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines simple ingredients with big flavor. The marinade penetrates the beef for maximum tenderness, while the quick grilling keeps it juicy and slightly smoky. The spicy tamarind sauce adds brightness and heat, making this dish perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

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

600 g chuck steak, trimmed and cut into 1.5 cm pieces
Peanut oil, for grilling
1/3 cup coconut cream
Fresh coriander sprigs, for serving

For the marinade
1/2 teaspoon white peppercorns
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped coriander roots and stems
1 pinch sea salt
2 tablespoons finely grated palm sugar
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons oyster sauce

For the dipping sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons spring onions, thinly sliced
1 1/2 tablespoons coriander leaves, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fish sauce, or to taste
1/4 cup tamarind water (1 1/2 tablespoons tamarind purée mixed with 1 1/2 tablespoons water)
1 teaspoon grated palm sugar
2 teaspoons ground roasted rice
2 teaspoons chili flakes

Directions

Place the white peppercorns in a mortar and pound until roughly ground. Add the garlic, coriander roots and stems, and sea salt, then pound into a fine paste.

Transfer the paste to a bowl and stir in the palm sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce until well combined.

Add the beef pieces to the marinade and mix thoroughly to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight for best results.

Soak 12 wooden skewers in water for several hours to prevent burning.

In a separate bowl, combine all the dipping sauce ingredients. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.

Preheat a barbecue or grill to medium heat and lightly oil the cooking surface.

Thread the marinated beef onto the skewers, packing the pieces close together.

Grill the skewers, turning often and brushing with coconut cream, until caramelized and just cooked through, about 5 to 6 minutes.

Remove from heat and serve hot with the dipping sauce and fresh coriander sprigs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, plus marinating time.
Marinating time ranges from 3 hours to overnight.
Cooking time is approximately 6 minutes.
Total active time is around 30 minutes.

Variations

You can use sirloin or rump steak instead of chuck for a leaner texture. Reduce or increase the chili flakes to control heat. Adding a squeeze of lime juice to the dipping sauce gives extra freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover beef skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Keep the dipping sauce refrigerated separately and stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I cook these without a barbecue?

Yes, a grill pan or oven broiler works well.

What makes the beef tender?

The marinade and quick, high-heat cooking keep the beef juicy and tender.

Can I marinate the beef overnight?

Yes, overnight marinating gives the best flavor.

Is the dipping sauce very spicy?

It has a noticeable kick, but you can reduce the chili flakes.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes, metal skewers are a great alternative.

What is ground roasted rice?

It is toasted rice ground into a coarse powder that adds texture and flavor.

Can I freeze the marinated beef?

Yes, freeze it for up to 1 month and thaw before cooking.

What should I serve with this dish?

Steamed rice or a leafy salad pairs very well.

How do I avoid overcooking the beef?

Grill quickly and turn frequently, removing as soon as it’s cooked through.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, it scales easily for larger groups.

Conclusion

Beef sticks with spicy tamarind are a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that combines tender grilled beef with a vibrant dipping sauce. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, this recipe is perfect for adding bold flavor to any meal or gathering.

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