Name: Homemade Spicy Beef with Cold Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 2 red chili peppers, sliced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon chili oil; Salt to taste

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Homemade Spicy Beef with Cold Sauce is a vibrant and refreshing dish that perfectly balances heat, tang, and cool, crisp textures. Featuring tender beef slices drizzled with a zingy sauce and complemented by fresh cucumber and herbs, this Asian-inspired recipe is ideal for warm weather dining or as a light, bold-flavored meal any time of the year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The juicy beef is enhanced by a cold, spicy-tangy dressing, which penetrates each bite with bold flavor. The combination of cucumber and cilantro adds a refreshing crunch and herbaceous note that keeps the dish balanced and lively. With just 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for quick lunches or as an appetizer to impress guests.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
2 red chili peppers, sliced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, minced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon chili oil
Salt to taste

Directions

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, sugar, and chili oil. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well blended to make the cold sauce.
Heat a skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the beef slices and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until just cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and allow it to cool slightly.
Arrange the cucumber slices in a circular pattern on a large serving plate.
Place the cooled beef in the center of the plate.
Pour the prepared cold sauce over the beef.
Garnish with sliced red chili peppers and chopped fresh cilantro. Add a small pinch of salt if needed.
Serve immediately for a fresh and flavorful dish.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Variations

Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh, lightly seared for a protein-rich vegetarian version.
Noodle Base: Serve over chilled rice noodles or vermicelli for a more filling meal.
Extra Crunch: Add thinly sliced radish or shredded carrots for additional texture.
Peanut Twist: Add a drizzle of peanut sauce or crushed roasted peanuts for extra flavor depth.
Different Proteins: This recipe also works well with chicken or shrimp in place of beef.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best served fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep the sauce and beef separate from the cucumber if storing. Reheat the beef gently if desired, though the dish is intended to be served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I serve this dish completely cold?

Yes, this dish is meant to be served slightly chilled or at room temperature, which enhances the contrast between the spicy sauce and refreshing vegetables.

What type of beef is best?

Flank steak and sirloin are ideal due to their tenderness and ability to cook quickly when sliced thinly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and slice the vegetables ahead, but cook and assemble the beef just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a noticeable kick from the chili oil and fresh chilies, but you can reduce the spice level by using less chili oil or omitting the red chili slices.

What’s the purpose of the sugar in the sauce?

The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar and the heat from the chili oil, creating a more complex and rounded flavor.

Can I use ground beef instead?

Thin slices are recommended for texture, but if using ground beef, keep it well-drained and avoid overcooking.

What can I use instead of cilantro?

Fresh parsley or Thai basil are good substitutes if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

Is chili oil necessary?

Chili oil gives the dish its signature heat and aroma, but you can substitute with a milder infused oil if needed.

How do I slice the beef thinly?

For best results, freeze the beef for 20–30 minutes before slicing, which firms it up for cleaner, thinner cuts.

What side dishes go well with this?

Steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or cold sesame noodles pair well with this spicy beef salad.

Conclusion

Homemade Spicy Beef with Cold Sauce is a quick, zesty, and refreshing dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. The combination of tender beef, a tangy-spicy sauce, and crisp vegetables creates a satisfying experience that’s light yet exciting. Ideal as a main or side, this dish is sure to add a punch of flavor to your summer meals or any time you crave something vibrant and spicy.

Homemade Spicy Beef with Cold Sauce

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A refreshing and spicy dish featuring tender beef slices served with a tangy cold sauce, garnished with crisp cucumber and vibrant herbs for a balanced and flavorful experience.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Sautéing, Assembling
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sugar, and chili oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well combined.
Cook the beef slices in a hot pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until just cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside to cool slightly.
Arrange the cucumber slices in a circular pattern around the edge of a large plate.
Place the cooked beef in the center of the plate and pour the cold sauce over the top of the beef.
Garnish with sliced red chili peppers and fresh cilantro. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
Serve immediately for a fresh, spicy, and vibrant dish.