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Harissa-Marinated Top Sirloin Tips

These harissa-marinated sirloin tips offer a vibrant, spicy twist on a classic steak dish. By using lean top sirloin and a punchy North African chilli paste, this recipe creates a succulent main course that is bursting with aromatic flavour. The combination of garlic, fresh thyme, and soy sauce balances the heat of the harissa, while a short marinating time ensures the meat remains tender and deeply seasoned before hitting the frying pan.

As a diabetes-friendly option, this protein-rich dish focus on high-quality lean beef and heart-healthy olive oil. It is an excellent choice for a quick midweek dinner or a casual weekend gathering when you want something satisfying yet nutritious. Serve these charred beef triangles alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a complete, well-balanced meal.

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Ingredients for Harissa-Marinated Top Sirloin Tips

  • 450g top sirloin steak (about 1 1/2 inches thick), fat trimmed

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus additional for brushing

  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed

  • 2 tablespoons (packed) golden brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce

  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

  • 2 teaspoons plus 1 tablespoon harissa sauce*

How to make Harissa-Marinated Top Sirloin Tips

Cut steak lengthwise in half, forming two 2- to 3-inch-wide strips. Cut each strip into 2- to 3-inch triangles. Combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, garlic, sugar, soy sauce, thyme, and 2 teaspoons harissa in large bowl; whisk to blend. Add beef; toss to coat evenly. Marinate 30 minutes at room temperature or cover and chill at least 2 hours and up to 1 day, tossing occasionally.

Drain beef. Heat 2 heavy large skillets over high heat. Brush skillets generously with olive oil. Divide beef tips between skillets. Cook until well browned on all sides, turning with tongs, 6 to 7 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer beef tips to platter.

Whisk remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon harissa, and 2 tablespoons water in small bowl to blend well. Season sauce to taste with salt. Drizzle sauce over beef tips and serve.

  • A spicy North African red chilli sauce; available in cans and jars at some specialty foods stores and at Middle Eastern markets.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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