Filipino Beef Steak

 Filipino Beef Steak (Bistek Tagalog)

Filipino Beef Steak (Bistek Tagalog)

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1½ lbs (700g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 medium onions, sliced into rings
• 2–3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 cup water or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Steamed white rice, for serving

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef:

• In a bowl, combine soy sauce, calamansi juice, garlic, and black pepper.
• Add the beef slices to the marinade and mix well to coat.
• Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.

2. Cook the Onions:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the onion rings and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sear the Beef:

• In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
• Sear the marinated beef slices in batches over medium-high heat until browned, about 1–2 minutes per side. Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove and set aside.

4. Make the Sauce:

• Pour the marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
• Add water or beef broth and sugar (if using). Let it cook for 3–5 minutes, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release browned bits.
• Adjust seasoning with salt, if necessary.

5. Combine and Simmer:

• Return the beef slices to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the meat to soak up the sauce.
• Add the cooked onion rings back to the skillet and mix gently.

6. Serve:

• Serve hot over steamed white rice, with the sauce drizzled on top.

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Tips

• Tender Beef: Use a tender cut like sirloin or tenderloin, and slice thinly against the grain for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Calamansi Substitute: If calamansi is unavailable, lemon juice is a great alternative.
• Onion Variations: Use red onions for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Enjoy this savory and tangy Filipino classic! 🌟