Bistek Tagalog

Bistek Tagalog, also known as Filipino Beef Steak, is a savory and tangy dish made with tender beef marinated in soy sauce and calamansi juice, then cooked with onions and garlic for a rich, flavorful experience. This dish is an absolute Filipino classic, often served with steamed rice, perfect for a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bistek Tagalog is a perfect blend of tender, flavorful beef and the vibrant, zesty notes of calamansi juice. The marinade gives the beef an amazing umami flavor, while the onions provide sweetness and texture. It’s easy to make and can be customized to your taste, whether you like a bit of sweetness or extra tang. This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!

Ingredients

For Marinate:

• 750 grams beef tenderloin

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons calamansi juice

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Cooking:

• Lots of onions (chopped into rings)

• 3 cloves garlic

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon calamansi juice

• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

• 1/2 cup water

• Cooking oil for searing

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

Directions

1. Marinate the Beef: Slice the beef into thin pieces. Pound each slice with a meat tenderizer to ensure it cooks quickly and becomes tender. Once done, season the beef with soy sauce, calamansi juice, pepper, and garlic powder. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour.

2. Sear the Beef: After marinating, remove the beef from the marinade and set the marinade aside. Heat some cooking oil in a pan and sear the beef until it turns brown. At first, the beef will release water, so discard the excess liquid and add it back to the reserved marinade to help the beef brown faster. Once the beef is brown, set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, sauté the garlic and 1/4 of the onions until fragrant. Add the reserved marinade and let it simmer. Once it begins to bubble, pour in the water and season with soy sauce, sugar (optional), and pepper. Stir well.

4. Simmer the Beef: Add the seared beef into the pan and cover it. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. (Note: Beef tenderloin and sirloin cook quickly, but if using tougher cuts, you’ll need to cook it longer and tenderize the meat.)

5. Final Touches: After 3 minutes, add the additional calamansi juice and the remaining onion rings. Cover and cook for an additional minute. If you like your onions crispy, add some more onion rings before removing from heat.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Bistek Tagalog hot with a generous portion of steamed rice. Enjoy the flavorful, tender beef and crispy onions!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes around 30-45 minutes from start to finish, including marinating time.

Variations

• Beef Cut: If you don’t have tenderloin, you can use sirloin or round steak. Just be mindful that these cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

• Vegetarian Version: Try substituting the beef with firm tofu or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian twist.

• Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. If you prefer it less sweet, skip the sugar altogether.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a little water or broth to keep the beef tender and moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use another citrus juice besides calamansi?

Yes, if calamansi is unavailable, you can substitute it with fresh lemon or lime juice for a similar tangy flavor.

2. Can I marinate the beef overnight?

Yes, marinating the beef overnight will give it even more flavor. Just be sure to refrigerate it during that time.

3. Can I use a different cut of beef?

While tenderloin is ideal, you can use sirloin or round steak. Tougher cuts may require longer cooking times to become tender.

4. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Certainly! You can add bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra flavor and texture.

5. Is Bistek Tagalog spicy?

Bistek Tagalog isn’t typically spicy, but you can add a little chili pepper or more pepper to make it spicier if you prefer.

6. Can I use store-bought beef tenderizer?

Yes, you can use store-bought meat tenderizer to help soften the beef. Just follow the instructions on the package for best results.

7. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, Bistek Tagalog can be prepared ahead of time. The flavors will deepen after a few hours, so it’s a great make-ahead meal.

8. How do I make my onions crispy?

To make the onions crispy, add them at the end of cooking, or cook them separately in a little oil until they’re golden and crispy before adding them to the dish.

9. What should I serve with Bistek Tagalog?

This dish is best served with steamed white rice, but you can also serve it with garlic rice for extra flavor.

10. Can I make Bistek Tagalog without sugar?

Yes, sugar is optional in this recipe. If you prefer a more savory dish, feel free to skip it.

Conclusion

Bistek Tagalog is a simple yet flavorful Filipino classic that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The tender beef, tangy marinade, and sweet, aromatic onions create a dish that’s full of flavor and heart. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy!