Bistek Tagalog

Background of Bistek Tagalog

Bistek Tagalog is a popular Filipino dish that combines the savory and tangy flavors of soy sauce and calamansi juice with the richness of beef. It is a beloved comfort food, often enjoyed with steaming white rice. This dish is a Filipino take on the western beef steak, with a twist of local ingredients and flavors. Traditionally, the recipe uses ./calamansi for its distinct citrus tang, but ./lemon can be a substitute when not available. The marinated beef, typically ./beef%20top%20sirloin or ./beef%20tenderloin, is cooked to tenderness and served with caramelized ./onion for added sweetness.

Ingredients

• Beef Top Sirloin, sliced thinly - 500g
• Soy Sauce - 1/2 cup
• Calamansi or Lemon - 1/4 cup, juiced
• Onions, sliced into rings - 2 large
• Garlic, minced - 3 cloves
• Water - 1/4 cup
• Cooking Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Pepper to taste
• Optional: Potato, sliced and fried until golden - 1 medium

Preparation

Marinating the Beef

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce and calamansi juice.
2. Add the sliced beef to the bowl. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade.
3. Sprinkle some minced garlic and mix gently.
4. Cover the bowl and let the beef marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. The longer, the better for more flavor absorption.

Preparing the Onions

1. While waiting, heat a pan over medium heat and add cooking oil.
2. Sauté the onion rings until they become soft and translucent.
3. Remove the onions from the pan and set aside.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Beef

1. Using the same pan with leftover oil, add the marinated beef without the marinade initially, and fry each side until browned. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
2. Once all the beef slices are browned, pour in the remaining marinade and add water.
3. Lower the heat and simmer until the beef is tender. This may take around 20-30 minutes.
4. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the liquid reduce further. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Adding Final Touches

1. Return the sautéed onions to the pan and mix with the beef for a minute.
2. If using, arrange the fried potato slices around the serving platter.

How to Enjoy Bistek Tagalog

Bistek Tagalog is best served warm over a bed of steamed white rice. The tangy and savory beef pairs well with the fluffy rice, complementing its flavors perfectly. Enjoy your meal with a side of a simple green salad or ./tomato slices to add freshness to your palate. For the best experience, gather your family or friends, as food is always better when shared. Don’t forget to pair it with a refreshing drink, like iced tea or juice, to complete the dining experience.