Bistek, also known as Filipino Beef Steak, is a classic dish in Filipino cuisine that showcases the Philippines’ rich flavors and culinary traditions. This delectable dish, commonly called Bistek Tagalog, is a beloved favorite among locals and foreigners.
Bjorn’s Bistek, like any traditional Filipino beef steak recipes, starts with thinly sliced beef, traditionally using cuts like sirloin or flank steak, marinated in soy sauce, calamansi or lemon juice, and onions. This marinade infuses the meat with a delightful blend of savory and tangy flavors, giving Bistek its distinct taste. The beef is then pan-fried to perfection, creating a caramelized crust on the outside while retaining its tender juiciness inside.
Once the beef is cooked, it is simmered in the flavorful marinade until the meat becomes tender and absorbs the essence of the sauce. The resulting dish is a harmonious marriage of succulent beef and the tangy, umami-laden marinade. The caramelized onions, often added as a garnish, provide a sweetness and texture that complements the savory flavors of the Bistek.
Bistek is commonly served with steamed rice, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a satisfying and comforting meal. Tender beef, tangy marinade, and caramelized onions make Bistek a true Filipino culinary gem.
Whether enjoyed at home, in local eateries, or at festive gatherings, Bistek remains a staple in Filipino cuisine, symbolizing the country’s love for hearty and flavorful dishes. Its popularity has also spread beyond the Philippines, with many worldwide appreciating this Filipino Beef Steak’s unique taste and character.
So, if you ever have the opportunity to savor this delightful dish, don’t miss the chance to experience Bjorn’s mouthwatering flavors and cultural heritage that Bistek brings to the table.
Ingredients: 3-4 servings
1 lb. thinly sliced beef tenderloin
1 whole white onion
2 cloves garlic
Salt and Pepper
2/3 cup of soy sauce
3/4 cup of water
4 Pcs Calamansi
Cooking Instructions:
- Clean and cut beef tenderloin in thin slices, process other ingredients accordingly. On a deep sauce pan, combine Calamansi juice, soy sauce, garlic, salt and pepper together to create the marinade.
- Pour the marinade into the sliced beef strips. Combine all ingredients to thoroughly incorporate with the beef strips. Cover the sauce pan with its lid or with a plastic wrap. Leave it in the fridge for at least 2 hours to marinate.
- Remove marinated beef strips from the marinade while saving the sauce for later use. Heat up about 2-3 tbsp. of cooking oil on a frying pan, sear beef strips until slightly browned on each side.
- Sautee the seared beef strips with the minced garlic, followed by the sliced onions. Add the saved marinate sauce and stir to combine all ingredients. Apply extra salt and pepper if desired, add water, mix to combine ingredients.
- Close the pan with its lid and allow it to boil and simmer for at least 20-35 minutes, while stirring occasionally. Add more time if needed. Beef steak of Bistek should be tender and sauce thicker when it’s ready for serving.
- Top this delicious Bistek with sliced round onions prior to serving with steamed rice. Enjoy your dinner!
Tip: Vinegar can be as delicious for an alternative if Calamansi juice is not available.
