Introduction

Bistek, a flavorful Filipino beef steak dish, brings together the hearty combination of marinated beef and a zesty onion sauce. This recipe showcases the simplicity and warmth of Filipino home cooking while presenting an exciting taste profile that can easily become a family favorite. Perfect for serving with rice, Bistek is both satisfying and delicious.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Beef sirloin – 1 pound, sliced into thin strips
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Calamansi juice or lemon juice – 1/4 cup
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Pepper – 1/2 teaspoon
Onions – 2 medium, sliced into rings
Cooking oil – 2 tablespoons
Water – 1/2 cup

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 20 minutes
Total Time – 50 minutes
Yield – 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Slice the beef against the grain into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Using a meat mallet, pound each slice to tenderize, making them more pliable for cooking.

Marinate the Beef

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper. Add the sliced beef and mix well to ensure all pieces are coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Cook the Onions

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Beef

In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated beef slices, cooking until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if needed.

Combine Ingredients

Once the beef is cooked, return the sautéed onions to the skillet. Mix to combine the beef and onions. If desired, add a little more soy sauce for extra flavor.

Serve

Serve the Bistek hot over rice or with sides of your choice, garnishing with sliced fresh lime or calamansi if preferred.

Notes

Meat Selection

Use flank steak, sirloin, or round steak for best results. Choose cuts that are tender and suitable for quick cooking.

Vegetable Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for additional flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, fried egg, or fresh salad to balance the flavors.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinade the beef in soy sauce, calamansi juice, and garlic for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor and tenderness.

Searing

Sear the beef in a hot skillet to develop a rich, brown crust that adds depth of flavor to the dish.

Caramelizing Onions

Cook the onions until golden brown to bring out their natural sweetness, which complements the savory flavors of the beef.

Deglazing

After cooking the meat, deglaze the pan with water or broth to scrape up the browned bits, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.

Simmering

Allow the cooked beef and onions to simmer together in the sauce to meld the flavors and for the beef to absorb the sauce.

Resting

Let the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.

FAQ

What cut of beef is best for Bistek?

Flank steak or sirloin is ideal for Bistek due to their balance of flavor and tenderness.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for beef; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s cooked through.

What can I serve with Bistek?

Bistek pairs well with steamed rice, fried eggs, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How long can I marinate the beef?

You can marinate the beef for up to 2 hours; longer marinating can make it overly salty.

Can I make Bistek ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Bistek ahead of time, and it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have developed further.

Conclusion

The Bistek recipe is a delightful representation of Filipino cuisine, blending tender beef and savory onions with a tangy soy sauce marinade. This dish not only highlights the rich flavors of the ingredients but also serves as a comforting meal that can be enjoyed by family and friends. With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, Bistek is a great choice for any dinner table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Fried Rice

Pair your Bistek with classic fried rice for a hearty and complementary side dish. The flavors of garlic and scallions in the rice will enhance the main course.

Garlic Butter Vegetables

Serve Bistek alongside garlic butter vegetables to add a fresh and flavorful crunch. Choose a medley of seasonal vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers.

Pancit Canton

For a traditional touch, enjoy your Bistek with Pancit Canton, a stir-fried noodle dish filled with vegetables and proteins. The textures and tastes will create a balanced meal.

Adobo Rice

Adobo rice, infused with the savory flavors of traditional Adobo, makes an excellent foundation for Bistek. The tanginess complements the saltiness of the beef.

Pickled Vegetables

Add some tangy pickled vegetables as a refreshing side dish to your Bistek meal. They offer a nice contrast in flavors and add a distinct taste to your plate.