Authentic Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500 grams of beef sirloin, cut into thin slices
  • 1/4 cup of soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup of calamansi juice
  • 1 large onion, sliced into rings
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
  • 1 cup of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Marinate the beef sirloin in soy sauce, calamansi juice, and ground black pepper for at least 1 hour. Set aside.
  2. Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Sauté the minced garlic until it turns golden brown.
  4. Add the marinated beef (reserve the marinade) to the pan and sauté until all sides are browned.
  5. Pour the remaining marinade and water into the pan. Bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer until the beef is tender.
  7. Add the onion rings to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  8. Turn off the heat. Transfer the Bistek Tagalog to a serving plate.
  9. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for slicing the beef and chopping ingredients.
  • Knife - Essential for cutting and slicing the beef, onion, and garlic.
  • Mixing bowl - Used for marinating the beef with the soy sauce, calamansi juice, and pepper.
  • Measuring cup - Needed to accurately measure the soy sauce, calamansi juice, and water.
  • Pan - Used for sautéing the garlic and cooking the beef.
  • Spatula - Helps in stirring and flipping the beef while cooking.
  • Plate - Used for transferring and serving the cooked Bistek Tagalog.
  • Serving spoon - Used to serve the Bistek Tagalog onto individual plates.

Recipe variations

  • Use chicken or pork instead of beef sirloin
  • Add vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots to the dish
  • Experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or orange
  • Include additional seasonings like Worcestershire sauce or oyster sauce
  • Try marinating the meat overnight for more intense flavors
  • For a healthier option, use lean cuts of meat or substitute with tofu
  • Add a touch of sweetness by incorporating brown sugar or honey into the marinade
  • Include chili peppers or hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • For a twist, grill the meat instead of pan-frying it

Recipe overview

Bistek Tagalog is a popular Filipino dish that takes inspiration from the Spanish bistec and combines it with local flavors. Perfectly tender beef slices marinated in a tangy blend of soy sauce and calamansi juice, cooked with fragrant garlic, topped with caramelized onion rings - this is what you can expect from this delicious recipe. Its savory and sour notes make it a mouthwatering main course that is beloved by many. This recipe is straightforward, requiring only a handful of ingredients and simple steps. You can enjoy Bistek Tagalog as is or pair it with hot steamed rice for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy the taste of Filipino cuisine right in your home with this Bistek Tagalog recipe.

Common questions

  1. Can I use other cuts of beef instead of sirloin? Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as flank steak or tenderloin, but sirloin is commonly used in traditional Bistek Tagalog.
  2. How long should I marinate the beef? It is recommended to marinate the beef for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. However, you can marinate it for longer if desired.
  3. Can I substitute calamansi juice? If calamansi juice is not available, you can use a combination of lemon and lime juice as a substitute.
  4. What can I serve with Bistek Tagalog? Bistek Tagalog is commonly served with steamed rice. You can also pair it with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.
  5. Can I make Bistek Tagalog in advance? Yes, you can make Bistek Tagalog in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan or microwave before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - A sturdy surface for slicing and preparing the beef and onion.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for slicing the beef sirloin and chopping the garlic.
  • Pan - A frying pan or skillet for sautéing the beef and onion.
  • Spatula - A utensil for flipping and stirring the beef while cooking.
  • Measuring cup - A cup for accurately measuring the soy sauce, calamansi juice, and water.

Origin stories

Bistek Tagalog, a popular dish in the Philippines, is a testament to the cultural influences that have shaped the country's cuisine. The name itself is a fusion of English and Spanish - 'Bistek' is derived from the English word 'beefsteak,' while 'Tagalog' is an ethnic group indigenous to the Philippines. The use of soy sauce and calamansi juice, a local citrus, to marinate the beef reflects the blend of flavors typical in Filipino cooking. Interestingly, while the name "beefsteak" implies a thick cut of meat, Bistek Tagalog is traditionally made with thin slices of beef, a practical adaptation in a country where resources can be scarce. Today, it remains a beloved comfort food in Filipino households, often enjoyed with a serving of steamed rice. The tangy, savory, and flavorful Bistek Tagalog is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Filipino people, who turn simple ingredients into extraordinary meals.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.