Bistek Tagalog
Bistek Tagalog is proof that a handful of pantry ingredients can carry a dish — beef marinated in soy sauce and citrus, pan-seared fast, and piled high with sweet caramelized onions. It’s a weeknight staple in most Filipino homes for a reason.
Watch It Made
More Photos
Instructions
- Combine the beef with soy sauce, calamansi juice, and black pepper in a bowl. Marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the fridge.
- Remove the beef from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the beef slices quickly, about 1-2 minutes per side. Set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the garlic until golden, then add the onion rings and cook until just softened, about 2 minutes. Remove half the onions and set aside for garnish.
- Pour in the reserved marinade and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pan and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Serve topped with the reserved onion rings and steamed rice.
Cook's Tip
Slice the beef as thin as you can, against the grain — it's the difference between a bistek that's tender in two minutes and one that turns rubbery.