Bistek

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, calamansi juice (or lemon juice), minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Add the thinly sliced beef to the bowl, ensuring the pieces are fully immersed in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will allow the beef to absorb the flavors, making it tender and flavorful.

2. Prepare the Onions:

While the beef is marinating, prepare the onions by slicing them into rings. Set aside.

3. Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet or pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef, including the garlic and marinade, to the pan. Cook the beef for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to brown and become tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the beef cooks evenly.

4. Caramelize the Onions:

In a separate pan, heat cooking oil over medium heat. Add the onion rings and cook them for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized. The sweet flavor of the caramelized onions will contrast nicely with the savory beef.

5. Combine and Simmer:

Once the beef is cooked through, add the caramelized onions to the pan with the beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serve:

Once the beef is tender and fully coated with the rich sauce and caramelized onions, remove from heat. Serve your Bistek with steamed white rice, making sure to drizzle some of the savory sauce over the rice for extra flavor.

Why Bistek Works:

• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: The marinade is made up of pantry staples like soy sauce, garlic, and citrus, yet it infuses the beef with an incredible depth of flavor. The caramelized onions add sweetness and texture that complements the savory beef perfectly.
• Versatile Beef Cuts: While beef sirloin is the most common cut used for Bistek, this dish can also be made with other cuts like flank steak or round steak, depending on what you have available. The key is to slice the beef thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
• Family-Friendly: Filipino food often brings families together, and Bistek is no exception. Its savory, comforting flavors make it a hit with both adults and kids alike.

Tips for Making the Best Bistek:

• Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the beef, the more flavorful it will become. If you can, marinate it for a few hours or even overnight for the best results.
• Tenderize the Beef: To ensure the beef is extra tender, slice it thinly against the grain. This will help break down the fibers and make each bite more enjoyable.
• Adjust the Acidity: Calamansi gives Bistek its unique tangy flavor, but if you’re using lemon or lime as a substitute, you may need to adjust the amount of juice depending on your preference for acidity.
• Add a Little Heat: If you like a bit of spice, add a couple of sliced chili peppers to the pan when cooking the beef. It will add an extra layer of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Variations of Bistek:

• Bistek Tagalog with Potatoes: In some variations of Bistek, you can add thinly sliced potatoes to the dish. These potatoes soak up the flavorful sauce, creating a heartier meal.
• Vegetable Additions: If you’d like to add more vegetables to your Bistek, you can toss in some bell peppers or even green beans. These veggies complement the beef and add more texture to the dish.
• Bistek with Pineapple: For a touch of sweetness, some versions of Bistek include canned or fresh pineapple chunks. The pineapple adds a sweet contrast to the savory beef, balancing out the dish even further.

Why You’ll Love Bistek:

Bistek is a Filipino classic that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or special family meals. The savory beef, tangy marinade, and sweet caramelized onions create a perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Paired with fluffy white rice, this dish is a simple yet satisfying way to bring a taste of the Philippines into your kitchen.

Whether you’re new to Filipino cuisine or a longtime fan, Bistek will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for delicious, home-cooked meals. Enjoy this flavorful dish with family and friends—it’s the kind of food that brings people together.