Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe: a traditional Filipino meal which features thick beef slices. This particular meal is usually mistaken for a Filipino version of steak and also includes tender beef, citrusy sauce and soy sauce. Easy yet scrumptious, the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe is a favorite throughout special occasions and family meals. It could be combined with steamed rice, over which the sauce could be poured.
The Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe is unique in its marinade: soy sauce, calamansi (a local citrus fruit) and garlic. Tangy citrus from the calamansi cuts through the beef and also gives Filipino food preparation a signature taste. This marinade gives the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe its signature taste, as the beef absorbs the salty sour notes that make every bite mouthwatering. The beef is then cooked till tender (but not too pink), a comforting dish.
A very essential ingredient of Filipino Bistek Tagalog will be the sauteed onions which are included at the conclusion of cooking. The onions soften and caramelise, giving off their natural sweetness which goes nicely with tangy marinade and the beef. The onions lend the dish more flavor and give it more textured. This blend of flavors and textures makes Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe special in Filipino cuisine.
The Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe is also adaptable to different cuts of beef. Some use sirloin while others use ribeye round or flank steak. Whatever cut you pick, the secret is marinating the beef long enough so it absorbs all the flavors coming from the marinade, making tender meat. The Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe may be adapted to suit any taste, and is frequently served in customized versions for gatherings.
When making the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe, give the beef enough time to marinate so the flavors can combine. The more time the beef soaks in the marinade, the more powerful the flavors will likely be – every bite will carry the soy sauce spicing, calamansi tang and caramelized onions. It goes best hot with the sauce spooned over steamed rice and is a good meal for a Filipino family dinner.
This Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe is a comfort food for generations. It is a dish which unites people at home or during celebrations. Tender beef, a marinade and onions sauteed help to make this a dish for adults and children alike. It’s one of those meals that could be made fast and that wow guests in a dinner party or a family reunion.
The Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe also reflects Filipino hospitality and culinary ingenuity. Filipino food is known for its bold flavors and this Bistek Tagalog is not an different. It’s a dish with simple ingredients which leads to an intricate profile of flavours that is Filipino. From calamansi to soybean sauce, everything makes a hearty meal.
Generally Filipino Bistek Tagalog is a Filipino dish. It’s simple to prepare yet loaded with flavor, along with a favorite of professional chefs and home cooks alike. Trying to find a quick weeknight dinner concept or a dish to wow guests, the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe is a winner. Its savory taste and tender beef slices are testimony to the flavors of Filipino cuisine.
Ingredients For the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe
Beef
Lemons
Soy Sauce
Onion
Garlic
Pepper
Canola Oil
Water
Salt
Onion
Cooking Instructions For the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe
Put the meat, lemon juice, soy sauce, pepper, garlic, and chopped onions in a bowl. For around half an hour, massage the marinade into the meat.
After removing the meat, onions, and garlic from the marinade, squeeze off any extra liquid and set it aside.
Heat the oil in a pan over high heat. Add the beef and heat until lightly browned, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. During frying, spoon out and set aside any released meat juices. Take out the flesh.
Add the garlic and onions to the pan and cook, turning frequently, until they are tender. Put the browned beef back in the pan.
Add the meat juices and marinade that you set aside. Bring to a boil after adding water.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the meat is fork-tender and the liquid has reduced, about 40 to 50 minutes. Add salt to taste.
Switch off the heat. If desired, garnish with onion rings and cover to let the onions cook a little in the steam. Warm up and serve.
Helpful Suggestions For the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe
The Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe is a delicious and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. To get the most tender and flavorful result, marinate the beef slices for at least an hour, or even longer if you have the time. This allows the flavors of the soy sauce, calamansi (or lemon), garlic, and pepper to fully infuse the meat. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can add a pinch of sugar to balance out the acidity from the calamansi. When cooking the beef, ensure the pan is hot before adding the meat so that it sears properly, creating a beautiful caramelized crust.
To enhance the taste of the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe, you can also add some sautéed onions for a bit of sweetness and extra texture. Serve with a generous amount of fried onions on top for that classic Bistek Tagalog look and flavor. For a variation, you could also add a dash of oyster sauce to the sauce mixture for more depth. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, making it a filling and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Storage Instructions For the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe
To store the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe, allow the dish to cool down completely after cooking. Once cooled, place the leftover Bistek Tagalog in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as the dish sits, making it even more delicious the next day. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe.
Transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store it in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or microwave. If you find the sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up. For the best results, make sure to avoid reheating multiple times, as this can affect the texture of the meat. Enjoy your Bistek Tagalog as a quick and tasty meal whenever you need it.
FAQ For the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe
Question: Can I use other types of meat for the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe?
A: While the traditional Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe uses beef, you can experiment with other meats such as chicken or pork. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and flavor may vary depending on the meat you choose.
Question: How long should I marinate the meat for the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe?
A: For the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe, marinate the beef for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, marinate it for 3 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.
Question: Can I make the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe ahead of time. In fact, the dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Question: Can I add other vegetables to the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe?
A: While the classic Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe focuses on beef and onions, you can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for additional flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overwhelm the dish with too many extra ingredients.
Question: How do I make the Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe spicier?
A: To make the Filipino Bistek Tagalog recipe spicier, you can add chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade or while cooking the dish. Adjust the heat to your liking.

Easy Filipino Bistek Tagalog Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lb Beef top round or sirloin, sliced thinly
- 2 Lemons juiced (about ¼ cup juice)
- ¼ cup Soy Sauce
- 1 Onion peeled and sliced thinly
- 1 head Garlic peeled and minced
- ¼ tsp Pepper
- 3 tbsp Canola Oil
- 1 cup Water
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 Onion peeled and sliced into rings
Instructions
- Put the meat, lemon juice, soy sauce, pepper, garlic, and chopped onions in a bowl. For around half an hour, massage the marinade into the meat.
- After removing the meat, onions, and garlic from the marinade, squeeze off any extra liquid and set it aside.
- Heat the oil in a pan over high heat. Add the beef and heat until lightly browned, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. During frying, spoon out and set aside any released meat juices. Take out the flesh.
- Add the garlic and onions to the pan and cook, turning frequently, until they are tender. Put the browned beef back in the pan.
- Add the meat juices and marinade that you set aside. Bring to a boil after adding water.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the meat is fork-tender and the liquid has reduced, about 40 to 50 minutes. Add salt to taste.
- Switch off the heat. If desired, garnish with onion rings and cover to let the onions cook a little in the steam. Warm up and serve.
1 comment
Marinade mad this dish so tender, recipe calls for 1 hour of cook time but is a lot shorter for me because i like it rare. You will need to adjust that to your own taste.