Marinating Beef Steak the Filipino Way
Marinated beef steak, also known as “Bistek Tagalog,” is a popular Filipino dish that features tender beef slices infused with a delicious blend of flavors. The marinade, which typically includes soy sauce, calamansi juice, and onions, adds a savory and tangy taste to the meat. If you’re looking to recreate this classic Filipino dish at home, here’s a simple guide on how to marinate beef steak the Filipino way.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of beef steak (sirloin or flank steak works well)
- 1/2 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of calamansi juice (or lemon juice as a substitute)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons of cooking oil
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, calamansi juice, minced garlic, sliced onions, and ground black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are well combined.
- Place the beef steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, making sure that it is evenly coated. If using a plastic bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing it.
- Marinate the beef steak in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors of the marinade. For best results, marinate the beef for up to 3 hours to achieve maximum flavor.
- Once the beef has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will help the meat cook more evenly.
- Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated beef steak and cook it for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Transfer the cooked beef steak to a serving plate, and if desired, garnish it with additional sliced onions and a squeeze of calamansi or lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Once you’ve followed these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a delicious and flavorful Filipino-style beef steak that’s perfect for serving with steamed rice and vegetables. The marinade infuses the beef with a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and umami flavors, making it a truly satisfying dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of Filipino cuisine or simply looking to expand your culinary repertoire, marinating beef steak the Filipino way is a fantastic way to add a new and exciting dish to your cooking arsenal. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to savor the delectable flavors of Bistek Tagalog in the comfort of your own home.
Explore More Recipes and Ways to Use This Guide
Once you've mastered the basics of marinating beef steak with a Filipino twist, the culinary possibilities become incredibly exciting. Dive into recipes like Filipino-Style Beef Steak Sandwich for a quick and flavorful lunch, or try the sophisticated Bistek Tagalog Tacos with Achara for a fusion of traditional Filipino flavors in a popular Mexican format. For those who enjoy a hearty meal, the Filipino Beef Steak Stir Fry with Vegetables offers a delightful combination of succulent beef and fresh veggies. We especially recommend the Grilled Filipino Beef Steak with Mango Salsa for its vibrant flavors and appealing presentation, making it perfect for your next summer barbecue.