Bistek Tagalog Recipe (Classic Filipino Beef Steak)

Bistek Tagalog is a traditional Filipino dish made with thinly sliced beef marinated in soy sauce and calamansi, then simmered until tender and topped with caramelized onion rings. It is a simple yet flavorful comfort food best served with hot steamed rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 kilo beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large onions, sliced into rings
• 3 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 cup water
• Salt to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, calamansi juice, and black pepper.
2. Add the sliced beef and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
3. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Lightly sauté onion rings until slightly soft but still firm. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
6. Add the marinated beef (reserve marinade) and cook until lightly browned.
7. Pour in the remaining marinade and water. Bring to a boil.
8. Lower heat, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes or until beef is tender.
9. Add the sautéed onion rings back into the pan and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
10. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

Cooking Tips:

• Slice beef thinly against the grain for extra tenderness.
• Do not overcook the onions to keep slight crunch.
• Add a small amount of sugar if you prefer a slightly sweet version.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bistek Tagalog is savory, tangy, and comforting. The combination of soy sauce and calamansi gives it a unique Filipino flavor that pairs perfectly with rice.

Serving Suggestion: Best enjoyed with steamed white rice and a side of sliced tomatoes.