How do I make my beef extra tender?

Slice against the grain and don’t skip the marinade. You can also pound the beef lightly with a mallet to break up the fibers, especially if you’re using a tougher cut.

Can I use calamansi instead of lemon?

Absolutely! Calamansi is the traditional choice for true Filipino flavor. If you can’t find it, lemon or even lime will still be delicious.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?

Coconut aminos or tamari work for a gluten-free version. The flavor will be slightly different, but still tasty!

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! Bistek Tagalog tastes even better after the flavors have mingled overnight. Store in the fridge and reheat gently when ready to serve.

Beef Steak Filipino

Name: Beef Steak Filipino
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 1 pound beef (sirloin, flank, or similar), sliced thinly against the grain; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup lemon juice (or calamansi juice); 1 medium yellow onion, sliced into rings; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Description

Juicy, tangy, and totally weeknight-friendly, this Filipino beef steak (Bistek Tagalog) is packed with citrusy soy flavor, caramelized onions, and ultra-tender beef. Perfect over rice and a guaranteed family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound beef (sirloin, flank, or similar), sliced thinly against the grain
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup lemon juice (or calamansi juice)
1 medium yellow onion, sliced into rings
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons cooking oil

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper. Add sliced beef and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion rings and cook until soft and lightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.
Increase heat to high. Remove beef from marinade (reserve marinade). Sear beef slices in batches until browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Set aside.
Pour reserved marinade into the skillet. Simmer on low until thickened.
Return beef to the pan, toss to coat in sauce, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through and tender. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Top with sautéed onions and serve hot over rice.

Notes

Slice beef against the grain for tenderness. Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Add a pinch of sugar for sweetness or swap lemon with calamansi juice for authenticity.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Filipino

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 85mg