Beef Tapa

Savor the rich and savory flavors of Beef Tapa, a classic Filipino breakfast dish that brings together tender slices of marinated beef sirloin and bold seasonings. This recipe highlights a delightful balance of soy sauce, tangy calamansi (or lemon juice), and sweet undertones of sugar, infused with the aromatic scent of garlic and black pepper. The beef is marinated for hours to ensure deep, flavorful penetration before being seared to perfection for a caramelized finish. Paired traditionally with garlic rice and fried eggs, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for breakfast or any time of day, this quick-to-cook recipe (ready in just under 30 minutes, excluding marinating time) is a must-try for those looking to explore the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 120 ml soy sauce
• 60 ml calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 50 grams sugar
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, ground
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 120 ml water

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, calamansi juice, sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix until the sugar and salt are dissolved.

Step 2

Add the sliced beef sirloin to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the beef marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for best flavor.

Step 3

Once marinated, remove the beef from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.

Step 4

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 5

Add the marinated beef slices to the skillet in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the beef in batches.

Step 6

Pour about half of the marinade and water mixture over the beef and allow it to cook for 3-4 minutes on one side or until the sauce reduces.

Step 7

Flip the beef slices and cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring the beef is browned and cooked through.

Step 8

Remove the beef from the skillet and repeat with remaining batches, if necessary.

Step 9

Serve the beef tapa hot with garlic rice and a side of fried eggs.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	915.9 grams (915.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1796

Total Fat 101.80g	131%
Saturated Fat 33.80g	169%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.00g
Cholesterol 350mg	117%
Sodium 7342mg	319%
Total Carbohydrate 69.90g	25%
Dietary Fiber 2.00g	7%
Total Sugars 52.30g
Protein 143.50g	287%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 149mg	11%
Iron 16mg	87%
Potassium 2238mg	48%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 51.8%

Protein: 32.4%

Carbs: 15.8%