Filipino Beef Steak or Bistek

Discover the bold and savory flavors of Filipino Beef Steak, locally known as Bistek—a beloved dish that perfectly balances tangy, salty, and slightly sweet elements. Made with thinly sliced beef sirloin marinated in a delectable blend of soy sauce, calamansi or lemon juice, and minced garlic, this dish is gently simmered to tenderness and topped with caramelized onion rings for a burst of sweetness. Every bite is infused with rich umami flavors, elevated by a touch of sugar and black pepper in the luscious sauce. This easy-to-make classic is best enjoyed with a side of steaming white rice to soak up all the delicious sauce, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that brings a taste of the Philippines to your table.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin or round steak
• 0.33 cup soy sauce
• 0.25 cup calamansi or lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pieces onions, sliced into rings
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 0.5 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon salt

Directions

Step 1

Slice the beef into thin cuts, about 1/4 inch thick. Pound the slices lightly with a meat tenderizer to soften.

Step 2

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, calamansi or lemon juice, and minced garlic. Add the beef slices, mix well, and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator for better flavor.

Step 3

Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sear the beef slices in small batches until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 4

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of cooking oil. Sauté the onion rings until they become soft and caramelized, about 5 minutes. Set half of the onions aside for garnish.

Step 5

Pour the marinade into the pan and bring it to a simmer. Add the water, sugar, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.

Step 6

Return the seared beef to the pan and mix it with the sauce. Cover and cook over low to medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

Step 7

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Top with the reserved onion rings before serving.

Step 8

Serve hot with steamed white rice.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	980.9 grams (980.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1364

Total Fat 74.00g	95%
Saturated Fat 22.10g	111%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 340mg	113%
Sodium 3895mg	169%
Total Carbohydrate 37.80g	14%
Dietary Fiber 5.00g	18%
Total Sugars 16.30g
Protein 133.60g	267%

Vitamin D 32IU	159%
Calcium 171mg	13%
Iron 14mg	77%
Potassium 2209mg	47%

*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: 49.3%

Protein: 39.5%

Carbs: 11.2%