Bistek Tagalog (Filipino Citrus-Soy Seared Beef Steak with Caramelized Onion Rings) – Authentic Philippines Recipe
Tender beef strips marinated in tangy calamansi and soy, crowned with a halo of sweet caramelized onion rings.
- Country of Origin
- 🇵🇭 Philippines (Southeast Asia, Asia)
- Dietary Profile
- omnivore
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 20 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Thinly sliced beef sirloin, Rings of sweet white and red onion, Steamed garlic rice (sinangag), Calamansi or lemon juice, Dark soy sauce
Ingredients for Bistek Tagalog (Filipino Citrus-Soy Seared Beef Steak with Caramelized Onion Rings) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) thinly sliced beef sirloin, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups rings of sweet white and red onion, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup steamed garlic rice (sinangag)
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with calamansi or lemon juice
- 1.5 tbsp traditional Philippines seasoning (dark soy sauce, 6 cloves garlic, cracked black pepper)
- 2.5 tbsp traditional cooking oil, sea salt, cracked black pepper, and fresh citrus or herbs
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat oil in a wide heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté onion, garlic, and calamansi or lemon juice for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add thinly sliced beef sirloin and rings of sweet white and red onion along with dark soy sauce, 6 cloves garlic, cracked black pepper, searing for 8–10 minutes while tossing occasionally.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or citrus so the caramelized fond coats every bite.
- Garnish with steamed garlic rice (sinangag) and serve straight from the skillet.