Bistek

Filipino bistek is succulent beef braised in a marinade of soy sauce and lemon with tender onion rings. Simple to prepare, yet incredibly aromatic—a dish that captivates from the very first bite.

Ingredients

• 454 g Beef
• 5 tbsp Soy sauce
• 1 pcs Lemon
• 3 clove Garlic
• 3 pcs Onion
• 4 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 cup Water
• 1 pinch Salt
• 1 to taste Black ground pepper

Instructions

1. Cut the beef into portioned pieces. Mix soy sauce with lemon juice (or calamansi) and a generous pinch of black ground pepper. Pour the marinade over the meat and refrigerate for at least 1 hour—preferably overnight—so the beef becomes significantly more tender and flavorful.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté half of the sliced onion rings until soft, then transfer to a plate and set aside—it will be needed for serving.
3. Remove the meat from the marinade, straining the liquid into a separate container—you will need it later. Sauté the beef in the same skillet for 1 minute on each side until browned. Transfer to a plate.
4. If necessary, add a little oil to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic and remaining raw onion, stirring, until the onion is soft.
5. Pour in the reserved marinade and a cup of water, bring to a boil.
6. Return the beef to the skillet, cover with a lid, and braise over low heat until the meat is completely tender. If the liquid evaporates before the meat is ready, add water as needed.
7. Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper if necessary. Divide among plates and top with the pre-sautéed onion. Serve hot—ideally with boiled rice.