๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ญ Philippines ยท Food

Beef Bistek Tagalog

โฑ 60 min
A great way to spend your free time
๐Ÿ”ฅ 450 kcal
Hearty helping
๐Ÿฝ 4 servings
Great for the family

By eatmundo ยท August 4, 2026

Beef Bistek Tagalog๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ญ PH

A savory and tangy Filipino beef stir-fry featuring tender slices marinated in citrus and soy. It balances deep umami with the bright zest of calamansi.

Ingredients

How to Make It

  • 1

    Slice 1kg of beef brisket against the grain into thin 5mm strips to ensure tenderness.

  • 2

    In a bowl, combine the beef with 100ml soy sauce, 4 tbsp calamansi juice, and 1 tbsp peppercorns; marinate for 30 minutes.

  • 3

    Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pan over high heat until shimmering.

  • 4

    Sear the beef in batches, removing it once browned to avoid steaming the meat; set aside.

  • 5

    In the same pan, sautรฉ 2 sliced onions until translucent but still slightly crunchy.

  • 6

    Pour the remaining marinade and 500ml water into the pan, bringing to a boil.

  • 7

    Add 3 bay leaves and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.

  • 8

    Return the beef to the pan, stirring for 1 minute to coat thoroughly before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lemon instead of calamansi?+

Yes, use a 1:1 mix of lemon and lime juice to replicate the unique tartness of calamansi.

How do I make the beef extra tender?+

Ensure you slice against the grain and use a secondary simmer if the cut is tougher.

What should the sauce look like?+

It should be glossy and dark, coating the back of a spoon lightly.

Can I skip the marination?+

No, marinating is essential for the meat to absorb the salt and acidity.

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