Marinated beef slices are used to make Beef Tapa, a traditional Filipino meal that is usually served with garlic rice and a sunny-side-up egg called “Tapsilog.” This flavorful dish is made with just a few simple ingredientsβsoy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and garlicβand is loaded with flavor. Beef tapa is a tasty and filling meal that’s ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. ππ
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or cane vinegar)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef:
- Thinly slice the beef against the grain into bite-sized pieces. If the beef is slightly frozen, it will be easier to slice thinly.
- Make the Marinade:
- In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Marinate the Beef:
- Place the beef slices in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring all the pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef slices in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the beef is browned and cooked through. You may need to cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Serve:
- Serve the savory beef tapa hot with garlic fried rice and a sunny-side-up egg for a classic “Tapsilog” meal. Enjoy with a side of sliced tomatoes or pickled vegetables for added flavor.
Tips for the Best Beef Tapa
- Thin Slices: Ensure the beef is sliced thinly for quicker cooking and better absorption of the marinade.
- Marinating Time: The longer the beef marinates, the more flavorful it will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
- Cooking in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the beef cooks evenly and gets a nice sear.
Tasty and simple to prepare, Savory Beef Tapa is a great recipe for any time of day. This traditional Filipino dish, with its flavorful marinade and soft beef slices, is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Savor the flavorful fusion of garlic rice, eggs, and savory meat for an incredibly filling dinner! ππ