The first time I tried cooking this dish, I had no idea it would be this good! Honestly, I hadn’t tasted it anywhere before. It kept popping up on my Facebook reels, so I decided to give it a try. And I’m so glad I did! This Filipino Beef Salpicao is quick to make and packed with flavor. I didn’t realize how easy it was to put together. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. It’s like you’re eating beef steak but with a garlicky, buttery twist that makes it even better! If you’re looking for something tasty and straightforward, this beef recipe is definitely worth a try!
What is Beef Salpicao?
I did some quick Google searches and couldn’t seem to find exactly where this unique dish came from. Beef Salpicao seems to be a Filipino take on a garlic and beef stir-fry, but its origins aren’t very clear. I read somewhere that the word “salpicao” might come from the Spanish word salpicar, which means to sprinkle or splash, possibly referring to how the beef is seasoned with garlic and spices. While it may have Spanish influences, this dish has definitely taken on a life of its own in Filipino cuisine. We Filipinos, being natural foodies, always have a way of making dishes our own. Whether it’s adding a twist to classic recipes or creating new flavors, Beef Salpicao is one of those dishes that has become a favorite in many Filipino homes. With its garlicky, savory sauce and tender beef, it’s no surprise that it’s a hit. This dish reflects how we love bold flavors and simple yet satisfying meals that bring comfort and joy to the table.
Beef Salpicao Ingredients
- Beef Tenderloin: Tender and juicy, this cut of beef is perfect for quick cooking, absorbing the flavors of marinades and sauces easily.
- Worcestershire Sauce and Paprika (optional): Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy and savory depth to the beef, while paprika, if used, gives a mild smoky kick.
- Garlic (sliced and minced): Sliced garlic is sautéed until golden and used as a garnish, while minced garlic brings out a rich, aromatic flavor in the sauce.
- Olive Oil and Butter: Olive oil is used to sauté the garlic and sear the beef, while butter adds a creamy richness to the dish.
- Soy Sauce and Oyster Sauce: These sauces combine to create a savory, umami-packed base that complements the beef perfectly.
- Black Pepper and Salt: Ground black pepper adds a bit of heat, while a pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Brown Sugar (optional): If you prefer a hint of sweetness, a touch of brown sugar balances out the savory flavors.
- Green Onions and Fried Garlic (for garnish): Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor, while fried garlic gives a crunchy, aromatic finish.
How To Cook Beef Salpicao?
Marinate the Beef
First, let’s start by marinating the beef. In a bowl, combine your beef tenderloin cubes with Worcestershire sauce and a pinch of paprika (if you’re using it). Mix everything well, making sure each piece of beef is coated evenly. Let the beef sit and marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors really sink into the meat.
Sauté the Garlic
While the beef is marinating, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add your sliced garlic and sauté it until it turns golden brown. Be careful not to burn it! Once the garlic is nicely browned, take it out of the pan and set it aside. We’ll use this as a garnish later.
Sear the Beef
Now, using the same pan with the garlic-infused oil, add your marinated beef cubes. Sear the beef on all sides until they are nicely browned. You want that good sear to lock in the flavor and give the beef a nice texture.
Add the Seasonings
Once your beef is browned, lower the heat a bit. Now, add butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and just a pinch of salt to the pan. Stir everything together so that the beef is well coated in this rich, savory sauce.
Adjust the Sweetness
If you like a little sweetness in your Beef Salpicao, this is the perfect time to add a tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir it in and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. This will also give the sauce time to thicken and coat the beef perfectly. Cook until the beef is just how you like it.
Serve and Garnish
Once everything is done, transfer your Beef Salpicao to a serving plate. Don’t forget to top it with those golden garlic slices you set aside earlier, and if you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Enjoy!
Serve your Beef Salpicao with steamed rice, and you’re ready to dig in. Enjoy this flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
Tips on How To Cook The Perfect Beef Salpicao
- Pick the Right Beef: Use tender cuts like beef tenderloin for juicy and soft bites. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
- Marinate for Flavor: Don’t skip the marination! Let the beef sit for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Get a Good Sear: Make sure your pan is hot enough to sear the beef properly. This locks in the juices and gives it that nice, flavorful crust.
- Handle Garlic Carefully: Sauté the sliced garlic until golden, then set it aside. This keeps it from burning and gives you a tasty garnish.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the beef while cooking. Overcooking can make it tough, so aim for just the right doneness to keep it tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can skip the butter if you prefer a lighter version, though it does add a nice richness to the dish.
Check the beef’s internal temperature or cut a piece to ensure it’s cooked to your liking. It should be tender and just cooked through, not overdone.
Yes, you can use other tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye if tenderloin isn’t available. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to keep the beef tender.
Yes, you can freeze it, but it’s best to eat it within a month for the best quality. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Beef Salpicao
Ingredients
- 500 grams Beef Tenderloin (sliced into cubes)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Paprika (optional)
- 6 cloves Garlic (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 3 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (ground)
- Pinch of Salt
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar (optional)
- Green Onions chopped (for garnish)
- Fried Garlic (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the beef tenderloin with Worcestershire sauce and paprika (if using). Mix well, ensuring all the beef cubes are coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden brown. Once browned, remove the garlic from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan with the garlic-infused oil, add the marinated beef cubes. Sear the beef on all sides until they are browned.
- Once the beef is browned, lower the heat and add the butter, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
- If you prefer a slightly sweet touch, add 1 tbsp of brown sugar at this stage. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness and the sauce is well combined.
- Transfer the beef salpicao to a serving plate. Garnish with the browned garlic slices and chopped green onions.
- Serve with steamed rice and enjoy your flavorful Beef Salpicao!
