Beef Salpicao is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings together rich flavors and tender textures in every bite. Originating from the Philippines, this dish is a celebration of beef’s natural versatility and combines classic seasoning techniques with a touch of heat.
Why We Love This Beef Salpicao Recipe
What makes Beef Salpicao stand out is its stunning simplicity paired with robust flavors. The ribeye steak, known for its marbling and tenderness, takes center stage in this dish. Enhancing its natural richness are the bold flavors of Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, creating a savory concoction that’s hard to resist. Each piece of beef is generously coated in a mixture of garlic and seasonings, leading to a dish that is aromatic and satisfying, sure to please a crowd or make a perfect cozy dinner for yourself. The inclusion of chili pepper flakes gives it a mild kick, while the butter and olive oil create a sumptuous sauce that pairs wonderfully with rice or a fresh salad.
Ingredients about Beef Salpicao
Creating a perfect Beef Salpicao requires choosing the right ingredients. Below is the list of what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish.
- 2 pounds ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 head garlic, peeled and minced
Each ingredient contributes to the dish’s overall flavor profile, ensuring that every mouthful brings something special.
How to Make Beef Salpicao Directions
Making Beef Salpicao is straightforward, making it an ideal meal for both seasoned chefs and kitchen novices. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you on your culinary journey.
- Prepare the Beef: Begin by placing the cubes of ribeye steak in a large bowl. Generously season the beef with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let the meat marinate for approximately 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate the beef.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, combine Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red chili pepper flakes. Whisk these ingredients together until the brown sugar has completely dissolved, creating a smooth sauce that will elevate your beef.
- Cook the Garlic: In a wide, thick-bottomed pan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. It’s essential to let the butter warm up but not get too hot, as you want to avoid burning it. Once the butter starts to melt, add the minced garlic. Stir it continuously, cooking for about a minute or until the garlic becomes light brown. This will bring out the aromatic qualities of the garlic, infusing your dish with flavor.
- Sear the Beef: Increase the heat to high and ensure the pan is hot. Add the marinated beef cubes to the pan, spreading them out evenly. Allow the beef to sear for about 1 to 2 minutes on one side before turning to sear the other side. This process adds a beautiful crust to the beef and locks in its juices.
- Combine and Simmer: Once the beef is beautifully seared, pour the sauce mixture over it. Continue to cook, stirring regularly for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: After finishing cooking, remove the Beef Salpicao from the pan. You can garnish it with chopped green onions and fried garlic bits for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
The entire process is relatively quick, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
How to Serve Beef Salpicao
Serving Beef Salpicao is an opportunity to elevate the dining experience. Here are a few ideas on how you can present this delicious dish:
- With White Rice: A classic way to serve Beef Salpicao is alongside fluffy white rice. The rice will soak up the savory sauce, providing a harmonious balance to the rich beef.
- On a Bed of Greens: Consider serving the Beef Salpicao on a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or spinach. This adds a refreshing touch and complement the dish’s flavors, making it a wholesome meal.
- As Part of a Platter: If you’re entertaining, you can serve Beef Salpicao as part of a mixed platter. Include other side dishes like sautéed vegetables and roasted potatoes for a varied dining experience.
- With a Side of Noodles: For a fusion twist, serve your Beef Salpicao with stir-fried noodles. The combination of tender beef and perfectly cooked noodles will pack a flavorful punch.
Remember, presentation can enhance the meal’s appeal, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your plating!
Expert Tips: Beef Salpicao
To create the most flavorful and tender Beef Salpicao possible, consider the following expert tips:
- Choose Quality Beef: The quality of your ribeye steak affects the outcome significantly. Opt for well-marbled cuts, as the fat ensures moisture and flavor during cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Marinade: Allowing the beef to marinate for a longer period—even overnight—can intensify the flavors. Consider preparing it in advance if you have time.
- Control the Heat: When cooking the garlic, pay attention to the heat level. Too high can lead to burnt garlic, ruining the flavor, while too low may not achieve the desired browning.
- Stir Frequently: When the beef is cooking, stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent any pieces from burning.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the amount of red chili pepper flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers while cooking.
By following these tips, you can elevate your Beef Salpicao to new culinary heights, impressing family and friends alike.
How to Store Beef Salpicao
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often rare given how delicious this dish is), storing them properly will help maintain their flavor. Follow these steps for effective storage:
- Cool Down First: Allow the Beef Salpicao to cool down to room temperature before storing. Placing hot food directly in the fridge can raise the temperature inside, affecting other stored items.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled Beef Salpicao into airtight containers. This will help prevent moisture loss and limit exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Store your Beef Salpicao in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. When properly sealed, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Reheat Thoroughly: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, make sure to reheat them thoroughly in a skillet or microwave until warm. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist while reheating.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the wonderful flavors of Beef Salpicao days after it’s initially made.
Variation of Beef Salpicao
While the classic Beef Salpicao recipe holds a special charm, there are various ways to put a personal spin on it:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers or carrots while cooking to add extra texture and flavors. They’ll bring color to your dish and make it more nutritious.
- Try Different Cuts: While ribeye is recommended for its tenderness, don’t hesitate to experiment with different cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as different cuts will have varying tenderness.
- Use Different Sauces: Feel free to customize the sauce by adding a hint of sesame oil or providing a citrus twist with lemon or lime juice. Each variation can result in a unique flavor profile.
- Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy heat, try adding sriracha or other hot sauces to the marinade for an added kick. You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
With these variations, you can make Beef Salpicao a new culinary adventure each time you prepare it.
FAQ: Beef Salpicao
What cut of beef is best for Beef Salpicao?
The ribeye cut is preferred for its marbling and tenderness, which yield juicy and flavorful bites. However, other cuts like sirloin or flank can also be used if prepared correctly.
How long can I store cooked Beef Salpicao?
You can store cooked Beef Salpicao in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it and enjoy within 3 months.
Can I make Beef Salpicao spicy?
Absolutely! You can adjust the spice levels by adding more red chili pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporating fresh chilies during cooking.
What should I serve with Beef Salpicao?
Beef Salpicao pairs wonderfully with white rice, sautéed vegetables, or even on a platter with noodles. Feel free to create combinations that suit your taste!

Beef Salpicao
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes Opt for well-marbled cuts for best flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Generously season the beef.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes Adjust for spice preference.
- 2 tablespoons butter Avoid letting the butter burn.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 head garlic, peeled and minced Enhances aromatic qualities.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the cubes of ribeye steak in a large bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let marinate for approximately 10 minutes.
- In a separate small bowl, combine Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and red chili pepper flakes. Whisk until the brown sugar has dissolved.
Cooking
- Heat butter and olive oil in a thick-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir for about a minute until light brown.
- Increase heat to high and add marinated beef cubes to the pan. Sear for 1 to 2 minutes on one side before flipping.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the seared beef and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring regularly to meld the flavors.
Serving
- Remove Beef Salpicao from the pan and garnish with chopped green onions and fried garlic bits before serving.
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