puerto rican bistec encebollado recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best puerto rican bistec encebollado recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – Bistec Encebollado, a classic Puerto Rican dish that never fails to impress. This tender and flavorful beef steak recipe is a staple in many Latin American households, and for good reason.

The combination of marinated beef, sautéed onions, and a hint of garlic is absolute perfection. My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they can’t get enough of the finished product.

Whether we’re serving it on a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday night, Bistec Encebollado is always a hit. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. I’ve even started experimenting with different marinades and seasonings to give it a unique twist.

My husband raves about the flavors and says it’s one of the best beef dishes he’s ever had. I’ve also noticed that it’s an excellent way to get my kids to eat their veggies – they love helping me chop the onions and getting them involved in the cooking process makes them more willing to try new foods.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how quickly this recipe comes together and how versatile it is for meal prep or last-minute dinner ideas. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get in some extra protein and fiber without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Puerto Rican Bistec Encebollado

4.6 from 1105 votes

Bistec encebollado is a classic Puerto Rican dish featuring thinly sliced beef steak cooked in a savory onion sauce. The steak is marinated in a blend of garlic, oregano, and adobo, then simmered with plenty of onions until tender and flavorful.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Steak

1 1/2 pounds top round or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon adobo seasoning
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar

For the Onion Sauce

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced into rings
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup water
1 packet (1.4 oz) Sazon seasoning with achiote
1 bay leaf
Salt to taste
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the thinly sliced steak between two sheets of plastic wrap.
2Use a meat mallet to pound each piece to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch, which helps tenderize the meat and ensures even cooking.
3In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried oregano, adobo seasoning, black pepper, olive oil, and distilled white vinegar.
4Add the pounded steak slices and toss to coat evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
5Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes until they become soft and translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Nestle the marinated steak slices into the skillet with the onions, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
8Pour in the water, sprinkle the Sazon seasoning over everything, and add the bay leaf, then bring the liquid to a gentle boil.
9Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the bistec simmer for 20 to 25 minutes.
10The steak should be fork-tender and the onions will have softened into a rich, savory sauce; taste and adjust salt as needed before serving.
11Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
12Transfer the bistec encebollado to a serving platter, spoon the onion sauce generously over the top, and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro for a bright finish.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Meat mallet or rolling pin
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a more intense flavor, marinate the steak overnight in the refrigerator. If you cannot find Sazon seasoning, substitute with 1 teaspoon ground achiote mixed with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon cumin. Serve with white rice, black beans, and fried plantains for a complete meal.

Watch Video Of How Puerto Rican Bistec Encebollado Works

This recipe is always a good idea – whether you’re serving it at home with family or at a large gathering with friends.

The key to success lies in marinating the beef long enough to allow the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.

Once cooked, let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness and juiciness.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Puerto Rican Bistec Encebollado

Q: What is Bistec Encebollado?

A: Bistec Encebollado is a traditional Puerto Rican dish consisting of marinated beef steak served with sautéed onions and garlic.

Q: What type of beef works best for this recipe?

A: You can use either flank steak or skirt steak for this recipe – both will yield delicious results. Flank steak tends to be leaner and more tender, while skirt steak has a bit more fat and flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance – just make sure to refrigerate it at 40°F (4°C) or below. You can also prepare the onions and garlic ahead of time, but assemble the dish just before serving.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A: Unfortunately, no – this recipe features beef as its main ingredient, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, you can easily substitute with plant-based alternatives like portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover Bistec Encebollado in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat by steaming or grilling until warmed through.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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