History of Filipino Beef Salpicao
Filipino Beef Salpicao has its roots in both Spanish and Portuguese cuisine.
It is believed that the name "salpicao" was derived from the Portuguese word "salpicão," which refers to a dish made of diced or shredded meat, usually served with vegetables and spices.
Over time, the dish has evolved to suit Filipino tastes and local ingredients, resulting in the unique and delightful Filipino beef salpicao we know today.
Key Ingredients
The star of this dish is beef tenderloin, which is prized for its tenderness and rich flavor.
The meat is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, salt, pepper and cornstarch to add depth and ensure a velvety texture.
The dish also features sliced mushrooms, which provide an earthy contrast to the savory sauce, and grated cheddar cheese for added richness.
Other key ingredients include garlic, butter, cooking oil, oyster sauce, salt, and black pepper.
Preparation Tips
Before you start cooking, it's essential to gather and prepare your ingredients. Here are some tips to make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable:
- Choose a high-quality beef tenderloin to ensure a tender and flavorful dish.
- Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces for easier cooking and eating.
- Measure out all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
- Clean and slice the mushrooms to ensure even cooking.
- Grate the cheddar cheese and set aside for later use.
Gathering the Goods: What You'll Need
Before we venture into the kitchen, let's make sure we have everything on hand:
- 500g beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, to taste
- 4 tbsp soy sauce (1 tbsp for marination, 3 tbsp for cooking)
- 60g butter
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 100g sliced mushrooms
- 60g grated cheddar cheese
- Toasted garlic, to serve
- Chopped parsley, to serve
How to Make Beef Salpicao
Marinating Magic: Creating the Perfect Beef Bite
Marinating the beef is the first step in our Salpicao journey. Mixing the beef tenderloin with cornstarch, salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of soy sauce infuses each bite with a blend of savory flavors. This initial seasoning stage is critical, as it sets the stage for the symphony of flavors that follow.
Building the Base: Sautéing with Care
Next, we heat the butter and oil on medium, then sauté the minced garlic until it releases its captivating aroma. It's vital to avoid burning the garlic here — we're looking for a golden hue that promises a flavor-packed base for our Salpicao.
The Main Event: Introducing the Beef and Mushrooms
Now, it's time for the star of our dish — the marinated beef. We add it to our aromatic garlic base, followed by the sliced mushrooms, remaining soy sauce, and oyster sauce. The result? A savory concoction of ingredients that synergize to create an unforgettable Salpicao experience.
Adding the Creamy Twist: Say Cheese!
Our secret ingredient for this recipe is cheddar cheese, which gives our Salpicao a creamy twist. We add the cheese to our sautéed mix, stirring until it's entirely melted and well combined. This creamy addition is what sets our Salpicao apart from the rest!
The Finishing Touches: Serving Up Your Salpicao
To serve, we top our Salpicao with toasted garlic and chopped parsley. These garnishes add an extra layer of texture and flavor, ensuring each bite is a unique treat. For a complete meal, serve this dish with a side of fluffy rice, allowing the grains to soak up all the delectable juices.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, transfer the beef salpicao to a platter and garnish with toasted garlic and chopped parsley. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice or garlic fried rice for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Variations of Filipino Beef Salpicao
If you're looking to try something different, consider these alternative versions of salpicao:
- Chicken Salpicao: Substitute chicken breast or thigh for the beef tenderloin.
- Shrimp Salpicao: Replace the beef with peeled and deveined shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Vegetarian Salpicao: Use tofu or your favorite meat substitute, and replace the oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative.
Health Benefits
Filipino beef salpicao is not only delicious but also nutritious. The dish is high in protein from the beef tenderloin, while the mushrooms provide essential vitamins and minerals. The garlic and soy sauce offer potential health benefits, such as improved heart health and immune support.
Nutritional Info Per Serving
Given the ingredients list, and considering this recipe serves four, with approximately 250g per serving, here is the estimated nutritional content:
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 1,900mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the salpicao in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it may cause the beef to become tough and overcooked.
Conclusion
Filipino beef salpicao is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal. With its tender beef, savory sauce, and delectable combination of ingredients, it's no wonder this dish has become a favorite among Filipinos and food enthusiasts worldwide.
FAQs
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Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use sirloin, ribeye, or other tender cuts of beef. However, beef tenderloin is preferred for its tenderness and rich flavor.
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What other cheeses can I use instead of cheddar? You can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or use queso de bola (Edam cheese) for a more authentic Filipino touch.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can marinate the beef and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and cook the dish when you're ready to serve.
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What can I serve with Filipino beef salpicao besides rice? You can serve this dish with mashed potatoes, egg
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Is Filipino beef salpicao gluten-free? This recipe may contain gluten from the soy sauce and oyster sauce. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce substitutes.
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Can I freeze Filipino beef salpicao? Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
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How do I adjust the spiciness of Filipino beef salpicao? To make the dish spicier, you can add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers during the sauce-making stage. To make it milder, simply omit these ingredients or reduce the amount used according to your taste preference.