Creamy Filipino Beef Salpicao

Are you looking for a sweet and fluffy treat to brighten up your day? Look no further than Mary Grace Ensaymada! This traditional Filipino pastry has many varieties sold in different establishments around the Philippines, but we particularly like the one by Mary Grace because of its super soft and delicate texture. Ensaymada is very similar to brioche in that it has lots of butter and it is very soft compared to regular bread. This is essentially Mary Grace's signature dish which built her restaurant empire and we want to share with you this method by Purple Apron so that we can try and make it at home. Let's get started!

By
Purple Apron adapted by JojoM
Updated
2023-03-27
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Creamy Filipino Beef Salpicao

Creamy Filipino Beef Salpicao

Purple Apron adapted by JojoM
27 March 2023
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Schedule recipe
Prep Time
15M
Perform Time
30M
Cook Time
15M
Total Time
60M
Yield
1000 grams
Cook Method
Sautéing
Tools Needed (Affiliate Links)

Ingredients

  • Marination
    Add beef tenderloin to grocery list
    Add beef tenderloin to pantry list
    500g beef tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Add cornstarch to grocery list
    Add cornstarch to pantry list
    2 tsp cornstarch
  • Add salt to grocery list
    Add salt to pantry list
    1/2 tsp salt
  • Add black pepper to grocery list
    Add black pepper to pantry list
    1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Add soy sauce to grocery list
    Add soy sauce to pantry list
    1 tbsp soy sauce
  • Sautéing
    Add butter to grocery list
    Add butter to pantry list
    60g butter
  • Add cooking oil to grocery list
    Add cooking oil to pantry list
    2 tbsp cooking oil
  • Add garlic to grocery list
    Add garlic to pantry list
    2 tbsp minced garlic
  • Cooking
    Add oyster sauce to grocery list
    Add oyster sauce to pantry list
    3 tbsp oyster sauce
  • Add mushrooms to grocery list
    Add mushrooms to pantry list
    100g sliced mushrooms
  • Add cheddar cheese to grocery list
    Add cheddar cheese to pantry list
    60g grated cheddar cheese
  • Garnish
    Add garlic to grocery list
    Add garlic to pantry list
    Toasted garlic, to serve
  • Add parsley to grocery list
    Add parsley to pantry list
    Chopped parsley, to serve

Method

  • Step 1
    Marinate the beef with cornstarch, salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of soy sauce.
  • Step 2
    Sauté the minced garlic in the butter and oil on medium heat until aromatic.
  • Step 3
    Add the marinated beef to the sautéed garlic.
  • Step 4
    Add the sliced mushrooms, remaining soy sauce, and oyster sauce.
  • Step 5
    Add grated cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and combined.
  • Step 6
    Serve topped with toasted garlic and chopped parsley.
Notes

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. What can I serve with Filipino beef salpicao besides rice? You can serve this dish with mashed potatoes, egg

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

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