Bistec Encebollado (Puerto Rican Steak and Onions)
Thin beef steaks marinated in vinegar, garlic and adobo, simmered under a mountain of sweet, soft onions until tender. Served with white rice, beans and tostones.
Servings
Ingredients
Nutrition
Per serving
Steps
Marinate the steaks
Pound the beef steaks a little thinner if needed, to an even 5 mm thickness. Rub them with the garlic, , black pepper and vinegar, then cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
- 700 g beef steaks
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tsp
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp white vinegar
✅ Done when: steaks are evenly coated and have chilled at least 1 hour
Sear
Heat the olive oil in a wide 30 cm (12-inch) pan over high heat. Sear the marinated steaks in a single layer, in batches if needed, about 1 minute per side, then set aside and keep the leftover marinade.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 700 g marinated steaks from step 1
✅ Done when: steaks are browned on both sides
Cook the onions
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Simmer
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Serve
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Marinate the steaks
Pound the beef steaks a little thinner if needed, to an even 5 mm thickness. Rub them with the garlic, , black pepper and vinegar, then cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
- 700 g beef steaks
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tsp
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp white vinegar
✅ Done when: steaks are evenly coated and have chilled at least 1 hour
Sear
Heat the olive oil in a wide 30 cm (12-inch) pan over high heat. Sear the marinated steaks in a single layer, in batches if needed, about 1 minute per side, then set aside and keep the leftover marinade.
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 700 g marinated steaks from step 1
✅ Done when: steaks are browned on both sides
Cook the onions
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Simmer
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Serve
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The Story Behind the Dish
Bistec encebollado is one of the most popular dishes in Puerto Rican homes and fondas (small local restaurants). The vinegar marinade tenderises inexpensive thin steaks, and the long simmer with onions creates a rich, tangy sauce.
It's part of the classic 'arroz, habichuelas y carne' lunch plate.
⭐ Why It's Famous
Tender beef and sweet onions in a tangy sauce: everyday Puerto Rican comfort food.
💡 Fun Fact
Many fondas in Puerto Rico list bistec encebollado as a daily special, served with a side of amarillos (fried ripe plantains).
All over Puerto Rico
18.47°N, -66.11°W
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