Bistek Tagalog — Citrus-Soy Sirloin Steak with Onion Rings

Ingredients

• 1 lb Sirloin Steak, sliced thin against the grain
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup calamansi or lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 onions, sliced into thick rings
• 3 tbsp oil
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp black pepper, coarsely ground
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Method

1. Marinate the Sirloin Steak in the soy sauce, citrus juice, garlic, and pepper for 15–30 minutes — longer and the citrus starts cooking it for you.
2. Sear the onion rings in 1 tbsp oil over high heat until charred at the edges but still crisp-tender; set aside. They're a topping, not a casualty.
3. Drain the Sirloin Steak (keep the marinade) and sear in the remaining oil in batches, 1 minute per side, until browned.
4. Pour in the marinade and water and simmer 5–7 minutes until the sauce reduces to a dark, clingy glaze.
5. Pile the onion rings on top, let them warm for 30 seconds, and serve over rice with plenty of sauce.