Best Beef Salpicao Recipe | Easy Filipino Garlic Beef Stir-Fry

Beef Salpicao Recipe is one of those dishes that instantly won my heart. The first time I tried it, the aroma of sizzling garlic and butter filled my kitchen and honestly, it was impossible not to fall in love with its rich flavor. The juicy beef cubes coated in savory sauce made every bite feel like a restaurant-style treat, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

What makes this dish truly special is how balanced it feels a bit garlicky, slightly salty, and perfectly tender. It’s a recipe that works for both a comforting weeknight meal and an impressive dinner for guests. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s considered one of the most beloved Filipino beef recipes around the world.

The Story Behind Beef Salpicao Recipe

Beef Salpicao is believed to have Portuguese and Spanish roots but became a Filipino favorite over the years. The original European version was made with cubed meat sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and spices. When it reached the Philippines, locals gave it a flavorful twist by adding soy sauce, butter, and sometimes Worcestershire sauce making it deeply savory and truly unique.

What Exactly Is Beef Salpicao?

Beef Salpicao is a garlicky beef stir-fry made with tender sirloin or rib-eye cubes cooked in butter, olive oil, and soy-based sauce. The dish is known for its bold, rich flavors and quick cooking time, which keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. Many versions include mushrooms for extra texture, turning it into a Beef Salpicao recipe with mushroom, loved by those who enjoy earthy flavors.

What Makes This Beef Salpicao Truly Irresistible

This dish is all about simplicity and taste. You don’t need fancy ingredients just good-quality beef, garlic, butter, and soy sauce. The recipe cooks in minutes, but the flavor feels like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. It’s also a great choice for busy people who want something special without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

To make your cooking smooth and enjoyable, keep these kitchen essentials ready:

• Frying pan or skillet: For searing the beef perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: To marinate the meat.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring without damaging the pan.
• Knife and cutting board: For dicing beef and other ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: To keep your seasoning balanced.

These simple tools make it easy to achieve that professional-style finish even at home.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare the ingredients of Beef Salpicao recipe:

• 500g beef sirloin or rib-eye, cut into cubes
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp salt (optional, since soy sauce is salty)
• 1 cup mushrooms (optional, for a Beef Salpicao recipe with mushroom twist)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for spice lovers)

These simple yet flavorful ingredients are what make the traditional Beef Salpicao recipe so delicious and easy to master.

Cooking Beef Salpicao Recipe: A Beginner-Friendly Breakdown

Let’s prepare this irresistible dish step by step:

1. Marinate the beef: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, black pepper, and garlic. Add beef cubes and coat well. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes to soak in all the flavors.
   
2. Prepare your pan: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until the butter melts completely.
   
3. Sear the beef: Add marinated beef to the hot pan. Let each side brown nicely without overcooking. The secret is to cook quickly to keep the meat tender.
   
4. Add mushrooms: If you’re making a version with mushrooms, add them now and sauté for a few minutes until soft.
   
5. Finish with sauce: Pour in any remaining marinade and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beef evenly.
   
6. Serve hot: Turn off the heat and let it rest for a minute. Serve warm with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s an estimated nutritional profile per serving:

• Calories: ~380 kcal
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Iron: 15% DV

This dish is rich in protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for those who follow a high-protein diet.

Best Ways to Serve

Beef Salpicao pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, garlic fried rice, or even buttered pasta. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a lighter combination. Its buttery sauce complements almost anything!

Health Benefits of This Dish

Since it’s protein-packed and rich in iron, Beef Salpicao helps build muscle strength and supports energy levels. Garlic and olive oil contribute heart-healthy fats, while mushrooms (if added) boost immunity and provide essential minerals.

FAQs

1. What is Beef Salpicao made of?

It’s made from cubed beef stir-fried in olive oil, butter, garlic, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.

2. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can try a chicken version for a lighter flavor while keeping the same marinade.

3. How can I make it spicy?

Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

4. What’s the best side dish for Beef Salpicao?

Garlic rice or mashed potatoes are classic sides that balance the savory taste.

5. Can I store leftovers?

Yes. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat gently before serving.

Final Thoughts

To wrap it up, the Beef Salpicao Recipe is a wonderful balance of rich flavors, quick preparation, and satisfying comfort. It’s a timeless dish that proves you don’t need complex ingredients to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste right to your table every single time.