Bistec Encebollado Recipe – Authentic Steak with Onions
There’s something truly comforting about a plate of Bistec Encebollado recipe, a classic Latin American dish where tender steak meets sweet, caramelized onions. This dish is celebrated for its simplicity and bold flavors, making it a staple in many households.
Whether you’re preparing a hearty family dinner or experimenting with authentic Latin cuisine, this Bistec Encebollado Recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor. Every slice of steak absorbs the rich onion sauce, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist.
How to Make This Recipe?
Making Bistec Encebollado is straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure the steak is tender and the onions are perfectly caramelized. Begin by seasoning the steak and searing it in a hot pan. Then, cook the onions slowly until they release their natural sweetness, combining them with the steak to create a savory, slightly sweet sauce.

The key is to balance the flavors and cook each ingredient just right so every bite is juicy, tender, and flavorful.
Ingredients for This Recipe
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak (sirloin or top round)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Easy Step-by-Step Method for Bistec Encebollado Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Steak: Season the steak slices with salt, pepper, paprika, and a little lime juice. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly until golden and caramelized, about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Add minced garlic in the last 2 minutes.
Step 3: Sear the Steak: Push the onions to the side of the pan and add the steak slices. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender.
Step 4: Combine and Season: Mix the onions with the steak. Add soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce and stir to coat the steak evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve: Transfer the steak and onions to a plate. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice, beans, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations
- Steak Options: Use tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or top round for the best results.
- Onion Variations: Red onions add a sweeter flavor, while white onions offer a sharper taste.
- Extra Flavor: Add bell peppers or a splash of beef broth for a richer sauce.
- Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 32 g
FAQs
Q: What is Bistec Encebollado?
A: Bistec Encebollado is a traditional Latin American dish of thinly sliced beef cooked with caramelized onions, known for its savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Q: What are the ingredients in Bistec?
A: Thinly sliced beef, onions, garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
Q: How do you make authentic Bistec Encebollado recipe?
A: Use tender beef, slowly caramelize onions, and combine with the steak using soy and Worcestershire sauce for authentic flavor.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes, bell peppers or mushrooms can be added for variation and extra flavor.
Conclusion
The Bistec Encebollado Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for any meal. Tender beef combined with sweet, caramelized onions creates a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. With these easy steps and tips, you can recreate this authentic Latin American favorite in your own kitchen and enjoy a satisfying meal with family and friends.
Bistec Encebollado Recipe – Authentic Steak with Onions
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Latin American / CubanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes20
minutes320 kcal (per serving)
kcalA classic Latin American steak dish made with tender beef and sweet caramelized onions, full of rich flavor.
Ingredients
2 large onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp ground black pepper
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp paprika (optional)
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Steak: Season the steak slices with salt, pepper, paprika, and a little lime juice. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Step 2: Cook the Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly until golden and caramelized, about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Add minced garlic in the last 2 minutes.
- Step 3: Sear the Steak: Push the onions to the side of the pan and add the steak slices. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned but still tender.
- Step 4: Combine and Season: Mix the onions with the steak. Add soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce and stir to coat the steak evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Step 5: Serve: Transfer the steak and onions to a plate. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice, beans, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Notes
- Slice steak thinly for quicker cooking and better tenderness.
- Caramelize onions slowly to bring out natural sweetness.
- Adjust seasoning gradually to suit your taste.