Are you looking for a way to spice up your steak game? Look no further! Bistec, a type of grilled or pan-seared steak that’s popular in many Latin American countries, is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served at any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a romantic evening, or just want a quick and easy meal, these 18 bistec recipes are sure to please.
From classic garlic butter bistec with chimichurri sauce to bold Mexican bistec en salsa roja, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? These recipes can be easily adapted to suit your tastes and dietary needs. So why settle for a boring old steak when you can try one of these mouthwatering bistec options instead?
In the following pages, we’ll explore the rich flavors and textures that make bistec such a beloved dish around the world. From tender grilled bistec with rosemary potatoes to savory stuffed bistec with mushrooms, there’s no end to the possibilities.
Garlic Butter Bistec with Chimichurri
This Argentine-inspired dish combines tender bistec (beef strips) with a rich garlic butter sauce and a tangy, herby chimichurri. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as flank steak or skirt steak)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chimichurri sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic.
3. Grill beef strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Brush garlic butter mixture on beef during last minute of cooking.
5. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mexican Bistec en Salsa Roja
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico with this tender and juicy bistec en salsa roja, served with a tangy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak (bistec)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cups salsa roja (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Season the bistec with salt and pepper.
2. Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bistec and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Remove the bistec from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil, garlic, and onion. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the salsa roja to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and onion mixture.
6. Serve the bistec sliced and topped with the warm salsa roja.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cuban Bistec Empanizado
This classic Cuban dish is a staple of any fiesta or celebration. Thinly sliced beef cutlets are wrapped in a crispy empanada crust and fried to perfection, resulting in a deliciously savory and crunchy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound thinly sliced beef cutlets
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Season the beef cutlets with paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each beef cutlet in the flour mixture, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the milk.
4. Wrap each beef cutlet with empanada dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the empanadas for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Bistec a la Parrilla with Grilled Vegetables
Experience the flavors of Argentina with this classic grilled steak recipe, paired with colorful and flavorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak (or skirt steak)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– For the grilled vegetables:
+ 1 red bell pepper, sliced
+ 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
+ 1 large onion, sliced
+ 2 zucchinis, sliced
+ 2 tbsp olive oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and oregano. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
3. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, brush the sliced vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
7. Let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with the grilled vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec Ranchero with Fried Eggs
This recipe combines tender grilled steak with a rich and creamy ranchero sauce, served with two sunny-side-up eggs. Perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 can (10 oz) of tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with garlic, salt, and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced jalapeño and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in tomato sauce and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Fry eggs in a non-stick skillet over medium heat until the whites are set and yolks are still runny.
6. Slice grilled steak against the grain, then serve with fried eggs and ranchero sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bistec con Cebolla (Steak with Onions)
A classic Argentinean dish that combines tender steak with caramelized onions, perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sliced onions and minced garlic.
3. Brush steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. While steak is cooking, caramelize onions in the same pan by stirring occasionally and reducing heat to medium-low. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until onions are golden brown.
6. Once steak is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
7. Serve sliced steak with caramelized onions and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bistec al Horno with Rosemary Potatoes
Experience the classic flavors of Argentina with this simple yet impressive recipe. Thinly sliced steak cooked to perfection and served alongside crispy rosemary potatoes is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
For the Bistec al Horno:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rosemary Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place the steak in a large ziplock bag and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange potato wedges in a single layer and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle chopped rosemary on top.
5. Remove steak from marinade and place on a separate baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are crispy and steak reaches desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Bistec Relleno (Stuffed Steak)
A classic Latin American dish, Bistec Relleno is a flavorful and savory steak stuffed with a delicious filling. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound flank steak
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stuff each flank steak with the cooked vegetables, cilantro, and queso fresco.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic (if using).
5. Place the stuffed steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bistec Tacos with Avocado Crema
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines tender beef strips with crispy taco shells and a creamy avocado sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as flank steak or skirt steak)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Avocado Crema (see below for recipe)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced onions, sour cream
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large resealable bag, combine lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by slicing the grilled beef into thin strips and placing it onto a warmed shell. Top with Avocado Crema and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including marinating time)
Bistec con Hongos (Steak with Mushrooms)
A classic Latin American dish that combines the rich flavors of grilled steak and sautéed mushrooms, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season steak with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Grill steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 8 minutes).
6. Serve grilled steak with sautéed mushrooms spooned on top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec a la Criolla (Creole-Style Steak)
This classic Cuban dish is a flavorful twist on traditional steak, marinated in a zesty mixture of sour orange juice, garlic, and spices. The result is a tender and aromatic cut of beef that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup sour orange juice (or substitute with lime or grapefruit)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine sour orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the flank steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec con Queso (Cheesy Steak)
Bistec con Queso (Cheesy Steak) Recipe
A classic Mexican dish that combines the flavors of grilled steak and melted cheese, Bistec con Queso is a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the steak.
4. Grill the steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the steak is cooking, sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top.
6. Once the steak is cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
7. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve hot with melted cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec Picado (Diced Steak with Peppers)
This classic Latin American dish is a flavorful and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Thinly sliced steak is cooked to perfection with colorful peppers, onions, and spices, creating a delicious and aromatic stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced steak and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the diced peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the cooked steak back into the skillet and stir-fry with the vegetables for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec con Papas (Steak with Potatoes)
This classic recipe is a staple of Latin American cuisine, where tender steak is paired with crispy potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this flavorful dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with vegetable oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. Place potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
5. Meanwhile, grill or pan-fry the steak to desired level of doneness (about 3-4 minutes per side).
6. Serve the steak with roasted potatoes and garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bistec en Adobo (Marinated Steak)
A classic Latin American dish that’s both flavorful and tender, Bistec en Adobo is a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec con Salsa Verde
This recipe combines tender beef strips with a tangy and herby salsa verde, perfect for serving with warm tortillas or rice. The result is a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strip loin or ribeye, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add cilantro, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in salsa verde and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve beef with salsa verde spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec a la Plancha (Griddled Steak)
Experience the bold flavors of Argentina with this classic recipe for Bistec a la Plancha, or griddled steak. This method allows the natural juices of the steak to shine while adding a crispy crust on the outside.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the steak on the preheated griddle and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
6. Serve with softened butter spread over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Bistec con Limón y Ajo (Lemon Garlic Steak)
A flavorful and aromatic steak dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Place the steak in a shallow dish and brush the garlic-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the steak.
4. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Transfer the steak to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your steak game with these 18 mouth-watering bistec recipes from around the world. From classic Cuban Bistec Empanizado to bold Mexican Bistec en Salsa Roja, and decadent Bistec con Queso, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special celebration, these recipes will inspire your inner chef. With flavors ranging from garlic butter to rosemary potatoes, and chimichurri to avocado crema, you’ll never run out of ideas for cooking up the perfect bistec.