Bistec Encebollado (Cuban Steak with Onions)
Thinly sliced steak marinated in a flavorful mixture of citrus, garlic, and spices, then quickly cooked and smothered with sweet, tender sautéed onions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Thinly sliced sirloin steak (or cube steak)
- 3 tablespoons Lime juice
- 1 cup Sour orange juice (or more lime juice)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(smashed or minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon Cumin
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried oregano
- 2 large Large yellow onions(thinly sliced into rings)
- 4 tablespoons Olive oil
- for garnish Fresh cilantro(chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced steak, lime juice, sour orange juice, smashed garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano. Mix well to coat the steak. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 4 hours - 2
While the steak marinates, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 3
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the marinated steak (discarding excess marinade) in batches, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the steak and set aside.
⏱️ 4-6 minutes - 4
Deglaze the skillet by adding a splash of water or the reserved marinade, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the steak and sautéed onions to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and steak to finish cooking.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It's traditionally served with white rice and black beans.
💡 Tip: For a more tender steak, pound it thin with a meat mallet before marinating.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If sour oranges are unavailable, a mix of lime and orange juice can be used.
- ✓Don't overcook the steak; it should remain tender.
- ✓The onions should be sweet and tender, not burnt.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of sazón seasoning to the marinade for extra color and flavor.
- Some recipes include a splash of white vinegar in the marinade for added tang.