RecipesEl SalvadorSalpicón de Res

Salpicón de Res

A refreshing and flavorful Salvadoran beef salad, typically made with finely shredded or ground cooked beef, mixed with finely chopped vegetables and a tangy lime-based dressing. It's often served as a light meal or appetizer.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Salpicón de Res - El Salvador traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 500 g Beef (flank steak or similar cut)
  • 4 cups Water
  • 1/2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
  • 1/2 medium Bell pepper (any color)(finely chopped)
  • 1 medium Tomato(seeded and finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves(finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro(finely chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Lime juice(freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Place the beef in a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

    ⏱️ 45-60 minutes
  2. 2

    Remove the beef from the pot and let it cool slightly. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the cooking liquid.

    💡 Tip: You can shred the beef with forks or finely chop it.
  3. 3

    Once cooled, finely shred or chop the beef. Place it in a large bowl.

  4. 4

    Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, tomato, mint, and cilantro to the bowl with the beef.

    💡 Tip: Ensure all vegetables are chopped very finely for the best texture.
  5. 5

    In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, reserved beef cooking liquid, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

  6. 6

    Pour the dressing over the beef and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.

    ⏱️ 2 minutes
  7. 7

    Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

    ⏱️ 30 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

  • For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of cumin to the beef while cooking.
  • Serve chilled with crackers, tostadas, or as a filling for lettuce cups.
  • Adjust the amount of lime juice and salt to your taste.

🔄 Variations

  • Add finely diced celery for extra crunch.
  • Include a small amount of finely chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
  • Some variations include a small amount of finely chopped hard-boiled egg.

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