Fancy Breakfasts · Filipino
Tapa
These cured beef strips are punched up with plenty of garlic and a touch of sweetness, serving as a perfect start to any day.
Why This Works
The vinegar breaks down the tough proteins while the sugar caramelizes into a beautiful, sticky coating.
The Upgrade
Use freshly minced garlic rather than garlic powder to get those charred, crunchy bits of garlic on the beef.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueLet the beef sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before searing to ensure it browns perfectly rather than grey-searing.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 30 min
Directions
Whisk soy sauce, sugar, garlic, pepper, and vinegar in a bowl.
2 minMarinate beef strips in the mixture for depth of flavor.
15 minHeat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat with a dash of oil.
2 minSear the beef in the hot skillet, ensuring even browning on both sides.
5 minRemove the beef when the edges are crisp and caramelized.
2 minDeglaze the pan with the residual marinade, reducing it into a sticky glaze.
4 minToss the beef back into the glaze to coat evenly.
1 minWine Pairing
Zinfandel
Red Wine
The BottleRidge Vineyards Geyserville
The brambly fruit and hint of black pepper in a balanced Zinfandel elevate the garlic-heavy marinade of the Tapa. Its moderate tannins stand up well to the cured, slightly chewy texture of the beef.
Nutrition per Serving
280
calories
30g
protein
10g
carbs
12g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Sautéed Garlic Spinach
Quickly wilt fresh spinach in garlic and olive oil for a light, nutritious contrast to the savory beef strips.
Ingredients
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
Add the spinach to the skillet in handfuls, tossing constantly with tongs to coat in the garlic oil.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is just wilted and bright green.
Season immediately with kosher salt and remove from heat.
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and serve warm.
Side Dish
Sunny Side Up Egg
A runny yolk provides a creamy element that mellows the saltiness of the garlic-cured beef.
Ingredients
Directions
Place a small non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and melt the butter until foaming.
Carefully crack the egg into the pan, ensuring the yolk remains centered.
Cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes until the whites are opaque and set, but the yolk remains warm and liquid.
Tilt the pan slightly to baste the whites with butter if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Carefully slide the egg onto the plate alongside your tapa.
Season lightly with fleur de sel and fresh black pepper immediately before serving.
Member Reviews
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Rate this recipe
Tastes like something you'd pay 30 dollars for at a restaurant.