We’ve always been captivated by the vibrant flavors of Dominican Bistec a classic steak dish that hails from the sunny streets of the Dominican Republic. This hearty recipe features tender beef marinated in a zesty mix of garlic onions and herbs making it a staple in Caribbean cuisine.
It’s not just delicious—it’s a taste of tradition that brings families together. We’re excited to share our straightforward take on this authentic Dominican Bistec ensuring you create a meal that’s full of bold tastes and easy to master.
Ingredients
In our authentic Dominican Bistec recipe, we select high-quality ingredients to capture the bold, vibrant flavors of this Caribbean favorite. We order them here as they are used in preparation, from marinating to cooking.
- 2 pounds flank steak (sliced into thin strips for quick marinating and tenderizing)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced to infuse the meat with aromatic depth)
- 1 large onion (sliced, with half reserved for marinating and the rest for sautéing)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced, to add a fresh, slightly sweet contrast during cooking)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced, for additional color and flavor balance)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for a savory, umami base in the marinade)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (to tenderize the meat and add tangy acidity)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (squeezed from 2 limes, to enhance the citrus notes typical of Dominican cuisine)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (crumbled, for its earthy herb essence)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (to deepen the spice profile)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste, approximately 1 teaspoon each, adjusted based on meat seasoning needs)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for searing the steak to achieve a golden crust)
Instructions
We guide you through the simple yet flavorful steps to prepare our authentic Dominican Bistec ensuring every bite bursts with zesty garlic and herb-infused goodness.
Prep
Before we dive into cooking our Dominican Bistec, we start by preparing the ingredients to lock in those vibrant Caribbean flavors. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Slice the steak: Take the 2 pounds of flank steak and cut it into thin strips against the grain for tenderness making it easier to absorb the marinade.
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine 4 minced garlic cloves, half of the large onion (thinly sliced), 1 green bell pepper (sliced into strips), 1 red bell pepper (sliced into strips), ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup white vinegar, ¼ cup fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This mixture forms the heart of our Dominican Bistec creating a bold aromatic base.
- Marinate the meat: Add the sliced steak to the bowl with the marinade. Toss everything together to coat evenly then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor infusion. We recommend using tongs to ensure even distribution as the steak soaks up the tangy notes of lime and vinegar.
Cook
Now that our steak is marinated we move on to cooking it to achieve a perfectly seared exterior with juicy insides full of Dominican Bistec essence.
- Heat the pan: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers signaling it’s ready for searing.
- Sear the steak: Remove the steak from the marinade (reserving the liquid) and add it to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness watching as the garlic’s aroma fills the air.
- Add vegetables and simmer: Stir in the reserved marinade along with the remaining half of the onion (sliced). Lower the heat to medium and cook for another 5-7 minutes stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and the sauce thickens. The sizzling sounds and vibrant colors will make your kitchen feel like a Dominican street market.
Serve
To showcase our Dominican Bistec at its best we focus on plating it with flair for a meal that delights the senses and brings families together.
- Plate the dish: Transfer the cooked steak and vegetables to a serving platter arranging them neatly so the colorful bell peppers pop against the golden-brown meat.
- Garnish and pair: Sprinkle with fresh lime wedges for a citrusy zing and serve immediately with sides like white rice or tostones to complement the bold flavors. The tender steak paired with its savory sauce creates a harmonious balance that evokes the warmth of Caribbean traditions.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Dominican Bistec recipe to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential kitchen tools that ensure efficient preparation and cooking. These items help us handle the marinating, slicing, and searing processes seamlessly, building on the flavorful ingredients and steps we’ve outlined.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment we recommend:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip cutting board is vital for safely slicing the flank steak into thin strips and chopping vegetables like onions and bell peppers. We suggest using a large one to minimize mess and keep our workspace organized.
- Chef’s Knife: Our go-to for precision, a sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of mincing garlic and dicing onions. Opt for one with an 8-inch blade to handle the tougher cuts of meat with confidence and accuracy.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized glass or stainless-steel mixing bowl allows us to combine the marinade ingredients—such as garlic, lime juice, and herbs—thoroughly, ensuring the steak absorbs maximum flavor during marination.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: For achieving that perfect sear on the marinated steak, we highly recommend a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron or non-stick, with a diameter of at least 12 inches. This tool delivers even heat distribution, locking in the bold, vibrant flavors of Dominican Bistec.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so a set of standard measuring cups and spoons helps us portion out soy sauce, vinegar, and spices precisely, avoiding any imbalance in the dish’s zesty profile.
- Tongs or Spatula: These are indispensable for flipping and stirring the steak and vegetables in the skillet. We prefer heat-resistant tongs for their grip, ensuring the meat sears evenly without breaking apart.
By having these tools ready, we can transition smoothly from prepping ingredients to executing the cooking steps, creating an authentic and delicious Dominican Bistec every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make preparing Dominican Bistec even more convenient, we suggest planning ahead to let flavors develop fully while saving time on the day of your meal. This approach allows the steak to absorb the zesty marinade, enhancing its tender texture and bold, aromatic taste of garlic, onions, and herbs.
Preparing the Marinade in Advance
We can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours before cooking to intensify the flavors. Follow these steps:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 4 minced garlic cloves, half of the large onion (sliced), 1 green bell pepper (sliced), 1 red bell pepper (sliced), 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons white vinegar, juice of 2 limes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a vibrant, fragrant base that evokes the warmth of Caribbean spices.
- Transfer the marinade to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This step ensures the flavors meld, making your Dominican Bistec even more irresistible.
Marinating the Steak Ahead of Time
For optimal tenderness, we recommend marinating the steak in advance. This allows the beef to soak up the marinade’s tangy and savory notes, resulting in a dish that’s juicy and full of authentic Dominican flair.
- Slice 2 pounds of flank steak into thin strips and place them in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the steak, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally up to 24 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
- If marinating longer than 2 hours, stir or flip the steak halfway through to promote even absorption.
Prepping Vegetables and Other Ingredients
To streamline your cooking process, we can chop and store vegetables ahead of time without losing their fresh, crisp quality.
- Slice the remaining half of the large onion and any additional bell peppers, then place them in a separate airtight container.
- Refrigerate the prepped vegetables for up to 24 hours. This keeps their vibrant colors and textures intact, ready to add a satisfying crunch to your seared steak.
- For herbs like oregano, measure out the required amount and store it in a small sealed bag in the fridge to maintain its potent, earthy aroma.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to preserving the freshness and safety of your Dominican Bistec components. Here’s how we handle it:
| Component | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinade | Airtight container in fridge | 24 hours | Stir before using to blend flavors. |
| Marinated Steak | Resealable bag in fridge | 24 hours | Do not exceed to avoid over-marinating and potential bacterial growth. |
| Prepped Vegetables | Airtight container in fridge | 24 hours | Keep away from strong odors to preserve taste. |
When you’re ready to cook, remove the marinated steak from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before searing. This ensures even cooking and maximizes the dish’s succulent, flavorful appeal. Always reheat any pre-cooked elements gently in a skillet over medium heat to retain moisture and vibrancy.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the vibrant world of Dominican Bistec and equipped you with an easy path to its bold flavors. It’s more than a meal—it’s a way to celebrate family and tradition right in your kitchen.
We’re confident you’ll find joy in every bite and perhaps tweak it to suit your tastes. Let’s keep these authentic recipes alive and make every gathering unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dominican Bistec?
Dominican Bistec is a classic steak dish from the Dominican Republic, known for its tender beef marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, onions, and herbs. It’s a staple in Caribbean cuisine that brings families together with its bold, flavorful profile. This hearty meal highlights authentic flavors and is easy to prepare at home.
What ingredients are needed for Dominican Bistec?
The key ingredients include flank steak, garlic, onions, bell peppers, soy sauce, white vinegar, lime juice, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and vegetable oil. These high-quality items enhance the dish’s aromatic depth and bold taste, ensuring an authentic Caribbean flavor in every bite.
How do you make Dominican Bistec?
Start by marinating flank steak with garlic, onions, herbs, and spices for at least an hour. Sear the steak in a skillet until browned, then add the reserved marinade and vegetables, simmering until tender. Cook for about 10-15 minutes total. Serve with lime wedges and sides like rice or tostones for a complete meal.
What kitchen equipment is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a cutting board, chef’s knife, mixing bowl, heavy-bottomed skillet, measuring cups and spoons, and tongs or a spatula. These tools help with prepping, marinating, and cooking the steak efficiently for the best results.
Can I prepare Dominican Bistec ahead of time?
Yes, make the marinade up to 24 hours in advance to let flavors meld. Marinate the steak ahead for tenderness, and prep vegetables early. Store the marinade and marinated steak in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Let the steak reach room temperature before cooking to ensure even results.
How should I store and reheat Dominican Bistec?
Store the marinade or marinated steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For prepped vegetables, use the fridge and consume within a day. Reheat cooked Bistec gently in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture and flavors, avoiding microwaving for the best texture.