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Vegan Bistek Tagalog

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This vegan Bistek Tagalog is a comforting, plant-based spin on a beloved Filipino favorite. Juicy meatless beef slices are simmered in a rich blend of soy sauce, lemon juice, and coconut sugar, then tossed with caramelized onion rings. Serve it over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. The dish comes together quickly using simple ingredients like vegan broth, imitation beef, garlic, and fresh citrus. Whether using plant-based strips or tofu, it delivers bold flavor and nostalgic warmth in every bite.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:20:45 GMT
A bowl of beef stew with onions and green peppers. Bookmark
A bowl of beef stew with onions and green peppers. | ioanacooks.com

Vegan Bistek Tagalog is a hearty and savory Filipino classic turned fully plant-based. Imitation beef is simmered with tangy citrus and rich soy sauce then blanketed with golden sautéed onions. This dish is satisfying served with hot rice and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

This was one of the first Filipino vegan recipes I nailed. I still remember how excited my partner was to taste a childhood favorite reimagined without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

  • Imitation beef slices or tofu: for a tender and juicy meat alternative use quality rehydrated slices or pressed tofu
  • White and yellow onions: build deep flavor and give a soft sweet bite in every spoonful
  • Garlic: finely minced to infuse aroma through the sauce
  • Soy sauce: choose low sodium to keep it balanced
  • Vegan beef broth: better than bouillon or cube based broth brings real depth
  • Lemon juice: fresh preferred for brightness calamansi or lime work too
  • Coconut sugar: rounds out acidity and saltiness
  • Cornstarch: thickens the sauce to coat everything beautifully
  • Dark soy sauce: optional for richer color and deeper taste
  • Black pepper: adds that sharp finish
  • Green onion and white rice: simple garnishes and serving companions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Aromatics:
Heat two tablespoons of oil in a large wok over medium high heat. Sauté the diced white onion and garlic for around five minutes until soft and translucent which creates a sweet aromatic base.
Cook the Protein:
Add rehydrated imitation beef or tofu slices to the pan. Stir and cook for five to seven minutes until slightly crisp on the edges and thoroughly heated.
Simmer with Sauce:
Pour in soy sauce vegan broth lemon juice and coconut sugar. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and black pepper. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer then reduce the heat. Allow to cook for fifteen minutes until thick and glossy.
Stir-Fry Onion Rings:
In a separate skillet heat the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced yellow onions and cook stirring for four to six minutes until slightly tender but still holding shape.
Combine and Finish:
Transfer the sautéed onion rings to the main pan. Toss well to coat with sauce. Serve hot with white rice and garnish with chopped green onion.
A bowl of beef and onions. Bookmark
A bowl of beef and onions. | ioanacooks.com

When I first made this I was testing different vegan beef options and found soy curls really worked best for soaking in all the tangy citrus soy flavor. We now make this once a month for Sunday dinners.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have dark soy sauce regular soy sauce works fine. Calamansi juice is traditional but fresh lemon or lime is a solid substitute. For a gluten free version use tamari and ensure your broth base is gluten free.

Serving Suggestions

Always serve with plain steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed vegetables like bok choy or long beans balances the richness.

A dish of beef with onions and green onions. Bookmark
A dish of beef with onions and green onions. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Bistek Tagalog is traditionally a Filipino beefsteak cooked with soy sauce and citrus and lots of onions. This vegan version honors the same comforting flavors in a compassionate and healthier way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu instead of imitation beef?

Yes, extra firm tofu is a great alternative. Press and crisp it before simmering for best texture.

→ What citrus can replace calamansi?

You can use lemon or lime juice as a substitute for calamansi. Adjust to taste for the right tanginess.

→ What is dark soy sauce used for?

Dark soy sauce adds deeper color and mild sweetness. It's optional and can be replaced with seasoning sauce.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of onions and beef.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be if you use gluten-free soy sauce and check your meat substitute for gluten content.

Vegan Bistek Tagalog

Vegan Filipino bistek with tangy soy sauce, tender meatless slices, and lots of sautéed onions.

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
25 minutes
Overall Time
40 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: Filipino

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (4 portions)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan Safe, Made for Vegetarians, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
Ingredient 02 1 small white onion, diced
Ingredient 03 12 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient 04 200 grams imitation beef slices, rehydrated according to package directions
Ingredient 05 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
Ingredient 06 1 cup vegan beef broth
Ingredient 07 1/2 cup lemon juice
Ingredient 08 3 tablespoons coconut sugar
Ingredient 09 4 teaspoons cornstarch mixed with 4 teaspoons water
Ingredient 10 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
Ingredient 11 1 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Ingredient 12 1 large yellow onion, sliced into rings
Ingredient 13 White rice, for serving
Ingredient 14 Chopped green onion, optional for garnish

→ Alternative Option

Ingredient 15 1 package (16 oz) extra firm tofu, pressed and thinly sliced or cubed

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until onion is translucent. Add rehydrated imitation beef and sauté until heated through and edges are slightly crisp.

Step 02

Add soy sauce, vegan beef broth, lemon juice, coconut sugar, cornstarch slurry, dark soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until sauce thickens and reduces by half.

Step 03

In a separate pan, heat remaining tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add onion rings and cook until slightly tender but not too soft.

Step 04

Transfer stir-fried onion rings into the main pan and toss to combine with sauce and protein. Serve immediately with rice and garnish with green onions if desired.

Step 05

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook without stirring until crisp, about 4-5 minutes per side. Continue with same steps as imitation beef, starting with sautéing onion and garlic.

Extra Tips

  1. Use calamansi juice if available for a more authentic flavor.
  2. Soy curls or chunks can substitute imitation beef if preferred.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large wok or sauté pan
  • Medium sauté pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains soy

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 320
  • Total Fat: 18 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 24 grams
  • Protein Amount: 12 grams