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Bistec de Palomilla

Ah bistec de palomilla. For those who are not familiar with this drool-inducing dish, it is a classic Cuban dish that consists of tender beefsteak pounded thin, seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, and then flash fried in butter or oil. Topping this off is a garlicky tomato sauce and, sometimes, a dollop of crema. What can I say? Tasting it is truly an incomparable experience; one that is sure to tantalize even the most discerning of palates.

Bistec de Palomilla


As they say, the devil is in the details, which is undeniably true when it comes to bistec de palomilla. To start, it is all about the cut of beef; ideally, it should be a thinner cut such as flank steak, sirloin, or even top round steak. Pounding the steak thinly will tenderize it and help trap the flavor. Then, a quick marinade of garlic, olive oil, and preferably, lime juice will add an extra layer of depth. Topping this off with a generous sprinkling of salt and pepper will help ensure each bite is anything but bland.

The next crucial step is frying the steak. It's important to get the skillet nice and hot, then quickly flash fry the steak until golden brown. Again, it's essential to keep an eye on the heat to ensure that the steak doesn't get overdone and tough. After it's done, lower the heat and add the tomato sauce to simmer for a few minutes; this creates a silky texture that coats the steak perfectly. Stir in a spoonful of crema at the end for an added creaminess.

Once this dish has been cooked to perfection, it's time to serve. Bistec de Palomilla pairs wonderfully with warm white rice and a side of black beans. Perhaps sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro over the top, just before serving. The result? An unparalleled feast that is sure to leave you salivating over every morsel.

So to all you foodies out there, don't let bistec de palomilla pass you by. If you haven't tried it yet, go out and give it a go! One bite and you'll never look back!

The origin of Bistec de Palomilla

Ah, Bistec de Palomilla. For all of you who haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing this delicious Cuban culinary delight, let me tell you a bit more about it!

Originating in the early 1800s in Havana, Bistec de Palomilla is typically a thin, tenderized steak typically made with either beef or veal and is accompanied by sweet onions and a garlic and lime marinade. While the exact origins of the dish remain unknown, there are a few theories about how it first came to be.

Some believe that the dish was derived from a traditional Spanish dish called “Pluma de Ternera”, which translates to “veal feather” and is a thinly-sliced pluma or cut of veal. This could explain why Bistec de Palomilla is usually prepared with veal or beef, as it follows in the same tradition. It is thought that the Cuban version of the dish made its way to the United States in the aftermath of the Cuban Revolution and spread throughout the country.

While theories abound, one thing is certain: Bistec de Palomilla is a delightful, savory dish that has been delighting tongues for centuries. Whether served up in traditional Cuban restaurants in Miami or Puerto Rico, or served up as part of a backyard BBQ, Bistec de Palomilla is sure to bring joy and satisfaction to any palate. With its tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors, the simplicity of preparing it and the time-honored traditions behind it, Bistec de Palomilla is sure to captivate the taste buds wherever it is served.

FAQs about Bistec de Palomilla

Is Palomilla steak tough?

Palomilla steak is usually not very tough. It is a thin cut steak so it can be tender and easy to chew. The meat has a good flavor, but it does not have much fat or marbling, so it can be tough if cooked for too long or at too high of a heat.


What cut of meat is a palomilla steak?

A palomilla steak is a thin cut of meat, usually taken from the top sirloin. It is popular in Latin American cooking and is often served with chimichurri sauce.


What is Palomilla steak called in English?

Palomilla steak is called a cubed steak in English.


What type of steak is bistec?

Bistec is a Spanish term for steak. It can refer to any type of steak, such as sirloin, ribeye, filet mignon, etc.


Types of Bistec de Palomilla

The dish Bistec de Palomilla is a veritable tour de force of Cuban cuisine. It's no wonder why it's become a staple of the Latin American kitchen for decades, getting its name from the Spanish word for “flat steak”. It's a simple yet hearty combination of steak, onions, and spices, plus a bit of oil and a splash of lime juice or wine.

One of the most popular preparations of the dish is the classic palomilla steak, which is a thin cut of beef pounded flat and pan seared until golden brown and tender. The steak is usually marinated in garlic, oregano, and lemon or lime juice prior to cooking, giving it an extra burst of flavor. A generous scoop of chopped onion is added for a touch of sweetness and piquancy.

If you're looking for something a little more indulgent, Bistec de Palomilla can also be prepared with a creamy salsa Picante sauce. This cooked sauce includes shallots, garlic, tomato paste, chili powder, and cumin, making it a great complement to the richness of the steak. The steaks are typically served with white rice and black beans, creating a complete Cuban meal.

For an even bolder flavor profile, a Bistec de Palomilla can also be made with a spicy-sweet mojo sauce. This delectable sauce is made with orange juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, and olive oil, and is usually poured over the steak while it cooks. The warm and fragrant flavors of the mojo pair wonderfully with the savory steak, and it's an easy way to elevate this classic Cuban dish.

However you choose to prepare it, Bistec de Palomilla is an undeniably delicious and nutritious meal. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and spices, it's perfect for those seeking an adventurous way to spruce up their dinner table. Whether you opt for the classic preparation, salsa Picante sauce, or mojo sauce, you're sure to savor every bite!