Entree: Panama – Bistec Picado (Panamanian chopped or thinly sliced beef sautéed with onions, peppers, and tomatoes)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 20 min

Total 40 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (454 g) flank or skirt steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, about 6 oz (170 g), thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, about 6 oz (170 g), seeded and sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, about 6 oz (170 g), seeded and sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes, about 10 oz (280 g), chopped
- 3 cloves garlic (about 9 g), minced
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp (2 g) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (1 g) dried oregano
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce or salsa inglesa
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp (5 g) kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil for finishing (optional)

Instructions

1. Pat the steak dry and season with 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) salt, 1/4 tsp (0.5 g) pepper, and 1/2 tsp (1 g) cumin. Heat 1 tbsp (15 ml) vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the steak in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear 1–2 minutes per side until browned but still tender; remove to a plate and keep warm.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 1 tbsp (15 ml) oil to the skillet. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers and sauté 4–6 minutes until softened and starting to brown.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Add chopped tomatoes, remaining 1/2 tsp (1 g) cumin, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tsp (5 g) salt; cook 3–4 minutes until tomatoes break down slightly.
5. Return the seared steak and any accumulated juices to the pan; toss to combine and cook 1–2 minutes to heat through and meld flavors. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. If desired, drizzle 1 tbsp (15 ml) oil over the finished dish for sheen and richness. Serve immediately with white rice, fried plantains, or warm tortillas.