Syrian Jewish-inspired Tapa

Ingredients

In this Syrian Jewish-inspired version of Tapa, we incorporate the flavors and spices commonly found in Syrian Jewish cuisine. The original Filipino Tapa typically uses soy sauce and vinegar as the base for the marinade, while this adaptation incorporates warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. Additionally, the traditional Filipino Tapa is often served with garlic fried rice, while this version is accompanied by pickled vegetables and tahini sauce, which are commonly found in Syrian Jewish cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Tapa (Philippines), so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Pickled vegetables, for serving Pickled vegetables, for serving
• Tahini sauce, for serving Tahini sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring that each slice is coated evenly. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated beef slices in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
4. 4.
   Cook the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. 5.
   Remove the cooked beef from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. 6.
   Serve the Syrian Jewish-inspired Tapa with pickled vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce. Enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef sirloin — For the best results, choose a tender cut of beef like sirloin. Make sure to slice it thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
• If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of cumin and coriander in the marinade.
• Serve the Tapa with warm pita bread or flatbread for a delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Syrian Jewish-inspired Tapa as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be enjoyed as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Presentation advice

Arrange the thinly sliced beef on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro. Serve the pickled vegetables and tahini sauce in separate bowls for guests to add according to their preference.