Filipino Beef Tapa

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade
   In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, calamansi or lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and vinegar. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Marinate the beef
   Add the thinly sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
3. Cook the beef tapa
   Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until caramelized and slightly crispy around the edges.
4. Create the sauce
   Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This will be served as a dipping sauce for the beef.
5. Fry the eggs
   In a separate pan, fry eggs sunny side up until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Assemble the tapsilog
   On each plate, place a portion of garlic rice, several slices of beef tapa, and a fried egg. Add sliced tomatoes on the side and serve with the reduced marinade sauce.