Beef Morcon: A Classic Filipino Dish
Beef Morcon: A Classic Filipino Dish
Contents
Beef Morcon is a traditional Filipino dish often served during holidays and special occasions. It consists of thinly sliced beef rolled around a filling of sausages, hard-boiled eggs, pickles, carrots, and cheese, then braised in a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is a labor of love, showcasing layers of flavors and textures.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef flank steak or top sirloin, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 4 beef franks or sausages, sliced lengthwise
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
- 1 medium carrot, cut into sticks
- 3-4 pickles or gherkins, sliced lengthwise
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Beef: Combine soy sauce and garlic powder in a bowl. Add the beef slices and marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Lay a marinated beef slice flat on a surface. Place a sausage, pickle stick, carrot stick, and egg wedge on one end of the beef slice. Roll the beef tightly and secure with kitchen twine. Repeat for all beef slices.
- Dredge the Rolls: Lightly coat each beef roll in flour.
- Sear the Rolls: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the beef rolls until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer the Rolls: Return the beef rolls to the pan. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until the beef is tender.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the twine, slice the rolls into rounds, and serve with the sauce.
Tips
- Use flank steak or sirloin for the best results.
- Ensure the beef rolls are tied securely to prevent unraveling during cooking.
- Add liver spread or grated cheese to thicken the sauce if desired.
FAQ
What is Beef Morcon?
Beef Morcon is a Filipino dish made with rolled beef stuffed with sausages, eggs, pickles, and carrots, braised in a tomato-based sauce.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken morcon is a variation, though beef is the traditional choice.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, Beef Morcon can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.
Related guides
- The Complete Guide to Beef Caldereta (Kalderetang Baka)
- Beef Giniling: A Classic Filipino Ground Beef Recipe
- Beef Mechado: A Classic Filipino Tomato-Based Beef Stew Recipe
- Beef Nilaga: A Filipino Comfort Soup
- Beef Pares: The Ultimate Filipino Braised Beef Recipe