Experience the irresistible flavors of Onion Smothered Steak, or Bife a Cebolada, a classic Portuguese recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Tender beef steaks are perfectly seasoned with paprika and pan-seared to create a golden crust before being simmered in a rich, caramelized onion sauce infused with garlic, white wine, and aromatic bay leaves. This comforting dish is slow-cooked to ensure the steaks absorb every bit of the savory broth, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Garnished with vibrant parsley and served alongside rice, boiled potatoes, or crusty bread, this hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Simple yet packed with robust flavors, Onion Smothered Steak is a true showcase of Portuguese culinary tradition.
Season the beef steaks with salt, black pepper, and paprika on both sides. Set aside.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steaks for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet.
Add the sliced onions and bay leaves, cooking them gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the white wine and deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 2-3 minutes to let the wine reduce slightly.
Add the beef broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
Return the steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the onion mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the steaks are tender and infused with the onion sauce.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Transfer the steaks and onion sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve immediately with rice, boiled potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Calories |
2542 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 147.2 g | 189% | |
| Saturated Fat | 52.7 g | 264% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 662 mg | 221% | |
| Sodium | 3278 mg | 143% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.3 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 9.1 g | 32% | |
| Total Sugars | 21.8 g | ||
| Protein | 223.8 g | 448% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 201 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 23.0 mg | 128% | |
| Potassium | 3484 mg | 74% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.