Sabana de Res Recipe
Sabana de Res, or Venezuelan-style Flattened Steak, is a classic dish from the heart of South America. This simple yet delicious recipe brings out the best in the beef, with the flavors of garlic and lime permeating each bite.
It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Sabana de Res, or Colombian Style Flattened Steak, is a traditional Latin American dish that is both simple and delicious.
The steak is marinated in a flavorful mix of beer, garlic, and cumin, then pounded thin and quickly seared to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy steak with a rich, savory flavor that is truly irresistible.
This dish is versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, plantains, or a fresh salad. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
The best part is that it’s easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or complicated cooking techniques.
Sabana de Res Recipe

Sabana de Res, or Colombian Style Flattened Steak, is a traditional Latin American dish that is both simple and delicious. The steak is marinated in a flavorful mix of beer, garlic, and cumin, then pounded thin and quickly seared to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy steak with a rich, savory flavor that is truly irresistible.
Type: Main Dish
Cuisine: Latin American
Keywords: Sabana De Res Recipe, Colombian Style Flattened Steak,
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 934 kcal
Preparation Time: PT10M
Cooking Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Recipe Ingredients:
- 12 oz beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp ancho chili pepper, ground
- 1 tsp of kosher salt
- 1 cup red sweet pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato salsa
- 1/4 cup Mexican beer or any beer
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Recipe Instructions:
1. Begin by heating a tablespoon of oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
2. Add the sirloin beef steak and sear for a minute. Sprinkle the freshly ground Ancho chili pepper and kosher salt.
3.Cook the beef thoroughly, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, pour in another tablespoon of vegetable oil and sauté the onions for a minute.
5. Introduce the minced garlic and red sweet pepper into the mix. Cook until the ingredients are tender and the onions are nearly transparent.
6. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté further.
7. Slowly pour the beer into the mixture while stirring constantly. Follow this with the tomato salsa and chicken broth, and stir well until combined. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes.
8. Stir the mixture, letting it cook until the liquid has reduced by half, creating a sauce-like consistency.
9. Gradually introduce butter to the pan while stirring, ensuring it fully dissolves into the sauce.
10. Reintroduce the cooked beef to the skillet, thoroughly coating it in the sauce.
11. Allow the dish to simmer for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
12. Top the dish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
13. That's it, time to enjoy
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Pro Tip: Serve this hearty and flavorful Sabana de Res with cooked Mexican red rice, and don’t forget to squeeze a bit of fresh lemon or lime over the dish before serving.
So why not bring a taste of Colombia to your kitchen with this Sabana de Res recipe?
Now, let’s get to the Sabana de Res recipe.
Ingredients Required for Sabana de Res Recipe:
- 12 oz beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp ancho chili pepper, ground
- 1 tsp of kosher salt
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup red sweet pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato salsa
- 1/4 cup Mexican beer or any beer
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 16 minutes (plus marinating time)
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
the choice of beer can impact the taste, and I recommend using a full-bodied beer. As for the sides, traditionally, this dish is served with rice and plantains, but you’re welcome to experiment and let us know your results.
This citrusy twist will brighten the flavors and add an exciting zing to your meal.
Some Facts about Sabana de Res:
- Sabana de Res is a popular dish in Colombia, especially in the region of Antioquia.
- The name “Sabana de Res” translates to “beef savannah“, referring to the flat, wide appearance of the steak.
- It’s traditionally served with sides like rice, plantains, and a salad, making it a balanced, nutritious meal.
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What To Serve With Sabana De Res?
While Sabana De Res is indeed a fulfilling meal on its own, it’s always a delight to pair it with some complementary side dishes to enhance the overall dining experience.
Beans, rice, or tortillas would be a traditional Mexican choice, of course.
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Is Sabana De Res Gluten-Free?
Yes, Sabana De Res is a naturally gluten-free dish.
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Why does Mexican beef taste different?
Why does Mexican beef taste different?
Mexican beef typically has a different flavor due to the use of different spices and seasonings.Mexican cuisine often incorporates spices such as cumin, oregano, chili powder, and garlic, which give the beef its distinct flavor. Additionally,
Mexican beef is typically cooked with a variety of vegetables, such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes, which can also contribute to its unique flavor.
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What are the 3 main ingredients when marinating?
1. Acid (vinegar, citrus juice, wine, etc.)
2. Oil (olive, vegetable, etc.)
3. Seasonings (garlic, herbs, spices, etc.)