As the aroma of caramelizing onions wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a warm rush of nostalgia. One dish that always brings my family together is Beef Morcon—a beloved Filipino classic that’s truly a feast for the senses. This delightful recipe is not only perfect for special occasions but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Wrapped in tender beef and filled with delicious surprises like cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and a touch of smoky bacon, Beef Morcon is a showstopper that’s bound to impress. Plus, the velvety tomato gravy makes every bite a comforting hug. Are you ready to create your own masterpiece? Let’s dive into this festive adventure!
Why is Beef Morcon a must-try?
Tender Beef: This dish features melt-in-your-mouth beef, slow-braised to perfection, creating an irresistible foundation for your festive meal.
Variety of Flavors: Filled with surprises like cheese, bacon, and hard-boiled eggs, each slice reveals a delightful spiral that will keep everyone guessing.
Showstopper Presentation: The vibrant layers and rich tomato-liver gravy make this dish not only a culinary delight but also a feast for the eyes.
Easy to Prepare: Despite its impressive look, Beef Morcon is simple to assemble, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the celebration.
Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s Christmas or a cozy family dinner, serving Beef Morcon turns any occasion into a memorable feast. Check out my Mini Beef Wellington for another impressive dish perfect for gatherings.
Beef Morcon Ingredients
For the Beef Roll
• Beef Bottom Round or Top Round – Provides a tender foundation for the dish when slow-braised; consider top round for slightly less fat.
• Lemon Juice – Tenderizes and adds acidity to the marinade, enhancing the flavor of the beef.
• Soy Sauce – Infuses umami flavors and enhances the marinade for a richer taste.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds seasoning and depth for a balanced flavor.
• Bacon – Provides a smoky flavor and a rich layer inside the beef roll.
For the Filling
• Carrot – Adds sweetness and vibrant color, making the filling more appealing.
• Hotdogs – Contributes a salty, smoky flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
• Gherkin Pickles – Brings tanginess and crunch, balancing the richness of the fillings.
• Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess and a savory element, enriching the overall flavor.
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Introduces richness and a contrasting texture in each slice.
For the Gravy
• All-Purpose Flour – Coats the beef roll to help thicken the gravy, ensuring it’s luscious.
• Cooking Oil – Used for browning the beef before braising, adding extra flavor.
• Large Onion – Provides aromatic flavors to elevate the tomato gravy.
• Garlic – Enhances the aroma, making your kitchen smell divine during cooking.
• Tomato Sauce – Forms the base of the gravy, adding sweetness and richness; an essential step for a flavorful Beef Morcon.
• Beef Broth – Enhances the gravy’s flavor; homemade or store-bought can be used for convenience.
• Bay Leaf – Adds depth of flavor during braising, making your dish more aromatic.
• Liver Spread – Introduces a distinctive richness to the gravy, but can be substituted with tomato paste mixed with butter for a milder taste.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning, ensuring all flavors shine through.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Morcon
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by slicing the beef bottom or top round into thin pieces. In a bowl, combine lemon juice, soy sauce, and ground black pepper. Marinate the beef slices for 30 minutes at room temperature, turning occasionally for even flavor absorption. You’ll know it’s ready when the beef looks darker and slightly brined.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the beef marinates, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until tender but not crispy. Remove the bacon, and in the same skillet, prepare your filling by cutting carrot into strips, hotdogs into halves, and slicing gherkin pickles. Grate the cheddar cheese and chop the hard-boiled eggs, setting all the fillings aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll
Lay the marinated beef slices flat on a clean surface, slightly overlapping each piece. Starting from one end, layer the fillings: bacon, carrots, hotdogs, pickles, cheese, and boiled eggs. Tightly roll the beef from the edge, securing it with kitchen twine to maintain its shape, then coat the entire roll with all-purpose flour for added thickness to the gravy.
Step 4: Brown the Beef
Heat cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the beef roll in the pan, browning it on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step sears in the juices, giving your Beef Morcon a delicious outer layer, making it a visual delight.
Step 5: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Next, pour in the reserved marinade, tomato sauce, beef broth, and add a bay leaf. Stir well to combine, creating a rich base for the gravy.
Step 6: Braise the Beef Roll
Carefully place the browned beef roll back into the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the Beef Morcon braise for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Turn the roll every 20 minutes to ensure even cooking. The beef should be tender and easily pull apart when finished.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Once tender, remove the Beef Morcon from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute. Use a sharp knife to slice into rounds, showcasing the beautiful spiral of filling. Serve hot, generously topped with the savory tomato-liver gravy for a truly festive dish.
How to Store and Freeze Beef Morcon
Fridge: Store leftover Beef Morcon in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth for moisture.
Freezer: Wrap the Beef Morcon tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag, for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the gravy is heated through.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare Beef Morcon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate before baking; then reheat to serve, keeping the flavors intact.
Beef Morcon Customization Ideas
Feel free to get creative with your Beef Morcon, making it uniquely yours!
- Pork Alternative: Substitute the beef with pork loin for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time for tenderness.
- Spicy Twist: Add thin slices of chili peppers to the filling for a zesty kick. This little enhancement packs a punch and excites the palate!
- Vegetarian Option: Use grilled vegetables and tofu in place of meat and fillings for a plant-based morcon that’s hearty and satisfying.
- Smoky Flavor: Swap out bacon for smoked sausage to intensify the savory flavor. This swap introduces a delightful smokiness to the dish.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to add a twist to your morcon filling. The melting qualities of these cheeses can elevate your dish even further!
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the filling for added freshness and aroma. It’s a lovely way to brighten up the flavors of the meat.
- Saucy Boost: Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a deeper flavor profile. The richness of the wine blends beautifully with the tomato-liver gravy.
- Accompaniment Ideas: Serve your Beef Morcon with a side of sweet Filipino-style spaghetti or some steamed rice to soak up all that delicious gravy. You might also enjoy pairing it with this Chilli Beef Spice for an extra kick!
What to Serve with Authentic Filipino Beef Morcon?
Indulging in this culinary treasure invites thoughts of hearty sides that will elevate your table and create a truly festive experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The light, fluffy grains perfectly soak up the rich tomato gravy, balancing the robust flavors of the beef.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture offers comfort, while the subtle creaminess contrasts delightfully with the savory beef roulade.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp-tender and vibrant, these veggies provide a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors of the Morcon.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A medley of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed with vinaigrette, introduces a crisp, tangy note to your meal.
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Pancit Canton: This savory stir-fried noodle dish adds a traditional Filipino flair, with its flavorful mix of vegetables and protein enhancing your feast.
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Pineapple Chunks: Juicy and sweet, this tropical fruit brings a refreshing brightness that offsets the richness of the Beef Morcon beautifully.
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Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these chewy treats are an ideal sweet finish, featuring the warm, comforting notes of coconut that resonate with your festive meal.
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Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine enhances the experience, perfectly matching the umami notes of the savory Beef Morcon while adding an elegant touch to your celebration.
Tips for the Best Beef Morcon
• Select Quality Beef: Choose beef with good marbling for optimal tenderness and flavor. Avoid lean cuts that may dry out during cooking.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature to ensure deep flavor absorption. Longer marination will enhance the overall taste.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When browning the beef roll, give it enough space in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which affects texture.
• Control Gravy Thickness: Don’t skip the flour coating; it thickens the gravy beautifully. Adjust broth quantity if you prefer a thicker or thinner sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allow the Beef Morcon to rest before slicing. This step helps retain the juices, making each slice moist and flavorful.
Make Ahead Options
Beef Morcon is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing busy cooks to savor its rich flavors without the time crunch! You can marinate the beef and prepare the fillings up to 24 hours in advance; just keep everything refrigerated in separate airtight containers. To maintain quality, ensure the beef is tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When it’s time to serve, simply assemble and brown the beef as instructed, then follow through with braising and resting as usual. The end result will be just as delicious and tender, making your festive gathering a breeze!
Beef Morcon Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Beef Morcon?
For Beef Morcon, I recommend using either beef bottom round or top round. These cuts are ideal due to their tenderness after slow-braising. If you’re looking for something with less fat, opt for top round. Look for cuts with a bit of marbling, as this adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy.
How should I store leftover Beef Morcon?
Simply place any leftover Beef Morcon in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I freeze Beef Morcon?
Absolutely! Wrap the Beef Morcon securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on low heat.
How do I ensure my Beef Morcon cooks evenly?
To ensure your Beef Morcon cooks evenly, it’s essential to turn the roll every 20 minutes during the braising phase. This will help distribute the heat and ensure that the meat remains tender throughout. Remember to cover the pan to maintain moisture and flavor.
Is there a substitute for liver spread in the gravy?
If you’re not keen on liver spread, you can replace it with a mixture of tomato paste and butter. This alternative still provides a rich flavor but is milder. Just combine two tablespoons of tomato paste with one tablespoon of butter to mimic the creaminess that liver spread offers.
Can dogs eat Beef Morcon?
While it may be tempting to share this delicious dish with your furry friend, it’s best to avoid giving them Beef Morcon. The ingredients such as onions, garlic, and high-fat content may not be safe for dogs. Instead, save a small piece of plain cooked beef for them!
Juicy Beef Morcon: Filipino Festive Rolled Delight to Celebrate
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the beef into thin pieces and marinate with lemon juice, soy sauce, and ground black pepper for 30 minutes.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet until tender, then prepare the filling ingredients.
- Lay marinated beef slices, layer fillings, and roll tightly securing with kitchen twine. Coat with all-purpose flour.
- Brown the beef roll in heated cooking oil on all sides for 2-3 minutes until golden.
- Sauté onion and garlic in the same skillet, adding the marinade, tomato sauce, beef broth, and bay leaf.
- Braise the beef roll on low heat for 1 hour and 20 minutes, turning every 20 minutes.
- Let the Beef Morcon rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve with gravy.