Beef%20steak%20with%20garlic%20butter
All Foods • Malaysia
How to Make Beef Steak with Garlic Butter (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Beef steak with garlic butter is a beloved dish in Malaysia, blending robust local flavors with the multicultural heritage that defines Malaysian cuisine. This dish features juicy, lean beef steak seared to perfection, then topped with a fragrant garlic butter infused with local herbs like daun limau purut (kaffir lime leaf) and serai (lemongrass). The result is a tender steak with an aromatic, slightly citrusy finish, making it a favorite snack or light meal among Malaysians. While steak is often associated with Western dining, Malaysian cooks have embraced it by incorporating local ingredients and techniques. Garlic butter, made with high-quality butter, fresh garlic, and hints of pandan or lemongrass, elevates the dish while keeping it light and nutritious. Served with a side of crisp salad or ulam, this beef steak is perfect for those seeking a satisfying, protein-rich meal without excess calories. It's a testament to Malaysia's ability to adapt global favorites into the local culinary landscape, always with a health-conscious twist.
Ingredients(for 1 medium steak (approx. 120g) with garlic butter and side salad)
- 2 x 120g Lean beef steak (sirloin or tenderloin)
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt (garam laut)
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper (lada hitam)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (minyak zaitun)
- 1 tbsp Butter (unsalted, high-quality)
- 3 cloves Garlic (finely minced, bawang putih)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (serai, finely chopped) - optional
- 1 leaf Kaffir lime leaf (daun limau purut, finely sliced) - optional
- 1 small leaf Pandan leaf (for aroma, optional) - optional
- 1 cup Fresh salad greens (ulam or mixed greens)
Instructions
- 1
Pat the beef steak dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
2 minutes
Proper seasoning helps lock in juices and enhances flavor.
- 2
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes each side for medium-rare, or longer as desired.
8 minutes
Do not move the steak while searing to get a good crust.
- 3
While the steak cooks, in a separate small pan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, and pandan leaf. Sauté until fragrant but not browned.
3 minutes
Use low heat to avoid burning the garlic and herbs.
- 4
Once the steak is done, remove from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
5 minutes
Resting ensures a juicier steak.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Malaysian beef steak is a healthy choice because it uses lean cuts of beef, minimal added fat, and incorporates herbs and spices for flavor instead of heavy sauces. The inclusion of fresh ulam or salad greens boosts fiber and micronutrient intake, supporting weight management and overall wellbeing. The recipe avoids deep-frying and uses heart-healthy olive oil in place of traditional saturated fats.
This beef steak with garlic butter provides a high-protein meal with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Lean beef is low in saturated fat, and the use of olive oil and moderate butter keeps it heart-friendly. Lemongrass and kaffir lime leaf add antioxidants and aid digestion, while the salad greens supply dietary fiber, vitamin C, and plant phytonutrients. The dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and can fit into balanced diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Let the steak come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
- 💡Use a meat thermometer for perfect results: 55-60°C for medium-rare.
- 💡Add a squeeze of limau nipis (local lime) before serving for extra freshness.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan to retain juiciness. Garlic butter can be kept separately and reheated as needed.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 250.0 kcal |
| Protein | 24.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.5 g |
| Total Fat | 18.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 0.1 g |
| Iron | 2.6 mg |
| Calcium | 18.0 mg |
