• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Savory Thoughts
  • Home
  • About
    • Privacy Policy
  • Recipes
    • Main Dishes
    • Breakfast
    • Side Dishes
    • Vegetarian
    • Sweets
    • Drinks and Cocktails
    • Seafood
    • Soups and Stews
    • Vitamix
    • Haitian
    • Instant Pot
    • Air Fryer
  • Shop
  • Contact
  • Navigation Menu: Social Icons

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Quick Easy & Delicious Haitian Recipes
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • LinkedIn
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Haitian Food » Haitian Tasso

    Haitian Tasso

    Posted On February 13, 2022 By Mirlene Last updated March 25, 2022 28 Comments

    • Pin
    • Share
    • Yummly
    • Mix
    • Flipboard
    Jump to Recipe
    Steak bites on wooden board with herbs and peppers

    This Haitian Tasso recipe uses just a few ingredients, and with a lightning-fast cook time, they are a great high protein option that everyone will enjoy. Tender on the inside and crisp on the outside, these steak bites are cooked to perfection and is ready in no time!

    Tasso on wooden board with epis and pikliz
     

    STEAK

    Haitian Tasso is quick and easy to prepare which makes them one of the ultimate party dish.

    Starting with the right cut of meat, you want to make sure you are using a cut of beef that works well with fast cooking, such as sirloin, rump or fillet. If using the instant pot, opt in for a suitable fattier meat like the tender chuck roast.

    Other cuts that are intended for stewing have a higher collagen content which takes a long time to break down and will come out tough and chewy if you try to cook them in the air fryer.

    In Haiti, it is not uncommon to find vendors, especially at night making these steak bites. They are usually served with of course fried plantains, fried sweet potatoes, and pikliz (pickled coleslaw), and a cold drink!

    Steak bites on wooden board with herbs and peppers

    In this Haitian Tasso recipe, we used chuck roast as this cut is fattier. With the help of the instant pot, we were able to tenderize the meat in about 20 minutes.

    SEASONING

    As steak is so flavorful on its own, it doesn’t need much in the way of seasonings to bring out its deliciousness. 

    Learn to make Haitian Epis as it is used as the base for almost all Haitian recipes. It is a perfect blend of fresh natural herbs, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and peppers.

    Lightly season the meat with the Haitian Epis, salt and pepper to taste if desired, and allow to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes but best overnight.

    How To Make It

    There are two ways to make this recipe. However, both requires you start by cleaning the meat thoroughly.

    Cut the meat into large cubes and we recommend using vinegar to clean the meat. You can also use lemon, limes, or sour oranges to clean the meat.

    Coming from a hot Caribbean country, bacteria tend to flow around much more. So, to avoid any food born illnesses, we often wash our meats and vegetables with vinegar and or lemon/lime.

    Next, season the meat with the epis and salt to taste, if desired, and let it marinate.

    Cooking Option One: If using beef cubes….

    Afterward, pan-fry the beef cubes meat until golden brown on all sides and cook according to your level of satisfaction in a heated skillet.

    Be mindful the meat may not be as tender. With the skillet option, opt in for a good quality meat.

    Savory Thoughts - Haitian Tasso (Steak Bites, Fried Beef Tips, Beef Bites). Haitian Tasso is famous in Haiti. In other parts of the world they are called steak bites, fried beef tips, or beef bites. I call them mouthwatering! Not to mention they are gluten-free!

    Cooking Option Two: Instant Pot Steak Bites

    Option two includes cooking your steak bites in the instant pot. This will make your Haitian Tasso very tender.

    For this option, opt in for the chuck roast tender cut. Cut and wash the meat.

    Place the meat along with the seasoning base (epis), and lightly season with salt (if desired) in the instant pot.

    Allow the meat to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but best overnight.

    Cook the meat for 20 minutes. Then deep fry to golden brown.

    Adding Finishing Touches

    Once the meat has browned on all sides, place the meat in a large bowl. At this point I like to dress the meat with the liquid from the instant pot and finish it off with pepper slices.

    To do this….

    1. Take ¼ cup of the sauce from the instant pot. Add more for larger quantity.
    2. Slice the bell peppers
    3. Slice one small onion
    4. Add the Ingredients to the meat and mix well. This will keep the meat moist and soft.
    5. Feel free to also sprinkle red pepper flakes to the meat for extra heat.

    Serve with Pikliz and enjoy!

    Air Fry Tasso Instead Of Deep Fry

    You can absolutely make this Haitian Tasso in the air fryer. Cook meat in the instant pot as recommended, then transfer the meat in the air fryer for about 6-8 minutes at 400 degrees or until the meat has browned.

    How To Store & Reheat

    For any leftovers, allow your Haitian Tasso or steak bites to cool before transferring them to an airtight container and putting them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to 3 days.

    Simply reheat in the microwave when ready to eat.

    It warms our hearts to see the recipes you make from this site, and we’d especially would love to know if you tried this recipe.

    Tag us on Instagram or Facebook so we can see your beautiful dish.

    Also, we would appreciate if could give it a star rating below!

    Steak bites on wooden board with herbs and peppers

    Haitian Tasso (Steak Bites, Fried Beef Tips, Beef Bites)

    Savory Thoughts
    Haitian Tasso is famous in Haiti. In other parts of the world, they are called steak bites, fried beef tips, or beef bites. I call them mouthwatering! Not to mention they are gluten-free!
    5 from 16 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 mins
    Cook Time 30 mins
    Total Time 45 mins
    Course Appetizer, Main Dish, Side Dish, Sides
    Cuisine American, Haitian
    Servings 4 People
    Calories 395 kcal

    Equipment

    • Instant Pot
    • Deep fryer

    Ingredients
      

    Chuck Tender Roast Option

    • 2.49 Lb. Chuck tender Roast Cut into large cubes and washed
    • 1 Cup Haitian Epis
    • Juice From 1 Lemon
    • 2 Tsp. Kosher Salt Optional; For extra flavor

    Sirloin Steak Option

    • 1 lb pound sirloin steak or pre-cut beef tips
    • salt and pepper to taste
    • 3 tbsp olive oil
    • 3 cloves garlic minced
    • 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • ¼ cup red onions chopped
    • parsley (optional) for garnish

    Instructions
     

    Chuck Tender Roast Option – Instant Pot & Deep Fryer Version

    • Cute meat into cubes and wash the meat. 
      Place the meat along with the seasoning base (epis), and lightly season with salt (if desired) and lemon juice in the instant pot. 
      Allow the meat to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, but best overnight. 
      Cook the meat for 20 minutes in the instant pot by pressing meat/stew and adjust the time to 20. Seal and cook.
      Step-by-step guide Tasso
    • When the meat has cooked, quick release.
      Heat 1 quart (about 4 cups) Vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large skillet.
      Then deep fry to golden brown at 350°F. This process take about 2-4 minutes per small batch.
      Place the meat in a large bowl and garnish. See notes below for adding finishing touches.
      Steak bites on wooden board with herbs and peppers

    Sirloin Cooking Option – Skillet Version

    • Cut and wash the meat. Set aside.
      Place the meat in the pan in a single layer. It will sizzle loudly when it first touches the pan. Drain any excess fluid. 
      Savory Thoughts - Haitian Tasso (Steak Bites, Fried Beef Tips, Beef Bites). Haitian Tasso is famous in Haiti. In other parts of the world they are called steak bites, fried beef tips, or beef bites. I call them mouthwatering! Not to mention they are gluten-free!
    • Start turning the meat when it is brown on one side. Add all of the ingredients and stirring in between. Cook the meat until brown on all. Cook the steak to your liking. Should be at a minimum of 3 minutes per side, and a little more for well done.
      Savory Thoughts - Haitian Tasso (Steak Bites, Fried Beef Tips, Beef Bites). Haitian Tasso is famous in Haiti. In other parts of the world they are called steak bites, fried beef tips, or beef bites. I call them mouthwatering! Not to mention they are gluten-free!

    Video

    Notes

    Adding the finishing touches: 
    To do this….
    1. Take ¼ cup of the sauce from the instant pot. Add more for larger quantity.
    2. Slice the bell peppers
    3. Slice one small onion
    4. Add the Ingredients to the meat and mix well. This will keep the meat moist and soft.
    5. Feel free to also sprinkle red pepper flakes to the meat for extra heat.
    Serve with Pikliz and enjoy!
     
    **** When printing the recipe, please unselect the camera so that the pictures are NOT printed with the recipe (if preferred).
     
     
    Calories are estimated per serving.
     
     
     
    Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. See our full Privacy Policy. We may receive compensation by clicking on the links and or making a purchase.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 4PeopleCalories: 395kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 16gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 719mgPotassium: 21mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 1.7mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2.7mg
    Making this recipe?Mention @MSavoryThoughts or tag #SavoryThoughts!
    Tried this recipe?Mention @SavoryThoughts or tag #SavoryThoughts!
    « Plantain Bread
    Beef Noodle Soup »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Karyl Henry

      November 30, 2018 at 1:07 pm

      5 stars
      My goodness these steak bites look amazing! Such a simple recipe, but with wonderful flavors. I love fried plantains too, so this dish is right up my alley

      Reply
    2. Kari - Get Inspired Everyday!

      November 26, 2018 at 10:40 pm

      5 stars
      These looks so good, and that chimichurri + tostones along with these steak bites would be amazing!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 27, 2018 at 2:57 am

        Yes, Definitely. Thank you!

        Reply
    3. Christina Shoemaker

      November 26, 2018 at 1:26 pm

      5 stars
      These look perfect! Love the simple ingredient list too!! Yum yum yum!!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 27, 2018 at 3:00 am

        Thank you, Christina!

        Reply
    4. Carol Little R.H. @studiobotanica

      November 26, 2018 at 4:12 am

      5 stars
      Looks delicious = EASY too.
      Thanks for sharing this recipe. It’s a new one for me>
      Small bites !

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 27, 2018 at 3:01 am

        Thank you, Carol!

        Reply
    5. Laura Duffy

      November 25, 2018 at 3:40 pm

      5 stars
      I love how simple flavors can be so delicious. This sounds fantastic!

      Reply
    6. Lindsey Dietz

      November 25, 2018 at 2:51 pm

      5 stars
      This looks and sounds SO delicious! I’ve never heard of it, but I can’t wait to try this recipe!

      Reply
    7. Tina

      November 23, 2018 at 12:27 pm

      5 stars
      I never knew about washing meat in vinegar. Interesting idea and thanks for sharing.

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 29, 2018 at 1:09 am

        You’re welcome! It’s just a little something I learned while growing up in Haiti. It has stuck with me.

        Reply
    8. ChihYu

      November 22, 2018 at 4:16 am

      5 stars
      they look so good! I bet they make the best party dish to share with friends, too!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 29, 2018 at 1:09 am

        Thank you!

        Reply
    9. jennifer

      November 22, 2018 at 1:37 am

      5 stars
      I am a beef loving gal, and this looks Ah-mazing. Plus, sirloin is such a great, versatile cut that is lean yet tender!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 29, 2018 at 1:11 am

        Exactly! To make something like this in such little time, you need a great cut meat. The beef cubes would work too, however, it requires a little more care to make it tender. Thank you for reading, Jennifer!

        Reply
    10. Jean

      November 21, 2018 at 9:17 pm

      5 stars
      Oh wow, I’m drooling at these photos! I definitely need this in my life. Looks so flavorful!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 29, 2018 at 1:11 am

        Thank you, Jean! Yes, it is very flavorful! You will love it.

        Reply
    11. Renee D Kohley

      November 21, 2018 at 12:56 am

      5 stars
      Such a simple weeknight meal!

      Reply
    12. Raia Todd

      November 20, 2018 at 10:33 pm

      5 stars
      Wow! I had never heard of tasso before, but I wasn’t expecting this. Haha! It looks amazing and sounds so simple. 🙂

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 29, 2018 at 1:12 am

        Hahaha! I love your reaction! Thank you. 🙂

        Reply
    13. Annie @ Annie's Noms

      November 17, 2018 at 4:41 pm

      These look wonderful! I love steak bites! I’ve never heard of washing meat in vinegar before, but I do live in a cold and wet country, so it’s probably not necessary! Does it alter the taste at all or does it just make it tender? I must say I sometimes struggle with beef if it’s chewy, I much prefer my beef to be tender so I may have to try putting it in vinegar!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 30, 2018 at 1:02 am

        Yes, Annie! It does alter the taste if it is soaked for too long (over 24 hours) However, for just a few hours, it does make the meat a little more tender. I personally do not mind a little acidic taste. However, if you are not used to it, I would not recommend it.

        Reply
    14. Natalie

      November 17, 2018 at 3:21 pm

      5 stars
      These steak bites look so delicious and juicy! YUM!

      Reply
    15. Jacqueline Meldrum

      November 17, 2018 at 3:07 pm

      Homemade meals are always much more appealing aren’t they and this is a nice easy recipe.

      Reply
    16. Julia

      November 17, 2018 at 2:24 pm

      These steak bites look so delicious! Thanks for the tip of using vinegar to wash off any bacteria.

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 30, 2018 at 1:08 am

        You are welcome, Julia. Thank you for reading.

        Reply
    17. Danielle Wolter

      November 17, 2018 at 1:13 pm

      5 stars
      This sounds so simple and delicious! I don’t know much about Haitian food, but love to learn about new cuisines. Glad I stumbled across this!

      Reply
      • MDesir

        November 30, 2018 at 1:09 am

        Thank you, Danielle!

        Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    We’re AJ & Mirlene. We create delicious traditional Haitian Food Recipes with a spin to make it easy for you to make. Join us and let's cook something delicious!

    Learn more about us ->

    Savory Thoughts Author Portrait

    As Seen On

    Favorite Recipes

    Copyright © 2023 · SAVORYTHOUGHTS.COM · Privacy Policy