Beef Tartare: A Classic French Dish

Why You Should Try Beef Tartare

Beef Tartare is a classic French dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a perfect dish for a fancy dinner or a special occasion, and is sure to impress your guests. While some people may be hesitant to try raw beef, when done correctly, Beef Tartare is a delicious and safe dish that is not to be missed.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need to make Beef Tartare for 4 portions:

• 500g beef tenderloin
• 2 tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp capers, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp shallots, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped
• 1 egg yolk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Baguette slices, for serving

How to Make Beef Tartare

1. Start by trimming any excess fat or tendons from the beef tenderloin. Cut the beef into small cubes, about 1/4 inch in size.

2. In a large bowl, combine the dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, capers, shallots, parsley, and egg yolk. Mix well.

3. Add the beef cubes to the bowl and mix until the beef is evenly coated with the mustard mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Divide the beef tartare into four portions and shape each portion into a mound on a plate.

5. Place an egg yolk on top of each mound of beef tartare.

6. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, capers, and shallots, if desired.

7. Serve with toasted baguette slices.

Variations

Beef Tartare is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are a few variations to try:

• Spicy Beef Tartare - Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mustard mixture for a spicy kick.
• Asian Beef Tartare - Replace the dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce and sesame oil. Add finely chopped ginger and garlic to the mixture for an Asian twist.
• Smoked Beef Tartare - Smoke the beef cubes before mixing them with the mustard mixture for a smoky flavor.

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version of this dish, replace the beef with finely chopped portobello mushrooms. Mix the mushrooms with the mustard mixture and serve on a bed of arugula.

Conclusion

Beef Tartare is a classic French dish that is perfect for a fancy dinner or a special occasion. While some may be hesitant to try raw beef, when done correctly, Beef Tartare is a delicious and safe dish that is not to be missed. Customize it to your liking and impress your guests with this elegant dish.

FAQ

What is Beef Tartare?

Beef Tartare is a classic French dish made with raw beef that has been finely chopped or ground and then seasoned with various ingredients.

Is it safe to eat raw beef in Beef Tartare?

Eating raw beef always comes with some risk, but if you buy high-quality meat from a reputable source and follow proper food safety practices, the risk can be minimized. It’s important to use fresh and properly refrigerated meat, and to wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before handling the meat.

Can I use any type of beef for Beef Tartare?

You can use any type of beef for Beef Tartare, but it’s best to use a cut that is lean and tender, such as tenderloin or sirloin. Avoid using fatty cuts like ribeye or chuck, as the excess fat can make the dish too rich and heavy.

Do I need any special equipment to make Beef Tartare?

You don’t need any special equipment to make Beef Tartare, but a sharp knife and a food processor or meat grinder can make the process easier and faster. If you don’t have a food processor or meat grinder, you can still make the dish by finely chopping the beef by hand.

What are some traditional seasonings for Beef Tartare?

Traditional seasonings for Beef Tartare include capers, Dijon mustard, shallots, parsley, and Worcestershire sauce. You can also add other seasonings like hot sauce, garlic, or lemon juice to customize the flavor to your liking.

How should I serve Beef Tartare?

Beef Tartare is typically served cold or at room temperature, either as an appetizer or a main course. It’s often accompanied by toasted bread or crackers, and some people like to serve it with a raw egg yolk on top.

Can I make Beef Tartare ahead of time?

Beef Tartare is best made fresh, as the flavor and texture can change over time. It’s not recommended to make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth.

How long can I store Beef Tartare in the fridge?

If you have any leftover Beef Tartare, it should be consumed within 24 hours. It’s important to keep it refrigerated and to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure.

Can I freeze Beef Tartare?

It’s not recommended to freeze Beef Tartare, as freezing can change the texture and flavor of the raw beef. It’s best to only make as much as you plan to consume fresh.

Can I use other types of meat instead of beef for Tartare?

While Beef Tartare is the most common type of Tartare, you can also make Tartare with other types of meat, such as salmon, tuna, or venison. However, the preparation and seasoning will vary depending on the type of meat you use.