Introduction
Steak tartare is a classic dish that celebrates the simple yet bold flavors of raw beef. This iconic meal originates from French cuisine and is perfect for those who enjoy a unique culinary experience. Typically served as an appetizer, steak tartare combines finely chopped raw steak with various seasonings and accompaniments, resulting in a delicious and sophisticated dish. In this article, we will explore how to create a delightful steak tartare using fresh ingredients.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound raw steak
1 shallot
1-2 pickles
1 tablespoon capers
2 anchovies
2 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground paprika, plus more for serving
⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
For Serving:
4 large egg yolks
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
To prepare the steak tartare, start by ensuring cleanliness in your workspace. Trim the raw steak of any fat, and finely chop it into small pieces. Mince the shallot, pickles, capers, and anchovies to ensure they blend well with the beef. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped beef with egg yolks, mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and the spices. Once mixed, incorporate the minced ingredients before shaping the mixture on serving plates. Top each serving with a raw egg yolk, garnish as desired, and serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers for an unforgettable dining experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sanitize Your Environment
Wash your hands, work surface, and utensils thoroughly before beginning.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Trim away any visible fat or connective tissue from the steak.
Step 3: Chop the Steak
Cut the steak into thin slices, then into thin strips, and finally finely chop it into small, uniform pieces. Alternatively, you can ask your butcher to finely grind the beef for you.
Step 4: Mince the Ingredients
Finely mince the shallot, pickles, capers, and anchovies. Ensure that all these ingredients are finely minced to blend well with the meat.
Step 5: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped beef, egg yolks, Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Step 6: Fold in Additional Ingredients
Fold in the finely chopped shallots, pickles, capers, and anchovies into the tartare base.
Step 7: Present the Tartare
There are several ways to present steak tartare. You can use a food ring mold to create a neat, round shape on the serving plate. Alternatively, you can simply mound the tartare on each plate using a spoon.
Step 8: Add the Egg Yolks
Make a small indentation in the center of each portion and place a raw egg yolk in each indentation.
Step 9: Garnish the Dish
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil if desired.
Step 10: Serve Immediately
Serve immediately with toasted bread or crackers.
Notes
Storage
Steak tartare is best served fresh and should not be stored for later consumption due to the raw ingredients.
Variations
Feel free to adjust the quantity of seasonings or add additional ingredients like hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Consider serving with capers or additional pickles on the side for a complementary flavor.
Cook techniques
Preparation of Steak
Trim away any visible fat or connective tissue from the steak before cutting it into thin slices, strips, and finely chopping into small, uniform pieces for optimal texture.
Mincing Ingredients
Finely mince the shallot, pickles, capers, and anchovies to ensure they blend well with the meat, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the tartare.
Mixing
Combine the finely chopped beef with egg yolks, Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper in a mixing bowl. This creates a rich and flavorful base.
Presentation
Use a food ring mold for a neat presentation, or mound the tartare on the plate using a spoon. Both methods can create an appealing visual impact.
Garnishing
Create an indentation in the center of each portion for a raw egg yolk and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and paprika. A drizzle of olive oil adds a touch of richness.
FAQ
Can I use pre-packaged ground beef for this recipe?
While pre-packaged ground beef can be used, fresh, raw steak is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
What are the best types of steak for tartare?
Tender cuts like filet mignon or sirloin are ideal for steak tartare due to their flavor and texture.
How can I ensure the beef is safe to eat raw?
Ensure that you use high-quality, fresh beef from a reputable source and keep it chilled until ready to prepare. Always practice good hygiene.
Can I substitute the egg yolk with anything else?
If you’re concerned about consuming raw eggs, you can use a pasteurized egg yolk or omit it entirely, although it may change the dish’s texture.
What is the purpose of the anchovies in this dish?
Anchovies add a depth of umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the tartare without making it taste fishy.
Conclusion
Steak tartare is a classic dish that showcases the rich flavors of high-quality raw beef enhanced with a medley of complementary ingredients. Its preparation requires careful attention to cleanliness and technique, ensuring a safe and delicious dining experience. Enjoying this dish allows for a culinary adventure, as each component—from the sharpness of the shallots to the briny pickles and anchovies—comes together to create a delightful harmony. Serve it elegantly with egg yolks and a sprinkle of paprika for the perfect presentation that will impress your guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Carpaccio
Slice raw beef tenderloin thinly, drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, and sprinkle with arugula, shaved Parmesan, and capers for a fresh take.
Tuna Tartare
Substitute beef with fresh sushi-grade tuna, mix with avocado, lime juice, and sesame oil for a refreshing seafood dish.
Chicken Tartare
Use fresh, high-quality ground chicken; combine with diced shallots, capers, parsley, and a tangy mustard dressing for a poultry twist.
Vegetarian Tartare
Create a tartare using finely chopped beets or mushrooms, mixed with Dijon mustard, pickles, and a bit of ketchup for a plant-based version.
Steak Sandwich
Transform the tartare into a sandwich; layer the mixture between crusty bread, adding fresh greens and cheese for a delicious meal.
Spicy Shrimp Tostadas
For a different flavor, top crispy tostadas with a spicy shrimp mixture, using similar spices and flavors for a seafood spin on the tartare concept.
