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Beef Heart Recipes

Beef Heart Recipes
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Explore the rich flavor and nutrition-packed benefits of beef heart with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks, this dish offers a tender, juicy, and budget-friendly alternative to typical beef cuts. Featuring simple ingredients and versatile cooking methods, it promises a delicious culinary adventure that is healthy, flavorful, and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 fresh, cleaned beef heart (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Spices for Variation

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
  • 1 teaspoon coriander (for Latin flair)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (for Latin flair)

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Beef Heart: Start by thoroughly cleaning the beef heart. Trim away any visible fat, arteries, and connective tissue using a sharp knife. Rinse under cold water and pat dry. Then slice the heart into thin, even pieces or bite-sized cubes to ensure quick and even cooking.
  2. Marinating: In a bowl, combine olive oil, crushed garlic, chopped fresh herbs, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and pepper. Add any optional spices if desired. Coat the beef heart pieces evenly with this marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best flavor and tenderization.
  3. Cooking the Beef Heart: Choose your cooking method: For skillet searing, heat a pan over high heat and sear the beef heart pieces for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to medium doneness. Alternatively, grill over medium-high heat, turning once to develop a smoky char. For slow cooker preparation, place the marinated beef heart with root vegetables and broth in the cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.
  4. Resting and Serving: Remove the cooked beef heart from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Slice if needed, then plate along with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or fresh salad. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired for added freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • Proper Cleaning: Removing sinew and fat is key to avoiding chewiness and bitterness.
  • Don’t Overcook: Beef heart becomes tough if overdone—aim for medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness.
  • Marinate Well: At least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible, to soften the dense muscle fibers and boost flavor.
  • High Heat Searing: Use a cast-iron pan or grill for a beautiful crust without drying the meat.
  • Rest Meat: Always let the beef heart rest after cooking to lock in moisture and enhance juiciness.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef heart, offal recipe, healthy beef recipes, budget recipes, gluten free, easy weeknight dinner, protein rich meat

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/beef-heart-recipes/