Discovering the Hidden Gem: Cooking with Beef Heart

Beef heart is a powerhouse of nutrients, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. It is rich in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. A 100-gram serving of beef heart provides approximately 20 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. Moreover, beef heart nutrition is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, including:

1. B Vitamins: Beef's heart is packed with B vitamins, especially vitamin B12, which are crucial for red blood cell formation, nerve function, and DNA synthesis. It also contains niacin (B3), riboflavin (B2), and pantothenic acid (B5), all of which play vital roles in energy metabolism and overall health.
2. Iron: Beef heart is an excellent source of heme iron. It is highly bioavailable, meaning our bodies can absorb it more efficiently than non-heme iron from plant sources. This makes it an excellent option for preventing or addressing iron deficiency anemia.
3. Zinc is essential for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis. Beef heart provides a good amount of this crucial mineral.
4. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Beef heart is one of the richest dietary sources of CoQ10, a compound that plays a crucial role in energy production and is a powerful antioxidant. CoQ10 is also associated with heart health, making beef heart an excellent choice for supporting cardiovascular function.

Culinary Uses and Flavor Profile

Beef heart has a distinctive, robust flavor that is richer and more intense than regular muscle cuts of beef. Its taste is often described as a cross between meat and liver but less metallic than the latter. The texture of beef heart is surprisingly tender when appropriately cooked despite its muscle structure, which can be pretty dense.

This organ meat is versatile and can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, sautéing, stewing, and even raw in certain dishes like tartare or ceviche. Its intense flavor pairs well with bold seasonings and marinades, which can help to balance its richness.

1. Cleaning and Trimming: The heart of beef requires some preparation before cooking. Start by removing excess fat, connective tissue, and silver skin from the heart. This can be done with a sharp knife, carefully trimming unwanted parts. Some chefs recommend soaking the heart in cold water or a mild brine solution for a few hours to draw out blood and impurities.
2. Marinating: Given its robust flavor, beef heart benefits from marinating. A marinade can help tenderize the meat and infuse it with additional flavors. Typical marinade ingredients include acidic components like vinegar or citrus juice, oil, herbs, and spices. Allow the heart to marinate for at least a few hours or overnight.
3. Cooking Methods: The key to cooking beef heart is not overcooking it, as it can become burdensome. Here are a few popular cooking methods:
4. Grilling: Grilling beef heart is a great way to enjoy its meaty flavor. Cut the heart into steaks or cubes, season, and grill over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. The char from the grill adds a delicious smoky flavor.
5. Sautéing: For a quick and easy option, thinly slice the heart and sauté with garlic, onions, and other vegetables. This method works well for stir-fries or fajitas.
6. Stewing: Beef hearts can also be slow-cooked in stews and braises. This method allows the meat to become tender and soak up the flavors of the broth and seasonings.
7. Raw Preparations: In dishes like tartare or ceviche, beef heart can be served raw, finely diced, and mixed with citrus, herbs, and spices. Ensure the meat is fresh and properly cleaned when preparing it.

Grilled Beef Heart Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 beef heart, trimmed and cut into cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Add olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the beef heart cubes and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 2 hours.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Thread the marinated beef heart onto skewers.
4. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side until charred on the outside but still tender inside.
5. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.

Beef Heart Stir-Fry

Ingredients:

• 1 beef heart, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp chili flakes (optional)Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over high heat.Add the onion, bell peppers, garlic, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the sliced beef heart and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until cooked.
3. Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Mix well and cook for another minute.
4. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice.

Beef Heart Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 beef heart, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef heart cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and tomato paste, and cook for another minute.
4. Return the beef heart to the pot. Pour in the beef broth. Add the bay leaves and thyme.
5. Bring the beef heart stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

About One Stop Halal

Welcome to the Home of the Halal Beef. We carry various beef cuts that are hard to find elsewhere. We deliver to your doorstep anywhere in the United States within 1-2 business days.