Raw beef, also known as beef tartare or steak tartare, refers to dishes made from fresh, uncooked ground or minced beef While the idea of consuming raw meat may seem unappetizing to some, beef tartare is a delicacy with a long and storied history across many cuisines. Keep reading to learn more about the different names for raw beef dishes and their origins.
A Brief History of Eating Raw Meat
The practice of eating raw meat dates back thousands of years. There is evidence that ancient hunters would consume the raw organs of animals immediately after killing them. Later, nomadic groups like the Tatars would reportedly tenderize meat under their saddles as they rode, before eating it raw.
While the specifics are debated by historians, what is clear is that consuming raw meat has been common across many cultures. The term “steak tartare” originated in Europe, likely from the widespread myths that Tatars ate raw meat. It was later popularized as a dish in France.
Raw Beef Dishes Around the World
Today, raw beef dishes are enjoyed globally. Here are some of the most popular:
Steak Tartare
This classic French dish is made from raw ground beef seasoned with onions, capers, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and other ingredients. A raw egg yolk is typically placed on top. Steak tartare likely originated from the German Hamburg steak, which was served raw in the port of New York in the late 1800s before becoming popular in Parisian restaurants
Kibbeh Nayyeh
In the Levant region, people enjoy kibbeh nayyeh, a dish made from raw lamb or beef mixed with bulgur wheat and Middle Eastern spices like cinnamon. It is similar to steak tartare but with a distinct Lebanese flair.
Kitfo
Ethiopians have a raw beef dish called kitfo, made from minced beef and spiced clarified butter with mitmita, a chili powder. It is often served with injera flatbread.
Gored Gored
Another Ethiopian and Eritrean preparation, gored gored is a simpler raw beef dish made from beef cubes flavored with butter and spices.
Koi Soi
This Thai specialty is a tartare made from lean, finely chopped beef mixed with fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, chilies, and fresh herbs. It’s served chilled, often over a bed of lettuce.
Mett
Germans enjoy mett, a preparation of raw minced pork popular in many gastropubs. Beef mett is also eaten, seasoned similarly with onions, pepper, and other spices.
Yukhoe
In Korea, yukhoe is a version of steak tartare made from sliced raw beef tenderloin. It is marinated in soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil and garnished with Asian pear and egg yolk.
Is Raw Beef Safe?
With proper food safety practices, raw beef tartare is generally safe to eat. It is critical that the beef is fresh and properly handled and stored. Grinding one’s own meat introduces bacteria to the interior, so pre-ground beef from a trusted butcher should be used. Government agencies typically advise against consuming raw ground beef.
When prepared carefully, beef tartare and similar raw meat dishes are delicious time-honored traditions that connect us to cultures worldwide. From Parisian bistros to Ethiopian feasts, humans have enjoyed the rich umami flavor of quality beef served raw for millennia. So next time you see steak tartare on a menu, don’t be afraid to give it a try!
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TOO RAW??? BAZAAR MEAT Las Vegas Beef Tartare!!!
FAQ
What is raw meat on a menu called?
Carpaccio. Pronounced car-PACH-ee-oh. A dish, most often served as an appetizer, consisting of thinly sliced raw meat (most often beef) or fish served with a light dressing or sauce.
What is it called when people eat raw beef?
omophagia in American English. (ˌouməˈfeidʒə, -dʒiə) noun. the eating of raw food, esp. raw meat.
Is carpaccio actually raw?
Carpaccio is a type of appetiser dish that originated in Italy. It is made from thinly sliced, raw meat or fish served with accoutrements. A traditional carpaccio was made from raw beef served with lemon, olive oil, white truffle, and parmesan, topped with capers or onions.
What is raw beef on crackers called?
Tiger meat is a raw beef dish. It consists of raw ground beef with onion and salt and pepper, often served with rye bread. Some eat it like a dip with crackers.
What is raw beef?
Raw beef is a dish served around the world, including Europe, Asia, South America, North America and the Middle East. Whether the beef is minced, thinly sliced, marinated, smoked or spiced, the prime raw material lends itself to a variety of techniques and flavours.
What is raw sliced beef?
However, it goes by several names and varies in style and preparation methods based on different cultures and cuisines. One of the most common terms used to describe raw sliced beef is carpaccio. Traditionally, carpaccio refers to thin slices of raw beef seasoned with oils and vinegar and served as an appetizer.
What is the most popular raw beef dish in the world?
Tartare Arguably the most popular raw beef dish in the world, steak tartare has influenced many different variations on the original. In its most basic form, raw minced or chopped beef is formed into a patty and served with a raw egg yolk on top.
What is raw beef used for?
Raw beef is commonly used in: Tartare: A classic French dish consisting of finely minced raw beef seasoned with herbs and spices. Carpaccio: Thinly sliced raw beef drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. Kibbeh nayeh: A Middle Eastern dish made with raw ground beef, bulgur, and spices.
What are the different types of raw beef dishes?
Raw beef dishes, popular in various cultures, include Kitfo, Koi Soi, Beef Carpaccio, Yukhoe, Hackepeter, Beef Tartare, Sashimi, and Crudo, each with unique preparation methods and ingredients.
Where did raw meat come from?
And look! . (Credit: Wikimedia) Some claim that the name for the most famous dish of raw meat (beef or horse, typically) came from the Central Asian Tatars’ habit of sticking horse meat under their saddle during a day’s ride, and eating it raw and tenderized at the end of the day.