Tartare, the beloved dish of finely chopped raw meat, has become a symbol of culinary sophistication worldwide. While most commonly associated with steak tartare, this dish has numerous variations, each offering a unique take on the basic principle of serving finely minced raw ingredients. For those wondering how to make raw meat dish at home, this guide will walk you through the origins, the best cuts of meat, essential ingredients, and variations of this dish that have made it a staple in fine dining.
What is Tartare?
It is a dish that involves raw meat or fish, minced or finely chopped, and typically mixed with seasonings and other ingredients. The most famous type of it is steak tartare, which uses raw beef as its base. However, it can also be made with other proteins like tuna, salmon, and even vegetables for a vegetarian twist.
A classic steak tartare usually consists of raw beef mixed with ingredients like onions, capers, mustard, and sometimes an egg yolk, which acts as a rich, creamy binder. Fish one typically involves diced raw tuna or salmon, mixed with citrus juices, herbs, and spices to create a fresh, vibrant dish.
The key to a great one lies in the quality of the ingredients and the careful preparation of the meat or fish. Each element adds depth and complexity to the dish, which is why tartare remains a timeless favorite among food lovers.
History and Origins
Mongolian and Russian horsemen ate raw meat during long journeys for quick sustenance, shaping the origins of tartare. According to legend, these horsemen, known as Tatars, would place raw meat under their saddles to tenderize it as they rode. By the end of their journey, the meat was tender enough to eat without cooking. Although this myth has been widely circulated, experts have since debunked it, but it continues to add an exotic touch to the dish’s history..
The dish as we know it today, steak tartare, is a product of French cuisine. Tartare gained popularity in upscale Parisian restaurants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where chefs served it as a luxurious and sophisticated appetizer. Originally called steak à l’Americaine, this raw beef dish included various seasonings and was often topped with a raw egg yolk. Today, people around the world enjoy tartare, which remains a symbol of culinary refinement.
Popular Types
Steak Tartare
The most iconic form of tartare is, without a doubt, steak tartare. This version consists of finely chopped raw beef, seasoned with ingredients like capers, mustard, onions, and Worcestershire sauce. A raw egg yolk is typically served on top, which adds richness to the dish. When prepared correctly, this dish offers a delicate balance of textures and flavors, making it a favorite among many.
Common Ingredients for Steak Tartare:
- Raw beef (such as tenderloin or sirloin).
- Capers.
- Dijon mustard.
- Chopped onions or shallots.
- Egg yolk (optional but traditional).
- Worcestershire sauce.
- Salt and pepper.
Tuna Tartare
Tuna tartare is a modern twist on the traditional beef version, featuring finely diced sushi-grade tuna. Typically, this dish includes fresh herbs, citrus juice, and spices, which complement the rich, fatty nature of the fish. Tuna tartare is a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter dish with a vibrant, refreshing taste.
Common Ingredients for Tuna Tartare:
- Sushi-grade tuna.
- Lemon or lime juice.
- Avocado (optional).
- Sesame oil.
- Soy sauce.
- Chopped herbs (such as cilantro or chives).
- Ginger.
Salmon Tartare
Salmon tartare is another fish-based version that has gained popularity. Like tuna tartare, this dish is typically light and refreshing, with a flavor profile that highlights the natural sweetness of the fish. Ingredients such as lemon, dill, and capers are commonly used to enhance the dish.
Common Ingredients for Salmon Tartare:
- Sushi-grade salmon.
- Lemon juice.
- Fresh dill.
- Capers.
- Shallots or onions.
- Olive oil.
Vegetable Tartare
For a plant-based alternative, vegetable tartare can be made using finely diced vegetables like beets, avocado, or mushrooms. While it mimics the presentation of traditional tartare, vegetable tartare offers a lighter, healthier option that’s equally delicious.
Common Ingredients for Vegetable Tartare:
- Finely diced beets or avocados.
- Lemon juice.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- Olive oil.
- Salt and pepper.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat for Tartare
When making steak tartare, the cut of meat you choose is crucial to achieving the right texture and flavor. The best cuts for tartare are tender, lean, and free from sinew or excessive fat. Here are the top options:
- Tenderloin: Widely regarded as the best cut for steak tartare, tenderloin is prized for its tenderness and mild flavor.
- Sirloin: Another excellent option, sirloin offers a good balance between tenderness and flavor while being more affordable than tenderloin.
- Top Round: Though slightly less tender than tenderloin or sirloin, top round is still a great choice, especially for those on a budget.
To get more information on choosing the best beef for various dishes, check out this comprehensive guide on beef cuts.
Preparing the Meat for Tartare
One of the most important aspects of making it is ensuring that the meat is properly prepared. The meat must be finely chopped to achieve the perfect texture, and the following steps are key:
Step 1: Freeze the Meat
Before you start chopping the meat, place it in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This helps firm up the exterior and makes it easier to cut.
Step 2: Hand Chop the Meat
Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the meat into thin strips, then chop those strips into small cubes. The goal is to achieve a finely chopped texture without turning the meat into mush. For best results, avoid using a food processor, which can make the texture too fine.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Once the meat is chopped, it’s time to add the seasonings. Common ingredients like capers, mustard, onions, and Worcestershire sauce are mixed with the meat to enhance the flavors.
Essential Ingredients for Steak Tartare
Tartare is all about the ingredients, and each component plays a vital role in creating a balanced dish. Here are the key elements that make up a traditional steak tartare:
- Capers: Capers provide a briny, tangy flavor that complements the richness of the beef.
- Dijon Mustard: This adds a sharp, spicy note to the dish and helps balance the flavors.
- Egg Yolk: Typically placed on top of the tartare, the egg yolk adds creaminess and richness to the overall dish.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This savory condiment adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the umami of the beef.
Other optional ingredients might include pickles, onions, or even a splash of Tabasco for a bit of heat. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
How to Serve Tartare
Presentation is everything when it comes to tartare, especially since it’s often served in high-end dining establishments. Here are a few ways to serve tartare that will impress your guests:
- Ring Mold: Use a ring mold to shape the tartare into neat, circular portions. This method gives the dish a professional look.
- Garnish: Add a touch of color and flavor with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or even edible flowers.
- Accompaniments: Tartare is often served with toast, crackers, or fries to provide texture and contrast.
Flavor Variations for Tartare
One of the best things about tartare is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors to match your personal preferences or to create something entirely new. Here are a few popular flavor profiles to try:
- French-Style Tartare: Stick to classic French ingredients like capers, mustard, and fresh herbs for a traditional take.
- Asian-Inspired Tartare: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of ginger for an umami-rich twist on the classic dish.
- Mediterranean Tartare: Use olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs like oregano or parsley to create a bright, fresh flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the Best Cut of Beef for Tartare?
The best cuts of beef for this dish are tenderloin, sirloin, and top round. These cuts are lean, tender, and offer the ideal texture for raw meat dishes.
2. Can I Make Fish Tartare at Home?
Yes, making fish tartare at home is simple, provided you use sushi-grade fish. This ensures the fish is safe to consume raw. Both tuna and salmon tartare are popular choices. Make sure the fish is as fresh as possible and has been properly handled before consumption.
3. Can Tartare Be Made with Vegetables?
Absolutely! Vegetable tartare is a delicious and refreshing option, often made with finely diced vegetables like avocado, beets, or mushrooms. It provides a lighter alternative to traditional onw while retaining the dish’s classic texture and presentation.
4. What’s the Difference Between Steak Tartare and Carpaccio?
While both dishes use raw beef, the key difference lies in preparation. Steak tartare involves finely chopped or minced meat, whereas carpaccio consists of thinly sliced raw beef. Both are served with seasonings, but tartare typically involves a more complex mixture of ingredients.
5. Can I Freeze Tartare?
Freezing tartare is not recommended after it’s prepared, as it affects the texture of the raw meat or fish. However, you can freeze the raw meat beforehand for short periods to make it easier to chop and to reduce any bacterial risks. Always consume tartare fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Tartare is a timeless dish that can be adapted in countless ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making the traditional steak tartare, experimenting with tuna tartare, or trying your hand at a vegetable tartare, the key is using fresh, high-quality ingredients and balancing flavors to create a harmonious dish.
By following the guidelines in this article, you can easily make tartare at home, whether for a fancy dinner party or a simple yet elegant meal. Remember, it’s all about paying attention to detail, from the choice of beef or fish to the way you serve the dish. With practice, you’ll master the art of making tartare in no time.
For more detailed guides on working with raw ingredients, check out this guide to ensure you’re making the best tartare possible.