Are you looking for a unique, budget-friendly, and incredibly healthy addition to your weekly meal plan? Look no further than beef heart! This often-overlooked cut of meat is packed with nutrients and, when slow-cooked, becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. This recipe makes it easy to enjoy this nutritious powerhouse in a delicious and convenient way. Forget tough and chewy – this crock pot recipe transforms beef heart into a fall-apart masterpiece perfect for a satisfying and healthy dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef heart, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Searing the Beef Heart (Optional but Recommended)
For maximum flavor, start by searing the beef heart pieces. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef heart and brown on all sides. This step helps to develop a rich, deep flavor and creates a beautiful crust. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
Once the beef heart is seared (or if skipping this step), transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the same skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the beef heart. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf. Season generously with salt. Stir everything well to combine.
Step 4: The Slow Cooker Magic
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef heart is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf. You can shred the beef heart with two forks or leave it in chunks, depending on your preference. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve it as is, or over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for Success:
- Trimming the Fat: While some fat is good, trimming excess fat from the beef heart will help prevent it from becoming too greasy.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the beef heart, avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures proper browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika can add extra depth of flavor.
- Slow Cooker Variation: For a richer flavor, consider browning the vegetables along with the beef heart.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Heart: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
- Hearty Stew: Add potatoes, turnips, or other root vegetables for a more substantial stew.
- BBQ Beef Heart: After cooking, toss the shredded beef heart in your favorite BBQ sauce for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size.
This easy and delicious beef heart crock pot recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and budget-friendly meal. The slow cooking process transforms the beef heart into a tender and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Give it a try and experience the unique taste of this often-underappreciated cut of meat!