Why don’t we consume beef tartare in the United States?
Beef tartare is a dish that is popular in many countries around the world, but it is not typically consumed in the United States. In this blog post, we will explore the potential risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked beef and why beef tartare is not considered safe to eat in the United States.
Cultural Differences
Beef tartare is not as common in American cuisine as it is in other parts of the world. The dish has its roots in French cuisine and is popular in Europe, but it is not as widely consumed in the United States. This is likely due to cultural differences, as Americans tend to prefer cooked and well-done meats over raw or rare meats.
When it comes to consuming beef tartare, there is a distinct difference in attitude between the French and American cultures. In France, beef tartare, also known as steak tartare, is a beloved dish that has been a staple of French cuisine for centuries. It is traditionally made from raw ground beef, mixed with herbs, spices, and a raw egg yolk. The dish is often served with French fries and a salad. In France, the consumption of raw meat is considered safe and traditional, and many French people view the dish as a delicacy.
In contrast, in the United States, the consumption of raw meat is not as common, and many people view it as a potential health risk. As a result, beef tartare is not as widely consumed in the United States as it is in France. Additionally, in the US, the dish is often served with a warning about consuming raw or undercooked meats.
Food Safety Concerns
One of the main reasons why beef tartare is not commonly consumed in the United States is due to concerns about food safety. Beef tartare is made from raw ground beef, which can potentially contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli or Salmonella. In order to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that all beef be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that raw beef dishes like beef tartare are not considered safe to eat in the United States.
Despite these reasons, some restaurants in the United States may still serve beef tartare, but it is typically made with a higher grade of beef, and it may be served with a warning about consuming raw or undercooked meats. To reduce the risk of foodborne illness, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that all beef be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that raw beef dishes like beef tartare are not considered safe to eat in the United States. If you do choose to try beef tartare, make sure to only consume it from reputable sources and to be aware of the potential risks associated with eating raw meats.
Spicy Beef Tartare Recipe
If despite this, you are still interested in trying to make your own beer tartare, we have a spicy recipe we recommend.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of high-quality, fresh ground beef (sirloin or tenderloin recommended)
- 2 tablespoons of finely chopped shallots
- 2 tablespoons of finely chopped cornichons or pickles
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon of capers, drained
- 1 tablespoon of The Chicago Hot Sauce (for dill pickle flavor) or The Detroit Hot Sauce (for smokey flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of finely chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Quail eggs or raw egg yolk, for garnish (optional)
- Crostini or French fries, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, shallots, cornichons, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, capers, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Using your hands, mix the ingredients together until well combined.
- Shape the beef mixture into small rounds or mold it into a shape of your preference
- Place the beef tartare on a plate and garnish with a quail egg or a raw egg yolk, if desired.
- Serve the beef tartare immediately, accompanied by crostini or French fries.
Note: Use the highest quality fresh beef possible to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, and it’s always best to consult with a health professional if you have any concerns about consuming raw meats.
In conclusion, while beef tartare may be a popular and delicious dish in other parts of the world, it is not commonly consumed in the United States due to food safety concerns. If you do choose to try beef tartare, only consume it from reputable sources and to be aware of the potential risks associated with eating raw meats. Consult with a health professional if you have any concerns about consuming raw meats. Bon Appétit!
