1 Cup Steak Tartare (Raw Ground Beef and Egg) is a classic French dish that has become popular all over the world. This delicious and nourishing dish contains 470 calories per cup and is rich in protein and various minerals. However, some people wonder if it's safe to eat raw beef. In this article, we'll share everything you need to know about steak tartare and how to enjoy it safely and deliciously.

Steak tartare is a dish made from raw, finely chopped or ground beef mixed with various spices, sauces, and seasonings. Some variations may include other raw ingredients like onion, capers, and egg yolk. This dish is usually served with toasted bread or crackers and can be a great appetizer or main course.

Whether you want to impress your guests or try a new and exotic dish, steak tartare can be a great choice. However, it's important to know how to prepare and store it properly to avoid any health risks. Let's explore the details in the following sections.

What is Steak Tartare?

Steak tartare is a dish made from raw beef that is finely chopped or ground and usually mixed with seasonings like mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco sauce. It is believed to have originated in France in the 19th century, but has since become popular all over the world. The dish is usually served with bread, crackers, or chips. The name 'tartare' may come from the nomadic Tartar people who used to eat raw meat or from the French word 'tartar' which means 'sauce'. However, it's not clear how the dish got its name. What is clear is that steak tartare is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed in many variations and settings.

Steak Tartare Ingredients

The main ingredient in steak tartare is raw beef that is usually lean and tender. Other common ingredients include egg yolk, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco sauce, capers, onions, and parsley. Depending on the recipe, you may also use lemon juice, olive oil, soy sauce, cornichons, or anchovy paste. Raw beef is a good source of protein, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. However, it also carries a risk of foodborne illness like E. coli and salmonella. Therefore, it's important to use fresh, high-quality beef that has been handled and stored properly. Other ingredients like egg yolk and capers also contain various vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for your health.

How Many Calories Does 1 Cup of Steak Tartare Contain?

1 Cup of Steak Tartare (Raw Ground Beef and Egg) contains around 470 calories, depending on the recipe and serving size. Most of the calories come from protein and fat, while there is almost no carbohydrate in the dish. Therefore, steak tartare can be a good choice for people who follow a low-carb or high-protein diet. Steak tartare is also rich in various minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium, which are essential for your immune system, skin, and metabolism. However, it's important to balance your diet with other nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to get all the nutrients your body needs.

How is Steak Tartare Prepared?

Preparing steak tartare requires some skills and caution, as you are dealing with raw meat and eggs that can carry bacteria and parasites. Here are some general steps to follow:

1. Choose fresh, high-quality beef from a trusted source that you know follows food safety standards. The meat should be lean and tender, with little fat and connective tissue.
2. Use a sharp knife or food processor to chop the meat into very fine pieces. Avoid overmixing or mashing it, as this can change the texture and flavor of the meat.
3. Separate the egg white from the yolk and discard the white. Mix the yolk with the meat and seasonings in a bowl. Make sure they are well combined but not overmixed.
4. Cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 hour. This will help the flavors blend and the meat to firm up a bit.
5. To serve, shape the meat mixture into a ring or a quenelle using a spoon or a mold. Place it on a plate and garnish with capers, onions, or herbs. Serve with crackers or toasted bread.

Note: If you are not comfortable handling raw meat or eggs, or you have a compromised immune system, it's best to avoid making or eating steak tartare. You can still enjoy other cooked beef dishes that are equally delicious and nutritious.

Is It Safe to Eat Raw Beef?

Raw beef can carry harmful microorganisms like E. coli, Salmonella, or Campylobacter that can cause foodborne illness. Therefore, it's important to handle and prepare it properly to reduce the risks. However, raw beef can also be a good source of nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for your health. Here are some tips on how to reduce the risks of eating raw beef:

• Choose fresh, high-quality beef from a trusted source that follows food safety standards. Check the color, smell, and texture of the meat to make sure it's fresh and clean.
• Keep the meat refrigerated or frozen until you are ready to use it. Do not leave it at room temperature for too long.
• Use a clean and sharp knife, cutting board, and utensils to handle the meat. Do not use the same utensils or surfaces for cooked food without washing them.
• Chop or grind the meat just before using it. Do not thaw and refreeze it, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
• Do not overmix or mash the meat, as this can change its texture and increase the risk of bacterial contamination.
• Add acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar to the meat mixture to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. Also, chill the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to help the flavors blend and the meat to firm up a bit.

Serving Suggestions for Steak Tartare

Steak tartare can be a great dish to impress your guests or treat yourself to a special meal. However, it's important to serve and enjoy it safely and deliciously. Here are some ideas on how to serve steak tartare:

• Serve it as an appetizer with crackers, toasted bread, or chips. You can also spread it on crostini or brioche for a fancier presentation.
• Pair it with a refreshing salad or a light soup to balance the richness of the meat.
• Make it a main course by adding more garnishes like avocado, tomato, or arugula. You can also mix in cooked pasta or rice to make it more filling.
• Pair it with a glass of red wine or a cold beer to complement the flavors and aromas of the dish.

Note: You can also experiment with different seasonings and ingredients to make your own unique version of steak tartare. Just be sure to follow the basic steps and safety guidelines to avoid any health risks.

Variations of Steak Tartare

Steak tartare is a versatile dish that can be adapted to different tastes and preferences. Here are some variations and adaptations of the classic recipe:

• Tuna tartare: replace the beef with fresh and high-quality tuna, and season it with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and wasabi. Serve it with avocado, rice crackers, or pickled ginger.
• Salmon tartare: replace the beef with fresh and high-quality salmon, and season it with dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and capers. Serve it with cucumber slices, crackers, or rye bread.
• Vegan tartare: replace the beef and egg yolk with cooked quinoa, lentils, or mushrooms, and season it with tomato paste, garlic, soy sauce, and herbs. Serve it with vegetable sticks, pita bread, or falafel.

Note: You can also adapt the classic recipe by adding different spices, sauces, or garnishes to suit your taste. However, make sure that the ingredients are fresh, safe, and nutritious.

How to Store Steak Tartare?

If you have some leftover steak tartare after a meal, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. However, make sure that the mixture is not overmixed or has too many garnishes that may spoil or lose their freshness. When you want to consume the leftover steak tartare, take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to warm up a bit. You can also re-season it with a little more mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or lemon juice to refresh the flavors. Note: Do not freeze steak tartare, as it will change its texture and maybe unsafe to consume. Also, do not store it at room temperature for too long, as it may spoil and cause foodborne illness.

Steak Tartare Nutritional Content

Nutritional values of Steak Tartare (Raw Ground Beef and Egg) per 100 grams:

Nutrients	Amount per 100 g
calories	299
Protein	16.2 g
Fat	23 g
Carbohydrate	0.6 g
Fiber	0.1 g
Sugar	0.1 g
Sodium	1040 mg
Cholesterol	163 mg
Iron	2.3 mg
Zinc	3.6 mg
Vitamin B12	2.2 mcg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the recipe and serving size, as well as the source and quality of the ingredients. Use this table as a general reference only, and consult a registered dietitian or physician if you have specific dietary needs or health concerns.

Health Benefits of Steak Tartare.

Steak tartare can be a nutritious and satisfying dish that can provide you with various health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some health benefits of steak tartare:

• Protein: Steak tartare is a good source of protein that can help you build and repair muscles, tissues, and organs. Protein is also essential for your immune system, hormones, and enzymes.
• Vitamins and minerals: Steak tartare contains various vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iron, and zinc that are essential for your overall health and well-being.
• Low-carb: Steak tartare is a low-carb dish that can help you control your blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. However, make sure to balance it with other nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Tasty and unique: Steak tartare can be a delicious and unique dish that can add variety and excitement to your diet. It's also a great conversation starter and way to impress your guests.

Note: Eating steak tartare may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have a compromised immune system, food allergies or sensitivities, or other health conditions. If you have any concerns or questions, consult a registered dietitian or physician before trying or making steak tartare.