Steak tartare is one of the most elegant and delicious dishes you can enjoy in the kitchen. This classic recipe, made with finely minced and seasoned raw beef, has captivated diners worldwide. But today we want to take it to another level by adding a magical and exquisite ingredient: black truffle .
The black truffle, known as the "diamond of the kitchen," lends a unique flavor and aroma that enhances any dish. With its earthy and slightly spicy notes, it transforms steak tartare into a true gourmet experience. Throughout this article, we'll teach you step-by-step how to prepare this delicious recipe, as well as share some tips and secrets for getting the most out of the black truffle.
What is steak tartare?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's quickly review what steak tartare is and why it has become a culinary classic. This dish has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages and was popularized in Europe in the 19th century. It consists of finely chopped or ground raw beef, mixed with a variety of ingredients such as capers, onion, mustard, egg yolk, and seasonings.
Steak tartare is served chilled and fresh, and every bite is an explosion of flavor. It's also considered a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. With the addition of black truffle, the dish takes on a luxurious touch that will delight your guests and make you feel like a gourmet chef.
What is a black truffle and why is it so special?
The black truffle ( Tuber melanosporum ), native primarily to the regions of Aragon and Soria in Spain and Piedmont in Italy, is a subterranean fungus that grows in symbiosis with the roots of certain trees, such as oak and hazel. Harvesting it is a complex and laborious process, requiring the assistance of truffle dogs or pigs trained to locate it underground.
The black truffle is highly prized in gastronomy for its distinctive flavor and aroma, which impart an earthy, smoky, and slightly sweet note. Its rarity and the complex harvesting process, along with its ability to transform simple dishes into culinary experiences, make it one of the most expensive ingredients in the world.
Ingredients for a Steak Tartare with Black Truffle (serves 4)
For this recipe, we'll need quality ingredients, especially when it comes to the meat and the black truffle. The secret to a good steak tartare lies in using the best ingredients and respecting each of their flavors.
Main ingredients:
- 400g of beef tenderloin (preferably top quality and fresh meat)
- 1 grated black truffle (approximately 20-30 grams)
- 2 fresh egg yolks (preferably free-range eggs)
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of cognac or brandy (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped capers
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped pickled gherkins
- 1/2 finely chopped red onion or shallot
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
To serve the steak tartare with black truffle:
- Toast or crusty bread
- A few extra slivers of black truffle for decoration
- Fresh sprouts or chopped chives (optional)
Step by Step: How to Prepare a Delicious Steak Tartare with Black Truffle
Below, we show you the step-by-step instructions for preparing this recipe. It's important to follow each of these steps to achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your steak tartare.
1. Prepare the Meat
The meat is the star of this dish, so it must be extremely fresh and of high quality. We recommend asking your butcher for a piece of beef tenderloin and mincing it yourself at home to better preserve its freshness.
Wash the sirloin well and dry it with kitchen paper.
Cut the meat into small cubes and then finely chop it with a knife. Avoid using a meat grinder or food processor, as the meat may become too finely ground and lose its characteristic texture.
Remember that the cut should be thin, but not so small that it becomes a paste. We want each bite to retain some texture and not be completely homogeneous.
2. Prepare the Dressing
The dressing is key in steak tartare, as it provides that balanced flavor between acidity, saltiness and spiciness.
In a large bowl, add the egg yolks, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk gently until the ingredients are well combined.
Add the capers, gherkins, chopped onion, cognac (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently mix everything together to ensure the flavors blend.
Gradually add the extra virgin olive oil, whisking until emulsified. This will give the dressing a silky, smooth texture.
3. Add the meat and the black truffle.
Now is the time to combine the meat with the dressing.
Add the ground meat to the bowl with the seasoning and mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon.
Grate the black truffle directly over the meat mixture. Mix well so that the aroma and flavor of the truffle permeate the entire tartare.
At this stage, adjust the salt and pepper to your personal taste. The black truffle will give the tartare an earthy and aromatic flavor that will make it unique and special.
4. Plate the Steak Tartare
To present the dish elegantly:
Use a plating ring to shape the tartare. Place a portion on each plate and press gently to hold its shape.
Garnish the top with thin shavings of black truffle. You can also add some fresh sprouts or chopped chives to brighten up the dish.
Serve the steak tartare with toast or crusty bread, which will perfectly complement the smooth texture of the meat.
Tips and Variations to Personalize Your Steak Tartare with Black Truffle
Every chef has their tricks, and steak tartare is a dish that lends itself to personalization. Here are some tips to make this recipe even more your own:
- Add a touch of spice: If you like it spicy, you can add a few drops of Tabasco sauce or a little chili powder to the dressing. Be sure not to overdo it so as not to overpower the flavor of the truffle.
- Use different types of mustard: Although Dijon mustard is the most common in steak tartare, you can try wholegrain mustard for an extra touch of texture.
- Incorporate fresh herbs: Some steak tartare recipes include finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, which adds a note of freshness that contrasts with the deep flavor of the truffle.
- Experiment with other types of truffle: Although black truffle is the classic choice, you can also try white truffle or truffle oil, although these have a less intense flavor.
How to Serve Steak Tartare with Black Truffle?
Steak tartare is ideal as a starter, and the version with black truffle is perfect for special dinners or gourmet gatherings. You can serve it with a glass of smooth red wine, such as a Merlot or Pinot Noir, which will complement the flavors of the meat and truffle without being overpowering.
For an extra touch of luxury, you can serve the steak tartare with Parmesan shavings or even caviar. However, it's essential not to overload the dish so that the flavors of the meat and truffle remain the stars.
The Importance of Black Truffles in Haute Cuisine
Black truffle is one of those ingredients that doesn't need much preparation to shine. Incorporating it into a dish like steak tartare creates a sublime combination that enhances the natural flavors of the meat and the seasoning. Furthermore, truffle has aphrodisiac and antioxidant properties, making it an excellent addition not only for its flavor but also for its health benefits.
Steak tartare with black truffle is a recipe that combines tradition and luxury in a single dish. It's a perfect choice for those seeking a sophisticated dish that stands out for its simplicity and unique flavor. Preparing a good steak tartare requires time and dedication, but the result is a truly memorable gastronomic experience worth savoring.
Dare to try this recipe and surprise your guests with this exquisite steak tartare with black truffle!
