Hearty Beef Heart Stew
What Started it all:
garlic, onion, whole milk, balsamic vinegar, kidney beans, beef broth, thyme, parsley, carrots, mushrooms, zucchini, beef heart
This hearty stew combines tender beef heart with a medley of vegetables and rich flavors, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic, onions, and balsamic vinegar creates a deep, savory base, while the fresh herbs add a delightful brightness. Perfect for a family dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 beef heart, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Heart: Rinse the beef heart thoroughly under cold water and pat dry. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Beef Heart: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the beef heart pieces to the pot. Sear them until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar: Pour in the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the sliced carrots, mushrooms, and zucchini. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth and whole milk. Add the drained kidney beans, thyme, and some salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef heart is tender.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley just before serving to add a burst of freshness.
- Serve: Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal.
This Hearty Beef Heart Stew is not only a great way to explore unique cuts of meat, but it also brings together comforting flavors that everyone will love. Serve it up and watch your friends and family enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal!