Beef Heart Recipe Easy and Delicious Cooking Guide

Beef heart might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a meal, but this nutrient-rich, flavorful cut of meat deserves a place in your kitchen. Whether grilled, stewed, braised, or pan-seared, beef heart recipe offer a unique taste and texture that can rival even the best cuts of steak. Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making it a great choice for those on keto or paleo diets.

This guide covers everything you need to know about cooking beef heart, from choosing the best cut and preparing it properly to exploring the best beef heart recipes. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to cook this delicious organ meat like a pro.

Understanding Beef Heart as an Ingredient

What is Beef Heart?

Beef heart is exactly what it sounds like—the heart of a cow. Unlike other organ meats, it has a texture similar to steak but with a slightly richer, more intense flavor. Since the heart is a hardworking muscle, it tends to be leaner and denser than typical cuts of beef. However, when cooked correctly, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.

Many cultures around the world have been using beef heart for centuries due to its high nutritional value and affordability. It can be grilled, stewed, or even made into ground meat for burgers and sausages.

Nutritional Benefits of Eating Beef Heart

If you’re looking for a powerhouse of nutrition, beef heart delivers. This organ meat is packed with:

• High-Quality Protein – Essential for muscle growth and repair.
• B Vitamins (B12, B2, B6, and Folate) – Supports energy production and brain function.
• Iron and Zinc – Crucial for immune health and oxygen transport.
• CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10) – A powerful antioxidant that supports heart health.

Compared to traditional beef cuts, beef heart is lower in fat but still bursting with nutrients. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone following a keto, paleo, or whole-food diet.

Where to Buy and How to Choose the Best Beef Heart

You might not find beef heart in your regular grocery store, but it’s readily available at butcher shops, farmers’ markets, and online meat suppliers. Here are some tips for selecting the best beef heart:

• Go for Fresh or Frozen: Fresh beef heart should be deep red with little to no discoloration. If buying frozen, ensure it’s vacuum-sealed to preserve freshness.
• Choose Grass-Fed if Possible: Grass-fed beef heart has a richer nutrient profile and a cleaner taste.
• Check for Trimmed vs. Untrimmed: Some butchers sell beef heart with fat and membranes still attached, while others offer pre-trimmed cuts for convenience.

Preparing Beef Heart for Cooking

How to Clean and Trim a Beef Heart

Before diving into a beef heart recipe, proper preparation is key. Since the heart is a hardworking muscle, it comes with some tough connective tissue, fat, and blood vessels that need to be removed before cooking.

Follow these simple steps to clean and trim a beef heart:

1. Rinse the heart under cold water to remove any remaining blood.
2. Pat it dry with paper towels for easy handling.
3. Cut the heart open along its natural seams to expose the inside.
4. Remove any large blood vessels, silverskin, and excess fat using a sharp knife. While some fat adds flavor, too much can create a chewy texture.
5. Slice the heart into your desired cut, whether steaks, strips, or cubes, depending on your chosen recipe.

Trimming takes only a few minutes but makes all the difference in the final dish. A properly cleaned beef heart will have a rich, meaty flavor without any unwanted chewiness.

Marinating and Tenderizing for Best Results

Since beef heart is naturally lean, marinating can help boost flavor and tenderness. The key is to use acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk, which help break down muscle fibers.

For a simple marinade, combine:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano)

Let the beef heart sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours—overnight is even better. This enhances tenderness and infuses deep flavors, making any beef heart recipe more delicious.

Best Cooking Methods for Beef Heart

Grilling Beef Heart for a Smoky Flavor

One of the best ways to cook beef heart is grilling. The high heat quickly sears the outside, locking in juices while giving the meat a smoky char.

To grill beef heart:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
2. Remove the heart from the marinade and pat it dry.
3. Brush with a light coat of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side until a crust forms but the inside remains tender.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Grilled beef heart tastes similar to a great steak but is more affordable and packed with extra nutrients.

Slow Cooking and Braising for Tenderness

If you prefer a fork-tender texture, slow cooking or braising is the way to go. Low temperatures allow the muscle fibers to break down gradually, making the heart incredibly soft and flavorful.

To make braised beef heart:

1. Sear the heart pieces in a heavy pan until browned on all sides.
2. Add aromatics like onions, garlic, and carrots for depth of flavor.
3. Pour in beef broth or red wine to cover the meat halfway.
4. Simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours until the heart becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Slow cooking also works great for stews, where the beef heart absorbs the flavors of the broth and seasonings.

Pan-Searing Beef Heart for a Quick and Easy Meal

Need a fast way to cook beef heart? Pan-searing delivers a delicious meal in minutes.

Here’s how:

1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
3. Sear the heart slices for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic butter before serving.

This method keeps the meat juicy while giving it a flavorful crust. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a healthy and satisfying dish.

Sous Vide Method for Precision Cooking

For those who love precision, sous vide is a foolproof way to cook beef heart perfectly every time. This method uses a water bath to slowly bring the meat to the ideal temperature.

Steps for sous vide beef heart:

1. Season the trimmed beef heart with salt, pepper, and garlic.
2. Seal it in a vacuum bag and place it in a preheated water bath at 130°F (for medium-rare).
3. Cook for 4-6 hours to achieve a tender, steak-like texture.
4. Finish with a quick sear in a hot pan to create a flavorful crust.

Sous vide locks in moisture and ensures even cooking, making it a great choice for those new to beef heart recipes.

Popular and Delicious Beef Heart Recipes

Grilled Beef Heart Recipe

Grilling brings out the best in beef heart, giving it a smoky flavor and juicy texture. This simple recipe is perfect for anyone trying beef heart for the first time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef heart, cleaned and sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the beef heart slices and coat well. Let marinate for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
4. Grill each slice for 3-4 minutes per side or until a nice char develops.
5. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly. Serve with chimichurri sauce or grilled vegetables.

Beef Heart Stew with Onions and Herbs

Slow cooking makes beef heart incredibly tender. This hearty stew is perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 1½ pounds beef heart, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat a pan over medium heat and sear the beef heart cubes until browned on all sides.
2. Transfer to a slow cooker. Add onions, carrots, and garlic.
3. Pour in the beef broth and wine. Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is tender.
5. Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Beef Heart Braised in Red Wine

Braised beef heart has a rich, deep flavor that pairs well with red wine.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole beef heart, trimmed and cut into chunks
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups red wine
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Heat a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and brown the beef heart pieces.
2. Remove the meat and sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Return the beef heart to the pot and add wine, broth, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 2-3 hours until the heart is fork-tender.
5. Serve with roasted potatoes or over buttered noodles.

Easy Beef Heart Steak with Garlic Butter

For a quick meal, pan-seared beef heart steak is a great option.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef heart, sliced into steaks
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
2. Season beef heart steaks with salt and pepper. Sear for 3 minutes per side.
3. Add the remaining butter and garlic. Cook for another minute.
4. Let the steak rest before slicing thinly. Serve with sautéed greens.

Stuffed Beef Heart with Sage and Onion

Stuffing beef heart makes for a flavorful dish perfect for a special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole beef heart, cleaned
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, onion, sage, salt, pepper, and egg.
3. Stuff the mixture into the beef heart cavity and secure with kitchen twine.
4. Place in a baking dish with 1 cup of beef broth. Cover with foil.
5. Bake for 2½ hours, basting occasionally. Slice and serve.

For more savory dishes that pair well with garlic rice, check out the boneless beef ribs recipe.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Beef Heart

Since beef heart recipes have a deep, rich flavor, pairing them with the right sides enhances the overall meal. Here are some great options:

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts bring a natural sweetness that balances the heart’s savory taste.
• Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash: A creamy side helps round out the meal.
• Rice or Quinoa: Light and fluffy grains absorb the flavorful juices of grilled or braised beef heart.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauces in a slow-cooked or braised beef heart recipe.

Sauces and Seasonings That Enhance the Flavor

Beef heart has a naturally bold taste, but the right seasonings make it even better. Consider these flavorful additions:

• Chimichurri Sauce: A mix of parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar brings a bright, tangy contrast to grilled beef heart.
• Garlic Butter: Melts beautifully over pan-seared beef heart steaks.
• Red Wine Reduction: Works great with braised beef heart, adding depth to the dish.
• Spicy Mustard Sauce: Adds a nice tang to grilled or roasted beef heart.

FAQs

Conclusion

Cooking with beef heart may seem unconventional, but it’s a rewarding experience that introduces rich flavors, tender textures, and incredible health benefits. Whether you choose to grill, braise, stew, or pan-sear, there’s a beef heart recipe that will suit your taste and cooking style.

Beyond its deliciousness, beef heart is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with protein, iron, B vitamins, and CoQ10, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat nutrient-dense meals. Plus, it’s an affordable cut of meat that delivers exceptional flavor when prepared correctly.