Cannibals: A Family Affair with Steak Tartare

My earliest memory of “Cannibals,” as we playfully called them in our family, is the hushed anticipation before a holiday gathering. The adults would be huddled in the kitchen, a flurry of chopping and mixing surrounding a large bowl. As a child, I was never quite sure what was going on, only that it involved raw meat and a lot of excited chatter. It wasn’t until I was older that I dared to try this family favorite, a truly unique dish that sparked endless debate on the best way to enjoy it. To this day, the strong aroma of fresh onions and the vibrant red of the ground steak instantly transport me back to those lively celebrations, a testament to the power of food and family traditions.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes refrigeration)
• Servings: Varies
• Yield: Varies
• Dietary Type: Not Suitable for Pregnant Women, Immunocompromised Individuals

Ingredients

• 4 lbs fresh round steaks, ground
• 2 cups onions, finely chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Spatula or Spoon
• Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 lbs of freshly ground round steak and 2 cups of finely chopped onions.
2. Thoroughly mix the ingredients together until the onions are evenly distributed throughout the ground steak. Use your hands or a sturdy spatula for the best results.
3. Season generously with salt and pepper. The amount of seasoning depends on your preference, but remember that the raw meat will need a good amount to bring out the flavor.
4. Once all the ingredients are well combined, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container.
5. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to chill thoroughly.
6. Before serving, give it a good mix to ensure even flavor distribution.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Sourcing the Meat: The most crucial element of this recipe is the quality of the steak. Opt for fresh, high-quality round steak from a reputable butcher. Ask them to grind it fresh for you, ensuring it’s as clean and safe as possible. The fresher, the better!
• Temperature is Key: Keep the meat as cold as possible throughout the preparation process. Place the mixing bowl in a larger bowl filled with ice to maintain a low temperature while you’re mixing the ingredients.
• Onion Preparation: Finely chopping the onions is essential for even distribution and flavor. Consider using a food processor for quick and consistent results, but be careful not to over-process them into a paste.
• Adjusting Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste a small amount of the mixture before refrigerating to adjust the seasoning. Remember, you’re working with raw meat, so exercise caution.
• Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent any contamination.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

“Cannibals,” or steak tartare, are traditionally served cold as an appetizer. Here are some serving suggestions:

• On Bread or Crackers: Serve the mixture on slices of toasted Italian bread, rye bread, or sturdy crackers. The crunchy texture provides a nice contrast to the soft meat.
• With Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings such as capers, chopped pickles, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and raw egg yolks (use pasteurized eggs for safety).
• As a Dip: Serve with vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and cucumber.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage:

• Due to the raw nature of the ingredients, it’s best to consume steak tartare immediately after preparing.
• Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 24 hours.
• It is generally not recommended to freeze steak tartare, as the texture will change significantly upon thawing.
• Do not leave steak tartare at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Nutritional Information

Please note that the following information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	400 kcal	20%
Total Fat	30g	46%
Saturated Fat	12g	60%
Cholesterol	150mg	50%
Sodium	300mg	13%
Total Carbohydrate	5g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Sugars	2g	–
Protein	30g	60%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Version: Add finely chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers for a fiery kick.
• Garlic Infusion: Mince a clove of garlic and add it to the mixture for a pungent flavor.
• Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon for a more complex flavor profile.
• Mustard Enhancement: Add a dollop of Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard for a tangy and slightly spicy element.
• Capers: Include finely chopped capers for a salty and briny touch.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds umami and depth of flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Is it safe to eat raw meat?
A: Eating raw meat carries a risk of foodborne illness. To minimize the risk, use the freshest, highest-quality meat from a reputable source and keep it refrigerated at all times.

Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: While round steak is traditional, you can also use other lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin. Ensure the cut is lean and well-trimmed.

Q: How long can I store steak tartare in the refrigerator?
A: It’s best to consume steak tartare within 24 hours of preparation to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

Q: Can I freeze steak tartare?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it can significantly alter the texture of the meat.

Q: What can I serve with steak tartare?
A: Steak tartare pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, capers, onions, mustard, and a variety of other toppings. It’s often served as an appetizer with beer or wine.

Final Thoughts

While the thought of eating raw meat might be daunting for some, “Cannibals,” or steak tartare, is a truly unique and flavorful experience when prepared with care and high-quality ingredients. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try this classic dish. Share it with friends and family, experiment with different toppings and seasonings, and create your own version of this timeless delicacy. Who knows, it might just become a new family tradition!