If you’re looking for something a little adventurous and absolutely packed with flavor and nutrition, let me introduce you to beef heart stew: A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try. It’s rich, savory, and layered with aromatic vegetables, letting the star ingredient, beef heart, truly shine while offering incredible amounts of protein, iron, and other vital nutrients. This dish transforms a humble cut of meat into a tender, soul-warming stew that’s perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prep, or introducing a new favorite at your next potluck. Curious yet? Let’s dig in!

A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things straightforward, relying on classic ingredients that amplify the natural flavors of beef heart and create a comforting, crave-worthy meal. Each addition has a purpose—think color, texture, or a pop of herby brightness—making every bite memorable.

Beef heart (1.5–2 lbs): The star of the show, it’s lean, rich, and incredibly tender when cooked low and slow.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brings everything together and helps the vegetables and meat caramelize beautifully.
Onion (1 medium, finely chopped): Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the stew’s base.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Essential punch of flavor—don’t hold back here!
Carrots (2 medium, sliced): Offer natural sweetness and a boost of color.
Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Classic earthy, slightly peppery notes build complexity.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Delivers richness and helps thicken the sauce.
Beef broth (2 cups): Soaks into every morsel, guaranteeing maximum savoriness.
Bay leaves: Aromatic and subtle, lifting the flavors as the stew simmers.
Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried): Brings that classic herby goodness that pairs with beef perfectly.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth, depth, and a pop of color.
Salt (to taste): Make sure you layer and taste as you go to hit that perfect balance.
Black pepper (to taste): For just the right amount of gentle heat and flavor.
Fresh parsley (chopped): A burst of freshness to finish—don’t skip it!

How to Make A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try

Step 1: Prep the Beef Heart

Start by trimming any visible fat, arteries, or connective tissue from the beef heart. For best results, rinse it under cold water and pat it dry so it’s ready for slicing. Cut the heart into evenly sized strips or cubes, which ensures everything cooks at the same rate. If you have a little extra time, tossing the meat in a quick marinade of olive oil, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper makes this already delightful dish even more flavorful—let it rest for at least one hour or, if you can, overnight for deeper richness.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a big skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery—the holy quartet of stew bases! Sauté everything until the veggies grow wonderfully fragrant and start to soften, usually about five minutes. This step lays the flavor foundation for the entire meal.

Step 3: Brown the Beef Heart

Push the aromatic veggies to one side of the pan, clearing space for the beef heart strips. Place the meat into the skillet and sear the pieces, turning so all the sides get some golden color. This browning is crucial, as it adds unbeatable flavor that takes the stew to the next level.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Once the meat is browned, bring the veggies and beef heart together in the pan, and stir in the tomato paste so it coats everything evenly. This step unlocks all the depth you want in a stew. Pour in beef broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and loosen any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom.

Step 5: Add Seasonings and Simmer

Add your bay leaves, thyme, paprika, and adjust the salt and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir. Once simmering, turn the heat to low, cover, and let it gently bubble away for 1.5 to 2 hours. Occasionally stir and check if you need to top up with a splash more broth if things look dry. The result: fork-tender beef heart and a rich, savory stew that fills the kitchen with incredible aromas. That’s what makes this A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Fish out the bay leaves, taste the stew, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Set out fresh chopped parsley to sprinkle generously just before serving. That final pop of green makes the dish sing!

How to Serve A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try

Garnishes

A handful of freshly chopped parsley really wakes up the flavors and adds vibrant color. For extra richness, a small dollop of sour cream or a swirl of olive oil can bring a luxurious finish to each bowl.

Side Dishes

This stew is incredibly versatile—ladle it over a mound of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or serve with crusty bread to soak up every savory drop. A side salad with crisp greens and vinaigrette makes a fresh counterpoint, brightening the entire meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic vibe, bring the pot straight to the table and let everyone serve themselves with crusty chunks of bread nearby. If you’re hosting, try spooning the stew into ovenproof mini crocks, then topping with a puff pastry lid for a playful, pot pie feel. Either way, you’ll wow your guests with this A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll happily keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor even improves overnight, making next-day lunches something to look forward to!

Freezing

This stew freezes beautifully, so make a double batch if you want easy meals down the line. Pour cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Warm the stew gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until piping hot. If it thickened in the fridge, just add a splash of water or extra broth to loosen it up and restore its perfect consistency. Microwave reheating works fine, too—just be sure to stir halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Is beef heart tough or chewy?

Not if it’s cooked properly! Low and slow simmering transforms the beef heart into something remarkably tender, comparable to the best stew beef you’ve ever had. Don’t skip the long simmer; it really pays off in texture.

What does beef heart taste like?

Beef heart is surprisingly mild and slightly sweet, with a rich, meaty flavor that’s less intense than liver and more approachable for those new to organ meats. Its unique taste is one of the reasons this is truly A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After browning the heart and sautéing aromatics, transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, or until the beef heart is perfectly tender.

Are there any ingredient substitutions?

Feel free to swap in other root veggies like parsnips or potatoes, or add chopped tomatoes for a tangier sauce. If you don’t have fresh parsley, try cilantro or even dill for a different finish.

Why is beef heart considered healthy?

Beef heart is packed with protein, iron, B vitamins, and important minerals. It’s especially rich in CoQ10, which is great for heart health—one more reason this dish is truly A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something hearty, nutritious, and a little outside the ordinary, give this beef heart stew a spin. Not only is it A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try, but it’s also a soul-warming tradition in the making. One taste, and you might just find yourself adding it to your regular rotation—happy cooking!

A Protein-Packed Meal You Need to Try Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 30 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This Beef Heart Recipe is a protein-packed dish that promises rich flavors and tender meat in a hearty stew. Learn how to prepare and cook a savory beef heart stew that will impress your taste buds and provide a nutritious meal.

Instructions

Preparation Time: Clean the Beef Heart: Trim any fat, arteries, and connective tissue from the beef heart. Rinse it thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry with a paper towel, then slice the beef heart into even-sized strips or cubes. Marinate (Optional): Place the beef heart pieces in a bowl. Add olive oil, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better flavor).
Cooking Time: Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Brown the Beef Heart: Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the beef heart pieces. Sear until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it coats the beef and vegetables evenly. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Seasonings: Add bay leaves, thyme, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Simmer Until Tender: Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and reduce heat to low. Let the beef heart simmer for 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if the liquid reduces too much. Final Touches: Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Time: Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve the beef heart stew over rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American