Montserratian Spiced Beef Tartare

Ingredients

In this Montserratian adaptation, we infuse the traditional German Hackepeter with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. We replace the traditional German spices with a blend of Montserratian spices, such as allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper, to give the dish a distinct Caribbean twist. Additionally, we incorporate fresh lime juice and local herbs to enhance the flavors and add a refreshing element to the tartare. We alse have the original recipe for Hackepeter, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef tenderloin, finely chopped 500g (1.1 lb) beef tenderloin, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped 1 scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Plantain chips, for serving Plantain chips, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped beef, onion, garlic, scotch bonnet pepper, thyme, allspice, lime juice, and olive oil.
2. 2.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. 3.
   Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. 4.
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with plantain chips.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef tenderloin — Ensure that the beef is fresh and of high quality. It is crucial to finely chop the beef to achieve the desired texture for the tartare.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in the scotch bonnet pepper. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
• Serve the Montserratian Spiced Beef Tartare on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for an added crunch and presentation.
• If plantain chips are not available, you can serve the tartare with toasted bread or crackers.

Serving advice

Montserratian Spiced Beef Tartare is best served chilled. Arrange the tartare on individual plates or a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with plantain chips on the side.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, you can shape the tartare into small rounds using a ring mold. Place the rounds on the plate and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a lime wedge for an extra pop of color.