Slow Cooker Beef Heart: Easy, Delicious, and Nutritious Recipe

Looking for a unique and nutritious dish that’s both easy to prepare and delicious? Cooking beef heart in a slow cooker might sound adventurous, but it’s actually simple and rewarding. The slow cooker transforms this underrated cut into a tender, flavorful meal packed with nutrients. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know—from prepping the beef heart to serving it up for a comforting family dinner.

Why Cook Beef Heart?

Beef heart is a hidden gem in the world of organ meats. It’s affordable, lean, and loaded with protein, iron, B vitamins, and essential minerals. While it might seem intimidating if you haven’t cooked organ meats before, beef heart has a surprisingly mild flavor and a texture similar to a lean steak when cooked properly. The slow cooker is perfect for breaking down its muscle fibers, making it tender and juicy without much effort.

What Does Beef Heart Taste Like?

If you’re unsure about the taste, rest easy—beef heart doesn’t have the strong, gamey flavor some other organ meats do. Instead, it tastes beefy and rich, almost like a cross between steak and roast beef. When cooked slowly with herbs and vegetables, it takes on the flavors of your seasonings while staying moist and satisfying.

Where to Buy Beef Heart

You can often find beef heart at butcher shops, local meat markets, or specialty grocery stores. Some farmers’ markets or online meat suppliers also carry it. If you don’t see it in the meat section, ask your butcher—they may be able to order it for you.

Preparing Beef Heart for the Slow Cooker

Preparation is key to a delicious dish. Here’s how to get your beef heart ready:

• Trim the Heart: Rinse the heart under cold water. Use a sharp knife to trim away any connective tissue, fat, or blood vessels from the exterior. This step helps improve the texture.
• Slice or Leave Whole: You can cook the heart whole or cut it into chunks or strips. Slicing into 1-inch thick pieces allows more seasoning to penetrate and can reduce cooking time.

Simple Slow Cooker Beef Heart Recipe

This easy recipe brings out the best in beef heart with minimal effort. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 beef heart (about 2-3 pounds)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1-2 cups beef broth (enough to cover the bottom of your slow cooker)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for browning (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Heart: Trim and rinse the beef heart as described above. Cut into pieces if desired.
2. Browning (Optional): For extra flavor, heat a skillet with a little olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the heart pieces on all sides for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.
3. Add Vegetables: Place onions, garlic, carrots, and celery at the bottom of your slow cooker.
4. Add Beef Heart: Lay the prepared beef heart pieces on top of the vegetables.
5. Season: Sprinkle with thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
6. Add Broth: Pour enough beef broth into the slow cooker to cover the bottom and partially submerge the ingredients (about 1-2 cups).
7. Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 7-8 hours or high for about 4-5 hours. The beef heart should be fork-tender when done.
8. Serve: Remove the beef heart and slice if cooked whole. Serve with the cooked vegetables and some of the flavorful broth.

Tasty Variations

• Add Potatoes: Toss in diced potatoes for a hearty one-pot meal.
• Spice It Up: Add smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for a bolder flavor profile.
• Make It Italian: Swap in Italian seasoning and add a can of diced tomatoes for an Italian-style stew.

Tips for Cooking Beef Heart in a Slow Cooker

• Browning is Optional: Searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary if you’re short on time.
• Don’t Overcook: While slow cookers are forgiving, too much time can make even beef heart dry. Stick to recommended times.
• Add Acid: A splash of vinegar or lemon juice brightens flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings halfway through if possible for best results.

Serving Suggestions

This slow-cooked beef heart is versatile! Try serving it with mashed potatoes, over rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Beef Heart

Beef heart is not only tasty but also incredibly nutritious. It’s rich in protein for muscle health, iron for energy, zinc for immunity, and B vitamins for overall wellness. It’s also lower in fat than many other cuts of beef—making it an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthy on a budget.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is beef heart tough?

If cooked quickly at high heat, beef heart can be chewy. However, slow cooking breaks down tough fibers and makes it tender and enjoyable.

Does beef heart taste like liver?

No—beef heart has a much milder flavor than liver. It tastes more like regular beef with a slightly richer taste.

Can I freeze cooked beef heart?

Absolutely! Let leftovers cool completely before storing them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Reheat gently to preserve tenderness.

Is beef heart safe to eat?

Yes! As long as it’s fresh and handled properly, beef heart is safe and healthy to eat—just like any other cut of beef.

How do I know when beef heart is done?

The meat should be fork-tender—meaning you can easily pull it apart with a fork. If it’s still tough after recommended cooking time, let it cook another hour and check again.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons or simply want an affordable source of nutrition-packed protein, give slow cooker beef heart a try! With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you’ll have a comforting meal that surprises everyone with its flavor and tenderness. Don’t forget to experiment with different seasonings and vegetables to make this dish truly your own!