Beef jelly

Beef Jelly - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Beef jelly is a traditional dish that has won the hearts of many due to its rich flavor and gelatinous texture. This recipe is not just a simple dish, but a culinary story full of tradition, reminiscent of family holiday meals. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion or want to indulge in an authentic treat, beef jelly is the perfect choice.

Ingredients needed

- 1 kg beef (shoulder or neck meat is ideal, as it contains collagen)
- 2 heads of garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus additional salt to taste)
- Whole peppercorns (a few)
- Cold water (enough to cover the meat, plus an extra 3-4 cm)

Preparing Beef Jelly

Step 1: Preparing the meat
The first step in preparing beef jelly is to ensure you have quality meat. Choose meat with a good collagen content, as this is essential for achieving the perfect jelly texture. Wash the meat well under cold water to remove impurities. Place the meat in a tall pot and add cold water, ensuring it is covered by an extra 3-4 cm above the meat level.

Step 2: Gelatin extraction technique
Add a teaspoon of salt, which will not only enhance the flavor but also help form the foam. Now, set the pot aside for 20 minutes. This step allows the gelatin to gradually come out of the meat, ensuring that the jelly will be well-bound.

Step 3: Boiling
After 20 minutes, place the pot on low heat. It is essential for the jelly to simmer very gently to avoid excessive foaming and to achieve a clear liquid. Use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms initially. When the water begins to boil, add a few peppercorns and the whole heads of garlic.

Step 4: Slow cooking
Let the jelly simmer for about 3 hours, covered with a lid but tilted to allow steam to escape. It is a slow process, but it is worth it. You will know it is ready when the meat easily separates from the bones and the broth has reduced. A simple check is to take a drop of the broth between your fingers; if it is sticky, the jelly is ready.

Step 5: Straining the broth
Once the jelly is cooked, strain the broth through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to obtain a clear liquid. Add the remaining garlic, pepper, and salt to taste. This is the moment you can customize the recipe by adding your favorite spices or herbs.

Molding the Jelly

Step 6: Preparing the molds
Choose bowls or deep plates to pour the jelly into. Place the meat in the molds, then pour the strained broth over it, ensuring that the meat is completely covered.

Step 7: Cooling
Let the molds sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then refrigerate them to set. The jelly is ready when it is firm and easily separates from the sides of the mold.

Serving the Jelly

The jelly is usually served cold, sliced, alongside a piece of fresh bread or with mustard. It is an excellent choice for festive meals, but also for a delicious snack.

Useful Tips and Variations

- Gelatin: If you want a firmer jelly, you can add extra gelatin to the strained broth. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package.
- Mixed meat: You can experiment with other types of meat, such as pork or lamb, to achieve a jelly with different flavors.
- Serving: The jelly can be served with a beet salad or pickles, which will add a refreshing note.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef jelly is rich in protein and collagen, making it beneficial for skin and joint health. Additionally, garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can the jelly be frozen? Yes, the jelly can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve its texture.
- How can I check if the jelly is properly cooked? You can do the plate test, as mentioned above; if the broth sets, it is ready.
- What other spices can I use? You can add bay leaves or allspice berries to diversify the flavor.

Conclusion

Preparing beef jelly is an art that requires patience, but the end result is truly rewarding. This recipe not only brings an authentic taste to your table but also offers you the opportunity to connect with culinary traditions. Enjoy your meal!