Beef Heart Stew Keto Recipe: Rich, Savory, and Low-Carb
Whether you're on a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a wholesome and hearty dish, this stew is a great choice for a warm and nourishing meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Beef Heart Stew (Keto-Friendly):
- 1.5 lbs beef heart trimmed and cut into bite-sized stew meat
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil for searing
- 4 cups beef broth low-sodium, for a rich base
- 1 medium onion diced (adds depth of flavor)
- 3 garlic cloves minced (for a savory kick)
- 2 celery stalks chopped (low-carb veggie option)
- 1 small turnip peeled and diced (a keto-friendly potato substitute)
- 1 small amount of carrots peeled and sliced (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 bay leaf for aromatic flavor
- 1 tsp smoked paprika adds a smoky richness
- 1 tsp dried thyme for earthy notes
- 1 tsp rosemary for a hint of freshness
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp tomato paste adds depth without too many carbs
- ½ cup dry red wine optional, for extra flavor
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup mushrooms sliced (for an umami boost)
- 1 small zucchini diced (another low-carb veggie option)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef Heart
- Trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the beef heart.
- Cut the beef heart into bite-sized pieces, similar to traditional stew meat.
- Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly.
- Step 2: Sear the Meat
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the beef heart pieces in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the stew.
- Transfer the seared meat to your slow cooker.
- Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp thyme, and 1 tsp rosemary. Cook for another minute to release the flavors.
- Pour in 1/2 cup dry red wine (if using) to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Assemble the Stew in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker with the beef heart.
- Add 4 cups beef broth, chopped celery, diced turnip, and a small amount of peeled and sliced carrots (if using).
- Drop in 1 bay leaf and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on medium heat for 4-5 hours. The long, slow cooking process will tenderize the beef heart and meld the flavors together.
- Step 6: Adjust and Serve
- Once the stew is done, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.
- Step 7: Enjoy!
- Ladle the stew into bowls and serve hot. This rich, savory, and low-carb Beef Heart Stew is perfect for a cozy keto dinner.
Optional Tips:
- For a thicker stew, mix 1 tbsp of almond flour with 2 tbsp of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other keto-friendly veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for variety.