The Beef Consume

 

Beef consommé is a clear and flavourful broth made from beef stock that has been clarified to remove impurities and create a richly concentrated flavour. Here's a general process for preparing beef consommé:

 

1. Prepare the Beef Stock: Start by making a rich beef stock. This involves simmering beef bones, such as beef shanks or soup bones, along with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, in water for several hours. The long simmering time helps extract the flavours and nutrients from the bones and vegetables.

 

2. Clarification: To clarify the beef stock and turn it into consommé, you'll need to create a raft. Combine a mixture of ground beef or ground beef with other ingredients like egg whites, finely chopped vegetables, and herbs. Mix them together and add them to the stock. The proteins in the ground beef and egg whites help trap impurities and create a solid "raft" on top.

 

3. Simmer and Skim: Place the pot with the stock and raft over low heat and let it simmer gently for around 1-2 hours. As it simmers, the raft will rise to the surface, and impurities will get trapped in it. Use a spoon to carefully skim off any foam or impurities that collect on the surface during this time.

 

4. Strain: Once the consommé has simmered and the raft has formed, carefully strain the consommé through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. The liquid will pass through while the raft and impurities will be left behind, resulting in a clear and clarified beef consommé.

 

5. Adjust the Flavour: Taste the consommé and adjust the seasoning, if needed, with salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices. You can also add additional flavourings like a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of brandy, depending on your preference.

 

Beef consommé is a versatile base for various dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a comforting and flavourful soup. Its clear and concentrated nature makes it an elegant choice for special occasions or as a refined starter.