Guide to Beef Heart: Benefits & How to Cook It

Beef hearts are a great choice for people who enjoy nutrient-dense, flavorful and economical meat options. While it may seem like an unusual choice at first, beef heart’s robust beefy flavor and impressive nutritional profile can quickly change minds.

Beef heart makes an excellent choice for those looking to try something new without compromising on taste or health benefits. In addition to its lean steak-like flavor, beef heart offers high levels of essential vitamins and minerals.

Local, sustainable farms like Acabonac Farms produce the most nutrient-rich grass-fed beef hearts, making them the go-to choice for people ready to try beef heart and other organ meats such as grass-fed beef liver and grass-fed beef tongue.

The guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting, cooking and serving beef heart, as well as its nutritional benefits.

Key takeaways:

Beef heart is a flavorful, nutrient-rich organ meat from cattle, known for its lean texture and robust, steak-like taste.
Beef heart is packed with protein, B vitamins, iron and essential minerals.
Grass-fed beef heart is a superior option due to its higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins like A and E. Raised on natural forage, it’s leaner and cleaner, without added hormones or antibiotics.
You can buy grass-fed beef hearts — as well as many other options for grass-fed and pasture-raised beef, chicken, pork and lamb — from local farms like Acabonac Farms, a trusted, New York-based sustainable farm that ships orders to anywhere in the United States.

What is beef heart?

Beef heart is nutrient-dense organ meat from cattle. It offers a high-protein, low-fat meat option packed with vitamins and minerals. For both health-conscious cooks and curious foodies, beef heart offers an excellent option to enjoy a different cut of meat.

Known for its unique texture and flavor, beef heart tastes similar to steak, though slightly richer and more robust.

Unlike liver, which has a distinct earthy taste and softer texture, beef heart is firmer and less intense, making it appealing to those who might feel hesitant about trying organ meats.

In terms of texture, beef heart is muscular and dense, similar to a well-worked cut of steak. It also holds up well in various cooking methods, including grilling, stir-frying and braising. Beef heart also is often priced lower than traditional cuts of beef like ribeye or sirloin.

Is beef heart good for you?

Yes, beef heart is generally considered healthy due to its nutritional profile and lean protein content. As an organ meat, beef heart is particularly rich in essential nutrients. It boasts a high protein content, as well as abundant amounts of iron and B vitamins, especially B12.

A unique benefit of beef heart is its high levels of CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10), an antioxidant known for supporting heart health, cellular energy and anti-aging benefits.

Beef heart nutritional overview

The following is based on a 3.5 ounce beef heart, about 100 grams. For vitamins and minerals, a percentage of Daily Value is included.

Nutrient	Amount	Daily Value %
Macronutrients
Protein	17.7g	-
Total Fat	3.9g	-
Calories	112	-
Vitamins
Vitamin B1	-	20%
Vitamin B2	-	70%
Vitamin B3	-	47%
Vitamin B5	-	36%
Vitamin B7	-	24%
Vitamin B12	-	356%
Minerals
Iron	-	24%
Magnesium	-	5%
Phosphorus	-	17%
Selenium	-	40%
Zinc	-	15%
Sodium	-	4%

Additional benefits of grass-fed beef heart

Grass-fed beef heart offers even more benefits. Grass-fed cattle produce meat with higher omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and heart health, and vitamins A and E, which boost immunity and skin health. Additionally, grass-fed beef heart is leaner and has fewer unhealthy fats. And with grass-fed beef from Acabonac Farms, there’s no need to worry about growth-promoting steroids or antibiotics because we don’t use them.

Where can I buy beef heart?

When looking to buy beef heart, local farms, butchers and specialty grocers are great places to start. Many local farms, such as Acabonac Farms, prioritize sustainable practices and offer a cleaner, more nutritious product.

For those who prefer the convenience of buying meat online, Acabonac Farms is a trusted source for grass-fed beef heart. Our reputable farm offers online ordering and delivers nationwide, making it easy to find top-quality beef heart from anywhere in the U.S. Acabonac Farms is known for raising cattle sustainably, which not only supports environmental health but also delivers a superior product.

How to prepare beef heart for cooking

To prepare beef heart for cooking, start by trimming and cleaning it thoroughly. Begin by placing the heart on a clean cutting surface and carefully trim away any visible fat and connective tissue.
Use a sharp knife to remove the outer membrane and any sinew or tough sections. This step ensures that only the tender muscle remains, making it easier to cook and enhancing the meat's overall texture.
Once trimmed, marinating beef heart can improve flavor and tenderness. A marinade of acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus, combined with olive oil, garlic and herbs, infuses the meat with flavor and tenderizes it further.
Let the heart marinate for at least a few hours, or even overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.

How to cook beef heart

Beef heart should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety, as it is considered a variety meat/organ meat. However, many culinary experts prefer cooking it to medium-rare at 145°F (63°C) followed by a 3-minute rest period, similar to whole muscle beef cuts, to maintain tenderness and prevent it from becoming tough.

Here are the best ways to cook beef heart:

Grilling beef heart

Grilling beef heart brings out the natural, robust flavor of grass-fed beef while keeping the lean meat tender and juicy. To grill, slice the heart into thin, even pieces, marinate and then cook over medium-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side. For optimal doneness, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F to 140°F, which keeps the meat tender without overcooking. This quick cooking method preserves nutrients and the char from the grill enhances flavor.

Sautéing beef heart

Sautéing beef heart allows for quick, flavorful preparation, preserving the meat’s tenderness and rich nutrients. To sauté, slice the heart thinly, season, and cook in a hot pan with a small amount of oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side, aiming for an internal temperature of around 135°F. This method caramelizes the outside while keeping the inside juicy, delivering a flavor that pairs well with vegetables or grains.

Slow cooking beef heart

This works well for stews or braising, which help break down tougher fibers and bring out the richness of grass-fed meat. To slow cook, place the beef heart in a crockpot with broth, vegetables, and seasonings, cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours until the meat reaches an internal temperature of around 160°F to 170°F and becomes tender. This method breaks down connective tissues, enhancing the flavor.

Stuffing and roasting beef heart

Popular recipes for beef heart

There are many popular dishes that work well with beef heart. Some of our favorite beef heart recipes include:

Beef heart skewers

For beef heart skewers, also known as anticuchos in Peruvian cuisine, a simple marinade and grill approach creates a flavorful dish with a tender texture.
To prepare, slice beef heart into bite-sized cubes, marinate them for several hours in a mix of oil, vinegar, garlic and spices like cumin and paprika.
After marinating, skewer the meat and grill it over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side for a slightly charred, juicy finish.

Beef heart tacos

Begin by trimming the beef heart and dicing it into small cubes.
Season the meat with cumin, oregano and a bit of salt, then sear in a hot skillet with a small amount of oil until browned, which should take just a few minutes as beef heart cooks quickly.
For serving, pair the beef heart with warm corn tortillas and top with classic taco garnishes like guacamole, salsa roja and pickled onions.

Beef heart stew

Here’s a simple recipe for making a hearty beef heart stew.

Start by trimming the beef heart, then cut it into one-inch cubes.
In a skillet, brown the pieces in a bit of oil, adding garlic, onions and spices like cumin, paprika and oregano.
Once browned, transfer everything to a slow cooker with beef broth and let it cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until tender.
Serve the stew over mashed potatoes, noodles or cauliflower rice. It’s especially perfect for cold days.

How to store beef heart

Always store raw beef heart in the fridge or freezer. In the fridge, wrap the beef heart tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Raw beef heart will stay fresh for up to two days.
If you plan to keep it longer, freeze it by sealing it in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
In the freezer, raw beef heart can last 3 to 4 months and still retain its quality.
Once cooked, beef heart should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and eaten within three to four days.
If freezing cooked beef heart, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container to prevent condensation. To maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating, avoid the microwave. Instead, reheat gently in a skillet or covered dish in the oven to prevent it from becoming tough.

Buy grass-fed beef heart online from Acabonac Farms

Beef heart provides a healthy alternative for those looking to try something different. Grass-fed beef takes all the benefits of beef heart to the next level, providing a nutrient-dense, vitamin-rich cut of beef that offers both great flavor and health benefits.

For the best grass-fed beef hearts available, Acabonac Farms offers sustainably sourced options that combine rich flavor and health benefits.

Buy beef heart and other 100% grass-fed beef online from Acabonac Farms for your next meal. We offer delivery across the US. Support sustainable, local farming by purchasing directly from a trusted New York-based farm.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about beef heart

Is beef heart like steak?

Yes, beef heart has a texture and flavor similar to lean steak but with a slightly richer, more robust taste. It’s firmer and denser than steak, often described as a mix between steak and organ meat.

Is cow heart considered beef?

Yes, cow heart is considered beef since it comes from cattle and is classified as red meat.

Is beef heart good for dogs?

Yes, beef heart is good for dogs, as it is a lean protein source rich in vitamins and nutrients. Feeding dogs beef heart can help provide a balanced diet, but it’s best to introduce it gradually and consult with a vet.

Is beef heart gamey?

Beef heart has a mildly gamey flavor, but it’s generally less intense than other organ meats like liver. Its taste is closer to lean steak, with a slightly richer and more robust flavor.

Is beef heart gross?

Whether beef heart — or any food — is "gross" largely depends on personal taste, but many people find it delicious when prepared well.

Is it safe to eat beef heart rare?

Yes, it is generally safe to eat beef heart rare as long as it is sourced from a reputable provider and handled properly.

Is beef heart healthier than beef?

Yes, beef heart is often considered healthier than regular cuts of beef due to its higher concentration of certain nutrients and lower fat content.

How often can I eat beef heart?

You can eat beef heart regularly as part of a balanced diet, though in moderation, as with any food. Eating it once or twice a week is generally considered fine.