What is beef consomme?

Beef Consommé: A Clear and Flavorful Soup

Beef consommé is a clarified broth made from beef. It's known for its rich flavor, crystal clear appearance, and elegant presentation. It is often served as a starter course.

• Preparation: The key to consommé is clarification. This is achieved through a process involving a "raft," which is a mixture of ground meat, egg whites, mirepoix (diced vegetables), and acidic ingredients (like tomato or lemon juice).
• The Raft: As the consommé simmers, the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/raft" title="raft">raft</a> coagulates and slowly rises to the top of the pot. It attracts and traps impurities, resulting in a clear broth underneath.
• Ingredients: Typical ingredients include beef stock, ground beef, mirepoix, <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/egg%20whites" title="egg whites">egg whites</a>, tomatoes, and herbs (such as thyme and parsley).
• Flavor: The slow simmering process extracts maximum flavor from the beef and vegetables, creating a deeply savory and nuanced taste.
• Serving: Beef consommé can be served hot or cold, and is often garnished with sherry, Madeira, or finely diced vegetables. It can also be used as a base for other sauces and soups.
• Key Characteristics: Its defining features are its intense beef flavor, clarity, and lightness. Fat is carefully removed during the process to ensure the consommé is virtually fat-free.