Many cultures around the world enjoy raw meat dishes, with two of the most famous being carpaccio and tartare. But what truly sets these two apart? Let’s dive into their origins, preparation, and unique characteristics, starting with a broader concept in the culinary world: crudo.
What Is Crudo?
“Crudo” is an Italian term referring to dishes made with raw ingredients like fish, shellfish, or meat, often enhanced with seasonings such as olive oil, citrus juice, or vinaigrettes. Crudo doesn’t refer to a specific cut or style but simply to the use of uncooked, fresh ingredients prepared with light flavorings.
Tartare: A Dish with Roots in Warrior Culture
It’s believed that early warrior tribes called the Tatars stored raw beef or horse meat under their saddles, softening it for later consumption. Though the exact reasons for this method aren’t known, we do know that finely chopping or dicing raw meat became popular centuries later in France, evolving into what we now recognize as tartare.
Today’s tartare—typically diced or minced raw beef with egg yolk, capers, onion, and Worcestershire sauce—has many variations. In Belgium, it’s known as filet américain, and in the Czech Republic, it’s called tatarsky biftek. Over time, tartare expanded beyond meat, with many recipes now incorporating seafood, vegetables, and even fruits paired with complementary sauces and seasonings.
Carpaccio: From Harry’s Bar to the World
Carpaccio originated in the iconic Harry’s Bar in Venice, which still operates today. Its creator, Giuseppe Cipriani, developed it for a countess who required a raw meat dish for health reasons. He sliced beef extremely thin and finished it with mayonnaise and Worcestershire sauce. Inspired by the vivid colors in the works of Renaissance painter Vittore Carpaccio, Cipriani named the dish after him.
Originally made exclusively with beef, carpaccio has since evolved, embracing raw fish, shellfish, and vegetables as base ingredients. These thin slices are typically garnished with lemon or vinegar, olive oil, Parmesan shavings, or a light vinaigrette.
Want to Try Carpaccio or Tartare at Home?
For those interested in making these dishes, here are two classic recipes to bring gourmet flavors into your kitchen.
Harry’s Bar-Style Carpaccio
Enjoy this classic carpaccio with thinly sliced beef, dressed with a touch of olive oil and lemon.
Beef Tartare on Toast with Corn and Truffle Mayo
This refreshing appetizer pairs diced beef with toasted bread, sweet corn, and luxurious truffle mayonnaise for a satisfying bite.
These elegant yet simple recipes bring a taste of culinary history and tradition straight to your plate.
