Chef Big DA masterclass in texture and temperature, featuring hand-chopped prime beef, cold-smoked oil, and a flash-seared exterior for maximum aromatic impact.
Place the beef tenderloin in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up, making it easier to achieve a precise, clean dice. Do not let it freeze through.
A sharp knife is non-negotiable here; you want to cut the fibers, not crush them.
Hand-mince the beef into 1/4-inch cubes. In a chilled stainless steel bowl, combine the beef, shallots, capers, and Dijon mustard. Fold gently to maintain structural integrity.
Work over an ice bath if your kitchen is warm to keep the fat from emulsifying prematurely.
In a small ramekin, whisk the olive oil, liquid smoke, and heavy cream until a high-viscosity emulsion forms. Season with a whisper of salt.
This adds the 'pit' essence without needing to fire up the offset for a 5-minute dish.
Using a ring mold, pack the tartare tightly onto a chilled plate. Create a small indentation in the center and carefully place the raw egg yolk inside.
Presentation is 50% of the experience in fine dining BBQ.
Using a culinary blowtorch, quickly sear the outer edges of the tartare mound for 5-10 seconds until the 'bark' just begins to caramelize and release its aroma.
This is the 'Blueberry' technique—raw center, charred exterior.
Drizzle the smoked emulsion around the base, sprinkle with flaky salt and chives, and serve immediately with toasted brioche points.
The key to this dish is the contrast between the cold, silky beef and the warm, smoky fat. Use a blowtorch for the most control, but a screaming hot cast iron will work if you're fast. Do not over-process the capers; you want that briny texture to cut through the richness of the yolk. Keep it classy, keep it smoky.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.