Description
This nourishing and protein-rich beef tea recipe is a simple yet powerful Victorian-era remedy, perfect for digestion, immunity, and recovery. Made by simmering lean beef in water, it produces a clear, umami-rich broth that is easy to digest and deeply comforting. Enjoy it warm as a restorative drink or as a light alternative to traditional beef broth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) lean beef (rump, brisket, or shank) – finely chopped
- 4 cups (1 liter) water – preferably filtered
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
- Optional for extra flavor:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 whole clove
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter (for richness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Trim all fat and sinew from the beef, then finely chop or mince it for better nutrient extraction.
- Simmer the Tea (Traditional Method):
- Place the beef in a heatproof jar or pot.
- Pour in cold water and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Slowly heat using a bain-marie (double boiler) or a low flame, keeping the temperature gentle.
- Simmer for 3-4 hours, skimming off impurities as needed.
- Instant Pot Method:
- Place all ingredients in the Instant Pot.
- Set to Pressure Cook on Low for 1 hour or Slow Cook for 4-5 hours.
- Strain and Serve:
- Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all solids.
- Serve warm as is or with a touch of salt or butter.
- Storage:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Notes
- For a richer broth, add marrow bones or simmer for an extra hour.
- For extra medicinal benefits, add ginger or garlic.
- If the tea tastes too mild, season with a pinch of salt or lemon juice before serving.
- Best enjoyed warm as a comforting, protein-packed drink.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Drinks, Broth, Medicinal Food
- Method: Simmering, Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Victorian, Traditional English
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 250ml)
- Calories: ~80 kcal
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg (varies with salt content)
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: beef tea recipe, Victorian beef tea, healing beef broth, meat tea, protein-rich broth, beef infusion