If you’ve ever been hesitant to try “wobbly bits,” fear no more! This grilled elk heart taco recipe is here to change your mind. Marinated in a flavorful sauce and served in warm tortillas, these tacos are a perfect introduction to the world of heart meat. And if you’re a taco lover like me, this is a recipe you don’t want to miss!
How to Break Down an Elk Heart
Breaking down a heart may seem daunting, but once you remove the tough parts, you’ll be amazed by the quality meat beneath. Whether you want to cook it like a steak or use it in various recipes, like grilled heart skewers, follow these steps to enjoy this delicious meat:
- Start with a sharp knife, preferably a filet/deboning knife.
- Remove all the fat from the outside, as it can become waxy when cooked.
- Cut off the vessels from the top of the heart.
- Carefully cut along the vessel on the front to remove the left ventricle.
- Continue cutting until the ventricle opens up.
- Remove the left ventricle and any other tough materials (tendons, vessels, etc.).
- Cut the remaining meat into steaks, and you’re ready to cook!
How to Cook Elk Heart
Cooking heart meat is similar to cooking any other wild game steak. However, if you’re feeling a bit nervous, marinating the meat for tacos is a fantastic option. Here’s how to do it:
- Tenderize the meat before marinating to enhance flavor absorption.
- Prepare a marinade with plenty of lime juice and chipotles for a burst of flavor.
- Let the meat marinate for a few hours.
- Skewer the meat accordion-style, leaving enough space for even cooking.
- Fire up the grill and cook the skewers for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Be mindful not to overcook the heart, as it can dry out quickly.
How to Make Pickled Jalapeños
Add a spicy and tangy kick to your tacos with homemade pickled jalapeños. Making them is incredibly easy:
- Slice fresh jalapeños thinly and place them in a pint jar.
- Add a couple of garlic cloves to the jar.
- Simmer a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, and sugar.
- Pour the brine over the jalapeños.
- Allow the jar to cool for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate.
- The pickled jalapeños will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, ready to be used as toppings for tacos, nachos, burritos, salads, and more.
How to Make Avocado Crema
Avoid squishy avocado slices in your tacos and opt for a creamy and zesty avocado crema instead. Here’s how to whip it up:
- Blend an avocado, sour cream or yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Keep the crema refrigerated in an airtight container for a few days.
- To prevent browning, squeeze out any excess air or cover the surface with plastic wrap.
- Prepare to be amazed by this smooth and flavorful taco sauce!
How to Cut a Pineapple for Tacos
Pineapple adds a delightful sweetness and juiciness to tacos. To ensure it stays inside your taco and doesn’t slip out, follow these steps to cut it into perfect slices:
- Remove the top and bottom of the pineapple.
- Stand the pineapple upright and slice off the peel from top to bottom.
- Cut the pineapple in half from top to bottom.
- Turn each half 90 degrees and cut them in half again.
- Remove the tough core from each quarter.
- Slice each quarter into thin slices.
- Enjoy mess-free pineapple slices in your tacos!
Putting It All Together
Now that you have your succulent grilled heart meat, tasty toppings, and perfect tortillas, it’s time to assemble your tacos. Here’s what you do:
- Warm up your favorite tortillas; corn and wheat blend tortillas work beautifully.
- Fill the tortillas with the grilled heart meat.
- Add a slice of pineapple for a burst of sweetness.
- Top with pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Drizzle with avocado crema for creaminess.
- Squeeze fresh lime over the top for tanginess.
- For added crunch, consider adding jicama mango salsa.
- Pair your tacos with your favorite cerveza and savor every bite!
Save hearts, eat tacos. It’s the perfect mantra for your next adventure in the woods! If you’re looking for more mouthwatering recipes, visit Ekilove for a treasure trove of culinary delights.
Other Recipes You’ll Love:
- How to break down an elk heart
- How to cook elk heart
- How to make pickled jalapeños
- How to make avocado crema
- How to cut a pineapple for tacos
- Putting it all together
