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Original Carpaccio Recipe

Beef Carpaccio – The Original Recipe


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5 from 7 reviews

  • Author: Francesco Romano
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

The classic beef carpaccio from Harry’s Bar in Venice is a piece of art in its simple deliciousness. This is the original recipe, invented in the 1950’s.


Ingredients

Scale

2 lb beef sirloin, whole (1 kg)

3/4 cup good-quality mayonnaise (180 ml, preferably homemade)

12 tsp Worcestershire sauce, to taste (510 ml)

1 tsp fresh lemon juice (5 ml)

23 tbsp whole milk (3045 ml)

Salt and freshly ground white pepper, to taste


Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a medium bowl, add 3/4 cup of good-quality mayonnaise.
  • Whisk in 1–2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice until well combined.
  • Gradually add 2–3 tablespoons of whole milk while whisking to achieve a thin consistency that barely coats the back of a spoon.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional Worcestershire sauce or lemon juice, if needed.
  • Set aside in the refrigerator. This sauce can be stored for up to 3 days in a sealed container.

2. Prepare the Beef:

  • Chill the Beef: Place the sirloin in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm it up. This will make it easier to slice thinly.
  • Trim the Beef: Use a sharp knife to trim away any fat, gristle, or sinew, leaving a clean piece of lean meat. Be cautious during this step to avoid injury.

3. Slice the Beef:

  • Using a long, razor-sharp knife, slice the beef into paper-thin slices. This step requires precision; the slices should be almost transparent.
  • Arrange the slices on individual plates or a large serving platter, ensuring that they cover the surface completely. This recipe makes about six to eight servings.

4. Serve the Carpaccio:

  • Drizzle the prepared sauce decoratively over the slices of beef.
  • Optionally, garnish with freshly ground white pepper and a light sprinkle of salt.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Choosing the Beef: Sirloin is recommended for its robust flavor, but beef tenderloin can also be used for a milder taste and easier handling.

Slicing Tips: If slicing at home, chill the meat first for easier handling. If you’re uncomfortable slicing thinly, ask your butcher to do it for you, but only if you plan to serve within a couple of hours.

Safety Tip: Use a very sharp knife for slicing to ensure clean cuts. Take your time and be cautious to avoid injury.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Antipasto, Appetizer
  • Method: Raw Food
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 113g
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 330mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 220mg