Beef Tea--no. 1 Recipe

Beef tea, also known as beef broth, is a nourishing and comforting beverage made from beef and water. It has a long history and has been consumed for centuries for its restorative properties. Invented in the 18th century, beef tea was originally used as a medicinal remedy for invalids, athletes, and those recovering from illness.

The recipe for Beef Tea--no. 1 is simple and requires only a few ingredients to create a flavorful and hearty broth. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

Ingredients:
- 1 lb. Gravy Beef
- 1 pint water
- 3d. (three pennyworth of meat)

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the meat. Remove all fat and skin from the beef, ensuring that only lean meat remains. This will help create a clear and rich broth.

2. Once the meat is cleaned, you have two options to prepare it for cooking. You can either put it twice through a sausage machine, which will finely mince the meat, or you can scrape it into a pulp with a sharp knife. Choose the method that is most convenient for you.

3. Place the minced or pulped meat into a bowl and pour the cold water over it. Allow it to stand for approximately one hour. This step helps to extract the flavors and nutrients from the meat.

4. After an hour of soaking, transfer the meat and water mixture into a brown baking jar. The jar should be oven-safe and have a lid to maintain the heat and moisture during cooking.

5. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, ideally below boiling point. Place the jar with the meat mixture inside and let it cook for approximately an hour or longer, depending on the heat of your oven. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the flavors develop and the broth becomes rich and flavorful.

6. When the beef tea is sufficiently cooked, it should have a brown, thick, and rich appearance. The aroma will be comforting and inviting. Carefully remove the jar from the oven, taking precautions not to burn yourself.

7. Strain the cooked beef tea through a colander into a clean container. This step helps remove any remaining solids, leaving a clear and smooth broth. At this point, you can taste the broth and add salt to your liking.

8. Your homemade Beef Tea--no. 1 is now ready to serve. You can enjoy it warm as a comforting beverage on its own or use it as a base for soups, stews, or other dishes that call for beef broth.

Fun Facts about Beef Tea:
- Beef tea became popular in the 17th and 18th centuries as an easy-to-digest and nutrient-rich beverage for the sick and ailing.
- During the Crimean War in the 19th century, beef tea gained significant attention for its restorative properties. Florence Nightingale introduced it as a staple in military hospitals to aid in the recovery of wounded soldiers.
- In the Victorian era, beef tea was considered a luxurious and sophisticated beverage, often consumed as part of afternoon tea.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Beef Consommé: This is a clarified beef broth that is more elevated and refined. It involves simmering the beef stock with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes egg whites, resulting in a crystal-clear and flavorful consommé.
2. Beef Bone Broth: Bone broth is made by simmering beef bones, vegetables, and aromatics for an extended period of time, usually 24-48 hours. It is rich in collagen and minerals, making it a nutritious and healing beverage.
3. Beef and Vegetable Soup: If you prefer a heartier and more substantial dish, you can use the beef tea as a base for a beef and vegetable soup. Add your choice of vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and celery, along with cooked beef to create a comforting and wholesome meal.

Remember, Beef Tea--no. 1 is not only delicious and satisfying but also provides essential nutrients and warmth, making it a perfect choice for those seeking nourishment and comfort.