Steak Tartare
Hawker • Singapore
About Steak Tartare
Steak Tartare is a classic French-inspired dish, but at a Singapore hawker stall, it’s a rare sight and caters mainly to adventurous palates. Prepared with finely chopped raw beef, typically Australian sirloin or tenderloin, it’s mixed with seasonings like shallots, capers, and egg yolk, then garnished with herbs. At the hawker, steak tartare is usually served chilled in a shallow plate, sometimes with a side of toast or crackers to complement the rich texture and flavour. The hawker version may be more approachable—less formal, and sometimes tweaked with local seasonings like a hint of spicy mustard or fresh coriander, reflecting Singapore’s multi-ethnic culinary touch. Nutritionally, steak tartare is high in protein (20g per 100g) and contains moderate fat (12g per 100g). There are almost no carbohydrates or fibre, making it a heavier dish especially for those watching their fat intake. One portion, often 100–150g, can deliver up to 375 kcal. Since it's uncooked beef, hygiene is crucial, so choose hawker stalls with strict food safety standards. Tartare is typically not a main course but enjoyed as a starter – sharing it can be sensible if you’re watching calories or want to sample a variety of hawker fare. Pair it with a light salad or simple beverage to balance the meal.
How to Make Vegetarian Steak Tartare (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vegetarian Steak Tartare is a creative take on the classic French dish, reimagined through the lens of Singapore’s vibrant kopitiam and hawker culture. While steak tartare traditionally features raw beef, this plant-based version uses finely diced mushrooms and beets to mimic the texture and robust umami flavor, making it perfect for health-conscious foodies and vegetarians alike. This dish pays homage to Singapore’s love for fusion cuisine, blending European gourmet techniques with local produce and flavors. In Singapore, inventive adaptations of global classics are often found in modern hawker centres and trendy cafes. This healthy vegetarian tartare is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. It’s an ideal starter or light meal for those who enjoy complex flavors without heavy calories. The tangy capers, fresh herbs, and zesty dressing evoke the lively, multicultural energy of Singapore’s food scene, where tradition meets innovation on every plate.
Ingredients(for 1 small plate, suitable for sharing at a Singapore kopitiam)
- 1 cup Fresh shiitake mushrooms (finely diced)
- 1/2 cup Cooked beetroot (peeled and finely diced)
- 2 tbsp Shallots (finely minced)
- 1 tbsp Capers (drained and chopped)
- 2 tbsp Gherkins (finely diced)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 tsp Soy sauce (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 4 slices Wholemeal baguette (toasted, for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add diced shiitake mushrooms and sauté without oil for 5 minutes to remove excess moisture. Set aside to cool.
7 minutes
Dry sauté mushrooms to intensify umami flavor.
- 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled mushrooms, diced beetroot, shallots, capers, and gherkins.
3 minutes
Dice all vegetables uniformly for the best texture.
- 3
In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, olive oil, soy sauce, and black pepper to create the dressing.
2 minutes
Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning to your preference.
- 4
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture. Gently fold with a spatula until well combined.
2 minutes
Mix gently to avoid mashing the ingredients.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By using fresh vegetables like mushrooms and beetroot instead of raw meat, this recipe significantly reduces saturated fat and cholesterol content, making it suitable for weight management and heart health. It’s low in calories, high in nutrients, and contains no added sugars. The inclusion of wholemeal bread boosts fiber intake, supporting digestion and long-lasting energy. This vegetarian tartare is a smart, health-conscious alternative to traditional versions, without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
This vegetarian tartare is rich in dietary fiber, plant-based protein, and antioxidants from beetroot and mushrooms. Mushrooms provide B vitamins and minerals like selenium, while beets offer folate and manganese. Capers and parsley add micronutrients and a burst of flavor without extra calories or fat. The use of olive oil supplies healthy monounsaturated fats that support heart health. This dish is low in cholesterol and can be easily adapted for various dietary preferences.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Dice all vegetables finely for the most authentic tartare texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Let the tartare chill to allow flavors to harmonize fully.
- 💡Tip 3: For added local flair, sprinkle with crispy shallots before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir before serving. Not suitable for freezing.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 250.0 kcal |
| Protein | 20.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Total Fat | 12.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
Cultural Notes
Steak tartare is not a common feature at Singapore hawker centres and is usually found in boutique or fusion stalls catering to diverse tastes. Its presence reflects the willingness of hawker culture to experiment with global flavours while retaining local touches.
