How to Make Tender and Flavorful Beef Tendon at Home

Beef tendon is a delicacy in many cuisines, prized for its rich, gelatinous texture and ability to absorb flavors. When cooked properly, it becomes tender, flavorful, and perfect for soups, stews, or braised dishes. Learning how to make tender and flavorful beef tendon at home may seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, it’s easier than you think.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) beef tendon
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, sliced
• 2–3 star anise pods
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine or dry sherry
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions or cilantro

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Clean and Pre-Cook the Tendon

1. Rinse the beef tendon under cold water.
2. Boil a pot of water and blanch the tendon for 5–10 minutes to remove impurities.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Braise the Tendon

1. Add the blanched beef tendon to the pot.
2. Pour in soy sauce, rice wine, and broth.
3. Add star anise and sugar if using.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 3–4 hours, or until the tendon becomes soft and gelatinous.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Check for tenderness and taste.
2. Season with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve the tender beef tendon in soups, stews, or with noodles.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added freshness.

Tips for Perfect Beef Tendon

• Low and slow cooking is key to achieving a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Using a pressure cooker can reduce cooking time to about 1–1.5 hours.
• Tendon pairs well with soy-based sauces, chilies, or herbal broths for rich flavor.

Cooking beef tendon at home yields a luxurious, flavorful ingredient that enhances any dish. With patience and the right method, you can enjoy tender, savory beef tendon without ever stepping into a restaurant.