Beef marrow, a delicacy sought after by many, is the soft tissue found within the bones of cattle, particularly the spine, shin, and thigh bones. These locations house the bone marrow, which produces blood cells in the cow’s body. Beef marrow has a rich, fatty flavor and is packed with nutrients such as collagen, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Beef Marrow – A Delicacy Sought by Many
When raw, beef marrow is milky white or slightly ivory in color and is quite soft. It sits snugly within the bone cavity. When cooked, it becomes clearer, with a soft and buttery texture, and a rich, fatty flavor. This marrow, while fatty, is not overpowering and has a natural sweetness derived from the beef.
Contrary to popular belief, beef marrow does not turn mushy or develop an unpleasant odor. Instead, it has a firm yet creamy texture, a rich aroma, and melts in your mouth.
Beef marrow is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, ranging from street food to haute cuisine. In popular Vietnamese dishes such as beef pho and bun bo Hue, the marrow adds a subtle sweetness and light fattiness to the broth.
Grilling or broiling is another popular way to prepare beef marrow, often served with scallion oil to create a delicious treat. The marrow is grilled to perfection over charcoal, and the addition of scallion oil provides an aromatic touch. This dish is commonly paired with toasted bread.
For a nutritious and digestive-friendly option, consider beef marrow stewed with vegetables. This combination enhances the nutritional profile of the dish.
There are numerous other ways to cook beef marrow, including grilling it with cheese or pan-frying it with red wine sauce…
Regardless of the cooking method, beef marrow retains its characteristic fattiness, making it a delectable choice.
You can purchase beef marrow from traditional markets, specialty food stores, or supermarkets. The price per kilogram typically ranges from 150,000 to 250,000 VND, depending on the type of bone and its freshness.
Some vendors also offer frozen beef marrow or the soft marrow separated from the bone, making it more convenient for storage and preparation.
Health Benefits of Bone Marrow
- Strengthens Bones and Joints
Bone marrow, in general, is rich in calcium and phosphorus, two essential minerals for building and maintaining strong bones. They help prevent age-related bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Bone marrow is also a source of collagen, which increases bone and joint durability and flexibility while improving skin elasticity.
- Provides Protein
Protein accounts for approximately 50% of bone volume and one-third of bone weight. Insufficient protein intake can hinder bone formation and decrease bone density. With 6.7 grams of protein per 100 grams, bone marrow is an excellent source of this vital nutrient, aiding in bone development during growth and slowing age-related bone degeneration.
- Reduces Joint Pain and Inflammation
Bone marrow is a rich source of glucosamine, a compound known for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the combination of glycine and linoleic acid in bone marrow provides comprehensive anti-inflammatory benefits, improving joint health.
