They do! And it’s not some underground punk-rock food trend, either. Cultures have been doing this for centuries. Think steak tartare—fancy, right? Or German Mett on a bun. Or even a simple kibbeh nayeh from the Middle East.
This isn’t about being reckless with food safety. It’s about respecting the ingredient. You need fresh, high-quality beef—like, from a butcher you trust with your life. No store-brand 80/20 chuck from last Tuesday.
The "Is It Safe?" Chat (Spoiler: Mostly, Yes)
Let’s get the scary part out of the way. Raw beef can carry bacteria. But guess what? So does your salad sometimes. The trick is freshness and handling. Buy it the same day you eat it. Keep it cold. And for goodness' sake, don’t let it sit out while you finish that Netflix episode.
If you’re pregnant, have a weak immune system, or are just a nervous wreck—skip it. Honestly, no judgment. But for everyone else? This is a culinary adventure worth taking. Your taste buds will thank you.