Pan-Seared Emu Fillet with Bush Tomato Reduction
Experience the lean, rich flavor of native Australian emu, expertly seared to a perfect medium-rare and complemented by a simple yet vibrant bush tomato reduction. This dish offers a taste of the Australian outback with a modern culinary twist.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600g Emu fillet
- 100ml Red wine
- 2 tbsp Bush tomato
- 2 tbsp Macadamia oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 50ml Water or Beef Broth
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the Emu Fillet: Remove the emu fillet from its packaging and pat it thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season generously on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let the fillet sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes while you prepare the pan.
⏱️ 15 min - 2
Sear the Emu Fillet: Heat the macadamia oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel is ideal) over medium-high heat until it shimmers and is just beginning to smoke. Carefully place the seasoned emu fillet into the hot pan. Sear for approximately 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until a deep brown crust forms. Adjust heat if necessary to prevent burning. For medium, sear for an additional minute per side. The internal temperature should reach 54-57°C (130-135°F) for medium-rare, or 60-63°C (140-145°F) for medium.
⏱️ 8-10 min - 3
Rest the Emu: Once seared to your desired doneness, immediately remove the emu fillet from the pan and place it on a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and moist result.
⏱️ 10 min - 4
Make the Bush Tomato Reduction: While the emu rests, carefully pour off any excess fat from the skillet, leaving behind the flavorful fond (browned bits). Return the pan to medium heat. Add the bush tomatoes to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Deglaze the pan by pouring in the red wine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer and reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes. If using, add the water or beef broth and continue to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
⏱️ 5-7 min - 5
Serve: Slice the rested emu fillet against the grain into thick medallions. Arrange the slices on serving plates and spoon the warm bush tomato reduction over the top. Serve immediately.
⏱️ 2 min
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Emu is a very lean meat, similar to venison. It cooks quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Aim for medium-rare to medium.
- ✓Always rest the meat after cooking to ensure tenderness and juiciness.
- ✓Bush tomatoes offer a unique tangy and slightly fruity flavor. If substituting, be mindful of the flavor profile change.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a sweeter note, add a few quandongs (fresh or dried) to the sauce along with the bush tomatoes.
- Slice the cooked emu fillet thinly and serve in small slider buns with a dollop of the reduction for an appetizer.