What is the main ingredient in tartare?

The main ingredient in tartare is raw minced beef, which is traditionally used in classic dishes like steak tartare. This preparation emphasizes high-quality, fresh beef that is finely chopped or minced and served raw, often accompanied by various seasonings and condiments such as onions, capers, and a raw egg yolk. The practice of serving raw meat allows the natural flavors of the beef to shine, which is a hallmark of this dish.

While raw fish is featured in variations like tuna tartare or salmon tartare, the traditional definition of tartare specifically refers to the beef preparation. Cooked chicken and vegetables do not align with the definition of tartare, as they fundamentally change the dish and do not capture the essence of a classic tartare preparation.