SWISS WAGYU BEEF DUMPLING
100% BINGO
"Wagyu", is a well-known denomination in the world of gourmets, which literally means "Japanese beef", where "wa" means "Japanese" and "gyu" means "cow". Often considered the best meat in the world, we started research on how we could bring the most exquisite and exclusive meat product, into a single bite. Here is the story behind the producer, his innovative approach and unique cattle to the creation of our newest dumpling.
The producer, where it all begins
Getting the best products from the best suppliers is a daily endeavor, and we are proud to be working alongside Bianchi since day one. When the idea flourished, we naturally approached Bianchi, asking for the best possible cuts.
Through the unique partnership Bianchi has developped with Hans Zimmerman, we were pleased to meet him at his farm in Viligen in the heart of Aargau. Hans is a forward-thinking farmer, that struck us with his passion, stories, and an excessive amount of striking anecdotes. From co-creating a marbling-grading system for the Swiss Wagyu meat, to experimenting with hundreds of breeding techniques, we were super excited to go and see what raising the best quality beef entails.
It's fair to say that without him Wagyu Beef would have not been a reality in Switzerland!
WHAT IS SWISS WAGYU, AND WHY IS IT UNIQUE
Hans started in 2004 and has worked every day since, to grow his cattle, and obtain the natural marbling found in this exceptional breed. Their genetic predisposition allows them to develop naturally a higher marbling, but without the right breeding and processes, this magical result can never be obtained. And this is where his passion comes into play. And man, we could truly see how he cares about every single cow! With a breeding time of up to 3 years (twice as much as a normal cow), specific diet and living conditions, raising Wagyu Beef is more an art than a professional activity.
Hans' cattle are fed a mix of corn, beets, and minerals, which gives the meat a slightly sweet taste and result in their beautiful marbling.
The main difference between the Swiss cattle and some Wagyu raised in other countries is that the legislation here does not allow the usage of genetic modifications and other hormones to maximize intramuscular fat. Hans was really proud to explain that without those external factors to help the cattle fatten faster, his meat is close to the best you can find in purebred Japanese Wagyu.
Hang on for some juicy anecdotes with Hans
Hans told us a few stories on how he tirelessly researched about animal well being, and how he bought an old car wash from his village, to provide daily massage therapy to his cows. But... Just like with every genious idea, there's always a BUT! Unfortunately, the authorities did not recognize this "non-conventional" gadget, hindering Hans from opening the first 5-star Wagyu welness in Switzerland. Knowing his level of resilience, we won't be surprised to read he finally succeeded in the newspapers and we'll make sure to be there for the opening drinks.
Still curious for juicy news? Hans got more in store for you. Our dear friend has had the honourable visit of one of the private chefs of the king of Japan, that came all the way to visit his farm. Following a captivating tour of the premisses, the chef then took out a long Japanese Yanagiba knife and sliced a paper-thin piece of Wagyu ("so thin you can read through it, like a newspaper!"), tasted and shouted "善神!" - translate "My god" - and went on saying how this was the best Wagyu Beef he tried outside of Japan! Quite an impressive statement, considering the level of quality these chefs are accustomed to.
We introduce: Swiss Wagyu Beef Dumpling
Proud and inspired to work with such suppliers, we headed back to our kitchen ready to work on the best possible dumpling:
Swiss Wagyu beef, red wine jus, bergamot.
Crafted with the finest melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef sourced from Hans's farm, this dumpling is bursting with flavor. The beef is seasoned with a delicate blend of herbs and spices, creating a perfect balance of savory goodness in every bite.
For extra depth, we paired a red wine jus that complements the beef perfectly with its velvety texture, contrasted with very light notes of confit bergamot zest. The bergamot adds a bright and citrus side that beautifully balances out the richness of the Wagyu beef.
Experience this perfect and unique combination for yourself, we're already big fans.