The taste's OK for me. I think it's the appearance - black that make people afraid of eatting.
Sandra, you may try to put 1/3 - 1/2 of 阿膠 (assuming your is somewhat 6 inches long and 1/3 inch thick) with $10 beef - cut into 3 pieces. Double boil with 1 bowl of water for 1.5 hour. You may add some salt before serve.