If you are a fan of hearty and flavorful meals, then smoked ox cheek is a cut of beef that you must try. Also known as beef cheek, this cut comes from the cheek muscles of a cow and offers a rich and delicious taste that is reminiscent of ox tail. At Eat Great Meat, we source our ox cheek from local farmers in Yorkshire, ensuring that we provide our customers with the tastiest beef on the market.
The Revival of Ox Cheek
Ox cheek was once a popular choice for beef lovers, but over time, it faded out as people began to prefer other cuts. However, this mouth-watering cut has recently seen a revival, thanks to its versatility and affordability. While ox cheek requires slow cooking to reach its full potential, the end result is a rich and hearty meal that will leave you craving for more.
Cooking Ox Cheek to Perfection
When it comes to cooking ox cheek, it's important to store the meat in the fridge but remove it a couple of hours before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. This step is crucial as it helps the meat to relax and enhances its texture and taste. Before cooking, pat the ox cheek dry to remove any excess moisture. To seal in the flavor and moisture, fry off the meat in a large frying pan. Depending on your recipe, you can then add it to a slow cooker or a large casserole dish in the oven along with onions, garlic, stock, and vegetables. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding some red wine to the mix.
Why Choose Ox Cheek?
There are several reasons why ox cheek is a fantastic choice for your next meal:
- Rich and Full Taste: Ox cheek is an extremely strong and well-worked muscle over the cow's lifetime, which contributes to its full and robust flavor.
- Budget-Friendly: Compared to other cuts of beef, ox cheek is more affordable, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
- Versatility: Ox cheek works well in a range of different stews, tagines, and casseroles. Its tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture adds depth and richness to any dish.
At Eat Great Meat, we deliver our ox cheek in medallions, allowing you to easily slice and dice it for your stew or add it directly to the slow cooker. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, we promise that our ox cheek will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ox cheeks good for you?
Ox cheeks are not only delicious but also offer several health benefits. They are a good source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, ox cheek is rich in collagen, which is beneficial for joint health and skin elasticity.
What is the difference between beef cheeks and ox cheeks?
The terms beef cheek and ox cheek are often used interchangeably and refer to the same cut of meat. Both come from the cheek muscles of a cow and offer a similar taste and texture.
Smoked ox cheek, also known as beef cheek, is a versatile and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for slow cooking. Its rich taste and tender texture make it a favorite choice for stews, casseroles, and tagines. At Eat Great Meat, we take pride in sourcing the highest quality ox cheek from local farmers in Yorkshire, ensuring that our customers enjoy the best beef on the market. Try our smoked ox cheek today and experience the revival of this delicious and affordable cut of beef.
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