When you decide to buy Simpson’s 1/2 cow, you’re making a smart investment in high-quality, locally sourced beef that’s both delicious and versatile. But what exactly do you get when you make this purchase? Understanding the various cuts of beef included in a ½ cow package can help you make the most of your investment, ensuring that every meal you prepare is a culinary delight. In this blog, we’ll break down the different cuts of beef you receive when you buy Simpson’s 1/2 cow and offer tips on how to use them.

The Breakdown of a ½ Cow

A ½ cow from Simpson’s Meats typically weighs around 200 pounds, packaged into various cuts that are perfect for all types of meals. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect:

1. Steaks

Steaks are some of the most prized cuts in a ½ cow package. These include:

  • Ribeye Steaks: Known for their rich marbling and intense flavor, they are perfect for grilling or pan-searing.
  • Sirloin Steaks: Leaner than ribeyes but still flavorful, sirloin steaks are versatile and can be grilled, broiled, or sautéed.
  • Strip Steaks: Feature a fine balance of tenderness and flavor, strip steaks are ideal for grilling, broiling and pan-searing.
  • Filet Mignon: Praised for its tenderness and mild flavor, filet mignon is often considered the most luxurious cut, perfect for special occasions and elegant dinners.

2. Roasts

Roasts are ideal for slow cooking and provide hearty, flavorful meals. Common roasts in a ½ cow package include:

  • Chuck Roast: This cut is well-marbled and perfect for pot roast, stews, or slow cooking until it’s fall-apart tender.
  • Round Roast: Leaner than chuck roast, rump roast is excellent for slow roasting and slicing thin for sandwiches or main dishes.
  • Brisket: A cut that benefits from long, slow cooking, brisket is perfect for barbecuing or smoking.

3. Ground Beef

Ground beef is incredibly versatile and a staple in many households. When you buy Simpson’s ½ cow, you can expect a significant portion of your package to be ground beef, perfect for burgers, meatloaf, tacos, and more.

4. Short Ribs

Short ribs are cut from the lower part of the cow’s rib and brisket section. They are best cooked slowly at low temperatures, making them ideal for braising or slow cooking.

5. Other Cuts

In addition to the major cuts, your ½ cow package may include stew meat, flank steak, skirt steak, flat iron, tri-tip, coulotte and soup bones. These cuts add variety and are perfect for a range of recipes.

Tips for Cooking Different Cuts

When it comes to serving up your various cuts, there are no wrong answers, but we have a few suggestions to take your meat to the next level:

  • Ribeye Steaks: Season simply with salt and pepper, then grill or sear in a hot pan. Let rest before serving.
  • Chuck Roast: Brown the roast on all sides in a heavy pot, then slow-cook with vegetables and broth until tender.
  • Ground Beef: Use for a multitude of dishes, from classic burgers to hearty chili. Season well and cook until browned.
  • Short Ribs: Braise in red wine and beef broth with aromatics like onions, garlic, and thyme for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Storage and Preparation Tips

When you buy Simpson’s ½ cow, proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and freshness of your beef. Here are some tips:

  • Freezing: Store cuts in freezer-safe packaging, labeled with the date. Vacuum sealing is ideal for preventing freezer burn.
  • Thawing: Thaw beef in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
  • Portioning: Consider pre-portioned packaging for convenience—this way, you only thaw what you need.

Ready to Elevate Your Home Cooking? Buy Simpson’s ½ Cow Today!

Understanding the various cuts of beef included in your ½ cow purchase can help you make the most of this investment. When you buy Simpson’s ½ cow, you’re not just getting an assortment of meats—you’re gaining access to a wide range of culinary possibilities. From succulent steaks and roasts to versatile ground beef and short ribs, each cut offers unique flavors and cooking methods that elevate your meals.

Ready to elevate your home cooking? Visit Simpson’s Meats to buy Simpson’s 1/2 cow today and enjoy the unmatched quality and taste of locally sourced beef.