How to Identify Areas Cuts of Beef Come From

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By Semira J
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Identify Areas Cuts of Beef Come From

How can you tell where the cut of beef you are buying came from? Or which cut of beef to buy for a recipe? Here's how:

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Internet
Local Butcher

Step 1

Cuts of beef are also called primal cuts. It is helpful to know this, because cooking methods vary by cut. Surf the web and find a chart of primal cuts. Some websites even offer a download for a printable pdf file.
Step 2

Memorize some basics. Round is the back section of the cow. Chuck is near the chest of the cow. The ribs? You guessed it!!
Step 3

Ask your local butcher to review some basics with you. They can also make special cuts for you. For Example-Blade roast cut into rib-eye steaks.
Step 4

Remember one kind of meat from each section (front to back) Section1. Chuck can be cut into A.Blade Roast—cheaper cut very close to the ribs, good for roasts, rib-eye steaks, and stir-fry. B. Chuck Steak—used for kabobs

Section2.Rib cab be cut into A. Ribs B.Rib Roast and C.Rib Steak

Section3.Short Loin (really, really tender-that means you don't have to cook it as long.)can be cut into A.Porterhouse Steak—This can be cut into strip steak or tenderloin (used for filet mignon), B.T-bone Steak, C.Tenderloin-this can be cut for strips or tenderloin too. D.Rib Roast, E.Rib Steak(great boneless or bone-in)

Section3.Sirloin can be cut into A.Sirloin Steaks, B.Sirloin Tip Roast

Section4.Flank can be cut into A.Flank Steak (slice thin and cut against the grain), B.Kabobs C.London Broil

Section5.Short Plate (actually one of my favorites) used for beef stew (best if cooked slow)

Section6. Round-(lean, so cook it longer)can be cut for A.Top Round—pot roast or some thick steaks B. Rump Roast—also for pot roast(great in crock pot)

Secton7. Shank/Brisket (my other fav!)can be used for A.Corned Beef,
B.Foreshank—More stew anyone? C.Brisket First Cut—a leaner brisket and not to be confused with D.Brisket Front Cut—super tender, great pot roast

Comments

MotherDove said

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on 12/27/2008 LOL, how many times have I listened to Alton Brown, my mom AND grandmom explain the cuts of beef to me?! I think the best thing for me is to follow your good advice and download a chart.. Thanks so much for the info!