Types of Beef Cuts: A Complete Guide for Home Cooks

Beef is one of the most versatile and flavorful meats, but with so many cuts available, it can be hard to know which one to buy for your recipe. At Mayar’s Meat Market, we believe that when you understand your beef cuts, cooking becomes easier, meals taste better, and nothing goes to waste.

Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or slow-cooking, here’s a simple guide to the most popular beef cuts and how to use them.

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1. Ribeye Steak

Known as the “king of steaks,” the ribeye is famous for its marbling—the thin streaks of fat running through the meat. This fat melts as it cooks, giving ribeye its juicy, buttery flavor.
Best For: Grilling, pan-searing, or broiling.

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2. Sirloin

A leaner cut than ribeye, sirloin steak is still packed with flavor and tenderness. It’s a budget-friendly option that works well in everyday meals.
Best For: Grilling, stir-frying, or oven-roasting.

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3. Beef Shank

Cut from the leg, beef shank is tough but flavorful. It contains a lot of connective tissue that breaks down during long cooking, creating rich soups and stews.
Best For: Braising, stews, soups, or bone broth.

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4. Tomahawk Steak

Impressive in both size and presentation, the tomahawk steak is essentially a ribeye with the long rib bone attached. It’s dramatic, flavorful, and a showstopper for special occasions.
Best For: Grilling or roasting.

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5. Beef Ribs

Rich, hearty, and meaty, beef ribs are a favorite for barbecue lovers. They’re best cooked low and slow to bring out their full tenderness.
Best For: Smoking, BBQ, or slow roasting.

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6. Stew Meat

Stew meat is usually cut from tougher parts of the cow, making it ideal for slow cooking. The result? Tender, flavorful bites that soak up your stew or curry sauce.
Best For: Curries, stews, and slow cooker meals.

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7. Beef Tongue

A delicacy in many cuisines, beef tongue is incredibly tender and flavorful when cooked properly. It’s often used in tacos, sandwiches, or traditional recipes.
Best For: Slow-cooking, braising, or boiling.

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8. Wagyu Beef

For the ultimate indulgence, Wagyu beef is prized for its intense marbling and unmatched tenderness. It’s considered one of the most luxurious beef cuts in the world.
Best For: Grilling, pan-searing, or enjoying medium-rare to savor its buttery flavor.

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Tips for Choosing the Right Cut

• Think about cooking time: Tougher cuts like shank and stew meat need low-and-slow cooking, while ribeye or sirloin are best for quick grilling.

• Match the meal: Want something rich for a holiday feast? Go for tomahawk or ribeye. Making a hearty family curry? Stew meat or shank will shine.

• Ask your butcher: At Mayar’s Meat Market, our expert butchers can recommend the perfect cut for your recipe.

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Conclusion

From premium steaks to comforting stews, every cut of beef has its purpose in the kitchen. By knowing the different types of beef cuts and how to use them, you’ll unlock new flavors and cooking possibilities.

At Mayar’s Meat Market, we offer only the freshest, halal-certified beef cuts, prepared to your preference. Visit us today and bring home the perfect cut for your next meal.