Beef cheeks

Jevi’s notes

Incredibly tender once braised. Not every butcher can salvage them, so ask early.

From the Primal Cut Sheet post Working with the Butcher.

Thaw (fridge)

Planning estimate for a 1.5 lb package: ~24 hours in the refrigerator (≤40°F). USDA: large items ~24h per 5 lb; small packages often need a full day. Never thaw on the counter. Big roasts need a head start.

Methods

• Braise (oven) · oven 300°F · pull ~200°F (texture/plan) · rest 15 min
  Est. cook: ~255 min for 1.5 lb

Pull temperatures for braises and BBQ are texture targets and may run above the USDA minimums. Either way, meet the USDA floor and check with a thermometer, not the clock.