Beef cheek meat is one of the most underrated cuts, offering a perfect combination of tenderness, flavor, and richness when cooked properly. If you’re new to cooking beef cheeks or want to perfect your method, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to cook beef cheek meat, share delicious recipes, and provide essential tips to make sure every dish is perfect. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about cooking beef cheek meat.
Table of Contents
- What is Beef Cheek Meat?
- Essential Ingredients for Cooking Beef Cheek Meat
- Delicious Beef Cheek Recipes to Try
- Tips for Perfectly Cooked Beef Cheek Meat Every Time
- FAQs about Cooking Beef Cheek Meat
- 1. What does beef cheek meat taste like?
- 2. How long should I cook beef cheek meat?
- 3. Can I cook beef cheek meat in a pressure cooker?
- 4. Can I freeze beef cheek meat?
- 5. How do I know when beef cheek meat is done?
- 6. What is the best way to season beef cheek meat?
- 7. How many calories are in beef cheek meat?
- 8. Can I use beef cheeks for tacos?
- 9. What is the best cut of beef for slow cooking besides beef cheeks?
What is Beef Cheek Meat?
Beef cheek meat comes from the facial muscles of the cow, making it an incredibly flavorful and tender cut. It is often overlooked compared to more popular cuts like rib-eye or brisket, but once you discover how to cook beef cheek meat properly, it may become your new favorite.
The texture of beef cheek meat is rich and slightly fibrous, with a deep, beefy flavor that stands out in stews, braises, and slow-cooked dishes. When cooked low and slow, beef cheeks break down beautifully, becoming incredibly tender and juicy.
Beef cheeks also have the benefit of being more affordable compared to premium cuts, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy flavorful dishes without breaking the bank. Its popularity is on the rise in both home kitchens and high-end restaurants, thanks to its versatility and ability to absorb a wide range of flavors.
Best Cooking Methods
When it comes to cooking beef cheek meat, there are several methods that will help you get the most out of this flavorful cut. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to cook beef cheeks:
1. Braising Beef Cheeks: The Perfect Low and Slow Method
Braising is one of the most popular and effective methods for cooking beef cheek meat. This technique involves cooking the beef cheeks in a flavorful liquid over low heat for an extended period of time, which allows the meat to become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors. Braising is particularly ideal for tougher cuts of meat like beef cheeks, as the slow-cooking process helps break down the connective tissues, resulting in a rich and tender outcome.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
Steps:
- Season the beef cheeks with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the meat.
- Sear them in a hot pan with oil to develop a rich, brown crust that will add depth of flavor.
- Add a mixture of red wine, beef broth, garlic, and herbs (like rosemary and thyme) to the pan, then cover and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours. The liquid helps keep the beef cheeks moist and infuses them with a rich, savory taste.
The result is a melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek dish that’s perfect for serving with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or a side of roasted vegetables. Braised beef cheeks are a comforting, hearty dish that is sure to please anyone at the table.
2. Slow Cooking Beef Cheek Meat
Slow cooking is another excellent method for making beef cheeks tender and flavorful. Using a slow cooker or crockpot, you can set it and forget it, letting the meat cook over several hours. This method is perfect for busy individuals or families who want a delicious, hearty meal without having to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Steps:
- Season beef cheeks with your favorite spices and sear them for flavor in a hot pan.
- Add beef broth, onion, garlic, and herbs to the slow cooker. The combination of beef broth and vegetables creates a savory base that complements the beef cheeks beautifully.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is fall-apart tender. You’ll know the beef cheeks are done when they shred easily with a fork and are deeply flavorful.
This method is incredibly convenient for busy days and results in a dish that’s ready to serve at the end of the day. Plus, the slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and flavorful meal with minimal effort.
3. Sous-Vide Beef Cheek Meat: A Modern Approach
Sous-vide is a precise method where food is cooked in a water bath at a very controlled temperature. This results in perfectly tender beef cheeks that are cooked evenly throughout. It’s a great choice for beef cheek lovers who want to achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 24 hours
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Steps:
- Season the beef cheeks with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices, then seal them in a vacuum bag. The vacuum seal helps preserve the juices and flavors.
- Cook them in a water bath at 60°C (140°F) for 24 hours. The sous-vide method allows the beef cheeks to cook evenly and retain all their moisture, making them incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Finish by searing the beef cheeks in a hot pan for a crispy exterior. This step adds texture and enhances the flavor with a delicious caramelized crust.
Sous-vide beef cheeks retain all their juices, making them extremely flavorful and tender. The long cooking time ensures that the beef cheeks become melt-in-your-mouth tender, making this method ideal for those who want perfectly cooked beef every time.
Essential Ingredients for Cooking Beef Cheek Meat
The right ingredients are crucial for bringing out the best in your beef cheek meat. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for various beef cheek recipes:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Beef Cheeks | Main ingredient |
| Onion | Adds sweetness and flavor |
| Garlic | Enhances the overall taste |
| Carrots | Adds sweetness and depth of flavor |
| Celery | Provides a savory base flavor |
| Red Wine | Used in braising for rich flavor |
| Beef Broth | Provides moisture and depth |
| Thyme and Rosemary | Herb flavoring for fragrance |
| Beef Stock | Adds richness to the sauce |
| Olive Oil | For searing and cooking |
These ingredients work together to create a rich, flavorful base for your beef cheeks. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables like potatoes or parsnips, as well as spices like paprika or bay leaves, to further elevate the dish.
Delicious Beef Cheek Recipes to Try
Now that we’ve covered the best cooking methods and essential ingredients, let’s look at some of the most delicious beef cheek recipes you can try at home.
1. Beef Cheek Stew
This hearty stew is perfect for cold days and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4 beef cheeks
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 sprigs rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Sear the beef cheeks in a pot until browned on all sides. This step adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the beef.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and rosemary, and cook for 5 minutes to soften the vegetables and release their flavors.
- Pour in the red wine and beef broth, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 2-3 hours. This slow-cooking process allows the beef cheeks to become incredibly tender and absorb the rich flavors from the broth and wine.
- Once the beef cheeks are tender, serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving
2. Braised Beef Cheeks in Red Wine
This classic recipe brings out the depth of flavor in beef cheek meat. The red wine adds richness, making this dish a crowd favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 beef cheeks
- 2 cups red wine
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 sprig thyme
Cooking Instructions:
- Season beef cheeks with salt and pepper, then sear in a pot until browned.
- Add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot, then pour in the red wine and beef broth. The red wine will help tenderize the beef and add a complex flavor to the sauce.
- Add thyme and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving
3. Slow-Cooked Beef Cheek Tacos
For a fun twist, try making slow-cooked beef cheek tacos. The tender beef is perfect for stuffing into soft tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
- 4 beef cheeks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
Cooking Instructions:
- Season beef cheeks with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and set it to low, cooking for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the beef to absorb all the flavors and become fall-apart tender.
- Shred the beef and serve in tacos with cilantro, lime, and salsa. You can also add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, and sour cream for extra flavor.
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
4. Sous-Vide Beef Cheeks with Roasted Vegetables
This sous-vide recipe results in the most tender beef cheeks imaginable, paired with roasted vegetables for a balanced, flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 beef cheeks
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Season the beef cheeks and seal them in a vacuum bag.
- Sous-vide at 60°C for 24 hours. This low-temperature cooking method will ensure the beef cheeks are cooked to perfection and incredibly tender.
- Roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
- Sear the beef cheeks in a hot pan before serving with the roasted vegetables. This adds a crispy exterior and extra flavor.
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Beef Cheek Meat Every Time
To make sure your beef cheeks turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
- Check for Doneness: Beef cheeks are done when they are fork-tender and can easily be pulled apart. If the beef feels tough, give it more time to cook.
- Rest the Meat: Let the beef cheeks rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure maximum tenderness.
- Balance Seasoning: Beef cheeks have a rich flavor, so be sure to season well, but don’t overpower the natural taste with too much salt or spices.
- Storage and Reheating: Beef cheek leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the meat. You can also freeze beef cheeks for up to 3 months.
FAQs about Cooking Beef Cheek Meat
1. What does beef cheek meat taste like?
Beef cheek meat has a rich, beefy flavor with a slightly sweet and savory profile. When cooked low and slow, the meat becomes incredibly tender, and its deep flavor intensifies, making it perfect for braises, stews, and other slow-cooked dishes.
2. How long should I cook beef cheek meat?
The cooking time for beef cheek meat depends on the method you use:
- Braising or slow cooking: Beef cheeks should be cooked for 2-3 hours on the stove or in a slow cooker to become tender.
- Sous-vide: If using the sous-vide method, cook the beef cheeks for 24 hours at 60°C (140°F). Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the beef cheeks.
3. Can I cook beef cheek meat in a pressure cooker?
Yes, you can cook beef cheek meat in a pressure cooker! This method is ideal if you’re short on time but still want tender, flavorful beef cheeks. In a pressure cooker, beef cheeks can be cooked in about 1-1.5 hours, depending on the thickness.
4. Can I freeze beef cheek meat?
Yes, you can freeze beef cheek meat. After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then store the beef cheeks in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat.
5. How do I know when beef cheek meat is done?
Beef cheek meat is done when it becomes fork-tender and easily pulls apart. You can check for doneness by using a fork to see if the meat easily shreds. It should feel soft and juicy rather than tough or chewy.
6. What is the best way to season beef cheek meat?
Beef cheek meat has a rich, beefy flavor, so it benefits from simple seasoning like salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Adding red wine, beef broth, or a marinade can enhance the flavor further, especially for braised or slow-cooked dishes.
7. How many calories are in beef cheek meat?
The calorie count for beef cheek meat varies depending on the recipe and cooking method. On average, a serving of beef cheek meat (approximately 4 oz) contains about 350-450 calories. Braised, slow-cooked, or sous-vide beef cheeks can have slightly different calorie counts depending on the ingredients and additional sauces used.
8. Can I use beef cheeks for tacos?
Yes, beef cheeks are an excellent choice for tacos! After slow-cooking or braising the meat, shred it and serve it in soft tortillas with your favorite toppings such as salsa, cilantro, and lime. The tender meat pairs perfectly with the fresh, vibrant flavors of taco fillings.
9. What is the best cut of beef for slow cooking besides beef cheeks?
If you can’t find beef cheeks, there are other cuts of beef that work well for slow cooking, such as brisket, chuck roast, or short ribs. These cuts also have a good amount of marbling and will become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
Beef cheek meat is a versatile, flavorful cut that deserves a place in your kitchen. Whether you’re braising, slow cooking, or using sous-vide, there are endless possibilities for making delicious meals with beef cheeks. By following the cooking tips and recipes in this guide, you can enjoy perfectly tender, flavorful beef cheeks every time. Try these recipes today, and discover how this often-overlooked cut can become your new favorite!
Ready to Try Cooking Beef Cheeks?
Now that you know the best methods, recipes, and tips for cooking beef cheek meat, it’s time to get cooking! Whether you’re trying out a braised beef cheek stew, slow-cooked tacos, or a modern sous-vide dish, you can make a truly delicious meal with this underrated cut. Don’t wait—head to your kitchen and start preparing your next favorite beef dish today!
Got Questions or Tips to Share?
Drop a comment below or share your own beef cheek recipes with us! We’d love to hear about your cooking experiences. And if you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!
