To cook beef cheeks, they can be slow cooked in a slow cooker on low heat for 3-4 hours or in the oven at 160°C for 3-4 hours. Alternatively, they can be browned in a Dutch oven with olive oil over medium-high heat for 4 minutes per side.
Beef cheeks are a less-known cut of beef, but they offer an irresistible flavor that can be used in various dishes. The meat is incredibly tender and melts in your mouth – perfect for tacos or sandwiches!
This tougher cut of beef is filled with strands of collagen and gelatin that require gentle cooking to break down and soften.
This makes it a perfect option for a slow-cooked dinner you can prepare in advance – and the flavor only gets better when reheated!
What is Beef Cheek Meat?
Protein
Beef cheek meat is a lean cut that packs in plenty of protein. Plus, its low fat content means it can easily be added to various dishes for added flavor and nutrition.
Cooked slowly and carefully, this meat becomes tender and flavorful. Try it in tacos, quesadillas and other Mexican dishes for an authentic Mexican meal your entire family will love!
As with other beef cuts, the ideal way to cook cheek meat is in a slow cooker. Simply layer your cuts of meat in your pot, seasoning it with some salt and spices, cover, and cook on LOW for 8 hours until tender and delicious!
Fat
Beef cheek meat is a lean and tender cut of meat with an irresistibly rich flavor reminiscent of beef short ribs or oxtail.
Its flavor is due to the breaking down of connective tissue within the meat, creating a melt-in-your mouth texture and amplifying its natural taste. This makes it an ideal ingredient for stews and casseroles.
This cut of meat is an ideal addition to slow-cooked dishes like barbacoa and tacos, as well as a budget-friendly substitute for beef oxtail when you need something affordable.
Cooking cheeks slowly and thoroughly allows them to soften and break down their connective tissue, allowing you to enjoy them as is or use them in other dishes.
Carbohydrates
Beef cheek meat is abundant in collagen, a type of carbohydrate. When cooked slowly or under pressure, this connective tissue melts and softens the beef cheeks into tender ragu sauce.
Though some might dismiss beef cheeks, when cooked properly they become incredibly tender and flavorful. When properly braised/slow cooked, these tough muscles develop a deep savory taste and an unparalleled soft mouthfeel compared to any other cut of beef.
They’re an essential ingredient in barbacoa and tacos. You can also make them into a pot pie with mashed potatoes or serve them over pasta for an easy low-carb or Paleo diet option.
Vitamins
Beef cheek meat is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, especially zinc, iron, and B vitamins – all vital for muscle growth and repair.
Beef cheek meat contains high levels of collagen, which may provide numerous health benefits, such as supporting joint health, improving skin and coat health, and supporting gut health.
However, feeding beef cheek meat to your dog can be risky if they receive too much or continue using it as a treat for too long. Excessive amounts may lead to digestive upset and an increase in weight.
Minerals
Beef cheek meat is packed full of essential nutrients. It’s particularly high in zinc, selenium and iron; plus it provides vitamins B12, B6, vitamin D and phosphorus.
In addition to essential nutrients, beef and other meats contain bioactive substances and antioxidants that may benefit your overall health when consumed in sufficient amounts.
Beef cheeks are a beloved treat for dogs and pet parents, but they should only be given in moderation.
While these nutritious treats provide protein and other beneficial nutrients to dogs and pet parents, they also tend to be high in fat which could lead to weight gain or other health issues.
How to Cook Beef Cheek
Beef cheeks are a tough cut of meat that can be cooked in various ways. The best way to cook beef cheeks is slow-cooked, as this turns the muscle tissue into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy.
To prepare beef cheeks for cooking, pat them down with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper before searing on both sides until lightly brown and caramelised.
After searing, add vegetables such as onion, carrot, celery or garlic to the pot along with stock and bay leaves.
Cook the beef cheeks on low heat for 3-4 hours or in an oven at 160°C for 3-4 hours, then transfer them to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
For added flavor, you can also use herbs like rosemary or thyme or spices like cumin or coriander.
