A side of beef contains all of the cuts in the whole animal, just half of the meat. When you order a side, you can select which cuts you prefer for each portion of the animal. For instance, do you like rib eye steaks? or would you prefer a rib roast? The cutting list will guide your choices. The size of the animal will dictate how many of each item are available. Sizes will vary but expect a side to contain approximately 250 lbs of meat. This will be cut to approximately 30% steaks, 20% roasts, 30% ground beef and 20% stewing beef, ribs and brisket. Choose whether you want organ meats included, tongue, soup bones or dog bones. Any cuts that you don't specifically want can be ground to make ground beef. Any ground beef can be processed into hamburger patties or sausages with additives such as cheese, jalapeno peppers, garlic etc. We recommend the jalepeno cheese smokies!
How much freezer space do I need?
You can estimate the amount of freezer space you require by using 1 cubic foot for each 35-40 lbs of meat. A quarter will fit in a 5-7 cu.ft. chest freezer. A half will need about 8 cu.ft. and a whole will fit in a 16-17 cu.ft. freezer. Or, leave part of it with us at the ranch for $10/month until you need it.
Is a Side too much? What about a Quarter?
A Quarter of Beef is just half of a side. We sell our Quarters Mixed, meaning there is a combination of the front and the back of the animal.
Whole ~ 500 lbs Side ~ 250 lbs Quarter ~ 125 lbs
Depending on availability, you may be able to purchase specific cuts from our farm-site store-front. Maybe just a couple steaks for a special occasion dinner? Call us to see what is in stock. (403) 638-1282
The farther from the head and the hoof, the more tender the meat. But cooked slowly, the tougher cuts are the most flavourful.