Beef chuck refers to a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. It’s a versatile, flavourful cut that’s often used in braising, slow cooking, or roasting due to its toughness. When cooked properly, beef chuck becomes tender and juicy, making it ideal for dishes like pot roast, stews, and shredded beef for tacos or sandwiches.
The meat from the chuck is typically marbled with fat, which adds richness to the flavour. It can be found in different forms, such as:
Chuck roast: A large, boneless cut, perfect for slow roasting or braising.
Chuck steaks: Individual steaks cut from the chuck roast, suitable for grilling or pan-searing, though they’re best cooked low and slow to tenderize.
Ground chuck: Often used for making burgers, as it has a good balance of fat and lean meat, giving it flavour and juiciness.