Beef cheeks, also known as beef jowls or beef maw, are a lesser-known cut of beef that is perfect for slow cooking. They are taken from the facial muscles of the cow and are known for their rich, unctuous flavor and tender texture. When cooked low and slow, beef cheeks become fall-apart tender and are perfect for a variety of dishes, from stews and soups to tacos and sandwiches. In this article, we will explore the art of cooking beef cheeks in a slow cooker, including the benefits of slow cooking, how to prepare beef cheeks for cooking, and some delicious recipe ideas to get you started.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking Beef Cheeks
Slow cooking is a method of cooking that involves cooking food over a long period of time at a low temperature. This method is perfect for tougher cuts of meat, such as beef cheeks, as it allows the connective tissues to break down and the meat to become tender. There are several benefits to slow cooking beef cheeks, including:
- Tenderization: Slow cooking breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to chew.
- Flavor enhancement: Slow cooking allows the flavors of the dish to meld together and penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile.
- Convenience: Slow cooking is a hands-off method of cooking, allowing you to prepare the dish in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal.
How to Prepare Beef Cheeks for Cooking
Before cooking beef cheeks, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Trim excess fat: Beef cheeks can be quite fatty, so it’s essential to trim excess fat before cooking. This will help the dish to be less greasy and more flavorful.
- Season the meat: Season the beef cheeks with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. This will help to enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Brown the meat: Browning the beef cheeks before slow cooking will help to create a rich and flavorful crust on the meat. Simply heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef cheeks until browned on all sides.
Basic Slow Cooker Beef Cheeks Recipe
Here is a basic recipe for slow cooker beef cheeks that you can use as a starting point for your own creations:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef cheeks
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Brown the beef cheeks: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef cheeks until browned on all sides.
- Add to slow cooker: Add the browned beef cheeks, sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme to the slow cooker.
- Cook on low: Cook the beef cheeks on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- Season and serve: Season the beef cheeks with salt and pepper to taste, then serve with your choice of sides.
Delicious Recipe Ideas
Here are a few delicious recipe ideas to get you started:
- Beef Cheek Tacos: Shred the cooked beef cheeks and serve them in tacos with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, avocado, and sour cream.
- Beef Cheek Stew: Add some diced vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, to the slow cooker with the beef cheeks for a hearty and comforting stew.
- Beef Cheek Sandwiches: Shred the cooked beef cheeks and serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as barbecue sauce and coleslaw.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you get the most out of your slow cooker beef cheeks:
- Use a variety of spices: Experiment with different spices and herbs, such as cumin and chili powder, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
- Add some acidity: A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can help to brighten the flavors of the dish.
- Try different cooking liquids: Experiment with different cooking liquids, such as red wine or beer, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking beef cheeks in a slow cooker:
- Overcooking: Beef cheeks can become dry and tough if overcooked, so make sure to check the meat regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Underseasoning: Beef cheeks can be quite bland if underseasoned, so make sure to season the meat liberally with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs.
- Not browning the meat: Browning the beef cheeks before slow cooking is essential for creating a rich and flavorful crust on the meat.
Conclusion
Cooking beef cheeks in a slow cooker is a simple and delicious way to prepare this lesser-known cut of beef. With its rich, unctuous flavor and tender texture, beef cheeks are perfect for a variety of dishes, from stews and soups to tacos and sandwiches. By following the tips and recipe ideas outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and memorable meals with beef cheeks. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
| Beef Cheek Cooking Times | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 2 pounds beef cheeks | 8-10 hours | 4-6 hours |
Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the beef cheeks, as well as the desired level of tenderness.
What are beef cheeks and why are they ideal for slow cooking?
Beef cheeks are a cut of beef that comes from the facial area of the cow. They are ideal for slow cooking because they are tough and have a lot of connective tissue, which breaks down and becomes tender with long, slow cooking. This makes them perfect for slow cookers, braises, and stews.
When cooked low and slow, the connective tissue in beef cheeks dissolves, creating a rich, unctuous texture that’s similar to pulled pork or short ribs. The slow cooking process also allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat, making it incredibly flavorful and tender.
How do I prepare beef cheeks for slow cooking?
To prepare beef cheeks for slow cooking, start by seasoning them with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. You can also brown the beef cheeks in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker to create a rich, caramelized crust on the outside.
Next, add your aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the slow cooker, followed by the beef cheeks and your liquid of choice, such as stock or wine. Make sure the beef cheeks are covered with liquid and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
What is the best liquid to use when cooking beef cheeks in a slow cooker?
The best liquid to use when cooking beef cheeks in a slow cooker is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include beef stock, red wine, and beer. You can also use a combination of liquids, such as stock and wine, to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
When choosing a liquid, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. For example, if you want a rich, beefy flavor, use beef stock. If you want a slightly sweeter flavor, use red wine. If you want a bold, hoppy flavor, use beer.
Can I cook beef cheeks in a slow cooker on high or low?
Yes, you can cook beef cheeks in a slow cooker on either high or low. Cooking on low will result in a more tender and fall-apart texture, while cooking on high will result in a slightly firmer texture.
If you’re short on time, cooking on high can be a good option, but keep in mind that the beef cheeks may not be as tender as they would be if cooked on low. If you have the time, cooking on low is the way to go for the most tender and flavorful results.
How do I know when beef cheeks are cooked to perfection?
Beef cheeks are cooked to perfection when they are tender and fall-apart. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the meat. If it slides in easily and the meat is tender, it’s done.
Another way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Beef cheeks are cooked to perfection when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). However, keep in mind that the temperature may continue to rise after the beef cheeks are removed from the heat, so it’s best to aim for an internal temperature of 155°F (68°C) to avoid overcooking.
Can I cook beef cheeks in advance and reheat them?
Yes, you can cook beef cheeks in advance and reheat them. In fact, beef cheeks are one of those dishes that’s often better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together and the meat has had time to rest.
To reheat beef cheeks, simply place them in the slow cooker or a saucepan with some of the cooking liquid and heat them over low heat until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the oven, covered with foil, at 300°F (150°C) for about 30 minutes.
What are some popular ways to serve beef cheeks?
Beef cheeks are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Some popular ways to serve beef cheeks include serving them with mashed potatoes, polenta, or egg noodles, or using them in tacos, sandwiches, or salads.
You can also serve beef cheeks with a variety of sauces, such as a rich demiglace or a tangy BBQ sauce. Another popular way to serve beef cheeks is to shred them and serve them with some crusty bread or over rice. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and experiment with different serving options.