Ox cheek, also known as beef cheek, is a cut of meat taken from the cheek muscle of a cow. Despite sometimes being called "ox cheek", it doesn't necessarily come from an ox. This cut has recently gained popularity with chefs and home cooks.
Ox cheek is known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture, but requires slow cooking to break down its tough muscle fibers. It's often prepared by braising, slow-roasting, or using it in stews, soups, and pies. The meat is rich in collagen, which gives it a spoon-soft texture when cooked and provides health benefits. It's also a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. Many butchers offer trimmed ox cheek, and some prepare it with a house spice blend for BBQ.
The price of ox cheek varies depending on the supplier, with some suppliers pricing per cheek and others per kilogram. Prices can range from £5.50 per cheek to £28.50 per kilogram. Availability can vary, with some suppliers having limited stock. Ox cheek is available from various online butchers and local farms, including Grasmere Farm, The Ginger Pig, and R and J Yorkshire's Finest.
