What’s Included in a Beef Share? A Breakdown of Cuts and Portions
If you’ve ever considered buying a beef share, you may be wondering exactly what’s included and how much meat you can expect from your purchase. A beef share allows you to buy beef directly from a ranch, usually in bulk, which means you get to enjoy premium, grass-fed beef at a better value. But what cuts of beef do you get, and how are the portions broken down?
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything that’s typically included in a beef share so you can make an informed decision and prepare for your next purchase from Crown H Cattle Company. Whether you’re new to buying in bulk or a seasoned pro, we’ll help you understand the cuts and portions you’ll receive when you choose a quarter, half, or whole cow.
1. What is a Beef Share?
A beef share is essentially a portion of a whole cow that you purchase directly from a ranch. By buying in bulk, you’re able to save money and get more beef for your dollar. A typical beef share is divided into quarters, halves, or whole cows, depending on how much meat you want and how much freezer space you have.
Most beef shares are priced by the hanging weight of the cow (the weight of the carcass after it’s been butchered but before it’s been trimmed). The actual yield of finished beef (the amount of meat you get after processing) is usually around 60% to 75% of the hanging weight.
2. Common Cuts in a Beef Share
When you purchase a beef share, you can expect a wide variety of cuts. While the exact cuts may vary depending on the butchering preferences, here are the most common cuts you’ll receive:
Steaks
Steaks are some of the most popular cuts in a beef share. Depending on your preferences, you may receive:
Ribeye steaks: Rich, marbled, and perfect for grilling.
New York Strip steaks: A leaner but flavorful option.
Sirloin steaks: Great for grilling or pan-searing.
T-bone or Porterhouse: For steak lovers who want the best of both worlds – tenderloin and strip in one cut.
Roasts
Roasts are perfect for slow cooking and can provide meals for a family. Expect cuts like:
Chuck roast: Ideal for slow cooking or braising.
Round roast: A leaner option that’s great for roasting.
Brisket: Perfect for BBQ or slow-roasting for tender, flavorful meat.
Ground Beef
Most beef shares will include a portion of ground beef, which is great for everything from burgers to meat sauces. The ground beef is usually made from leaner cuts like the chuck and round.
Short Ribs
Short ribs are perfect for braising or slow cooking. They have a rich, meaty flavor and are perfect for making hearty stews or BBQ dishes.
Other Cuts
You can also expect cuts like:
Flank steak: Great for marinating and grilling.
Skirt steak: Perfect for fajitas or stir-frying.
Oxtail: Ideal for soups and stews.
Shanks: Great for braising or making broth.
3. The Breakdown of Portions
The portion size of your beef share will depend on how much beef you decide to purchase. Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect from different beef share sizes:
Quarter Cow
A quarter cow is a great option if you’re looking to try out a beef share without committing to too much meat. Typically, you’ll receive around:
80-100 pounds of finished beef
A mix of steaks, roasts, and ground beef
Half Cow
If you have a larger family or want to stock up your freezer, a half cow is a great choice. You’ll typically receive around:
160-200 pounds of finished beef
A larger selection of steaks, roasts, and ground beef
Whole Cow
A whole cow is the best option if you’re really looking to fill up your freezer. This gives you a variety of cuts and usually results in around:
320-400 pounds of finished beef
A mix of steaks, roasts, ground beef, and specialty cuts
4. Customization: Choosing Your Preferred Cuts
When you buy a beef share, you often have the option to customize your cuts. Some ranchers, like Crown H Cattle Company, allow you to choose how you’d like your beef processed. You can decide how thick you want your steaks, whether you want certain cuts (like the brisket or short ribs) separated, or how you’d like your ground beef prepared.
Customizing your beef share ensures you get exactly the cuts you want and helps you get the most out of your purchase. Be sure to talk with your rancher about any preferences before finalizing your order.
5. How Much Freezer Space Will You Need?
Before purchasing a beef share, it’s essential to make sure you have enough freezer space. A quarter cow will take up about 3 to 4 cubic feet of freezer space, while a half cow typically requires 6 to 8 cubic feet. A whole cow will need between 12 to 15 cubic feet of freezer space.
If you’re uncertain about how much beef you can fit in your freezer, consider using storage bags and organizing your cuts efficiently to maximize space.
Why Buy a Beef Share from Crown H Cattle Company?
When you buy a beef share from Crown H Cattle Company, you’re getting premium Belted Galloway beef raised with care on our family ranch in Etna, CA. Our cattle are raised ethically, grazing on locally sourced feed, and processed in small batches to ensure high-quality cuts. Plus, our beef is grass-fed, free of hormones, and never treated with antibiotics.
By purchasing from us, you’re not only getting superior beef, but you’re also supporting a small family farm committed to sustainable practices.
Ready to Buy Your Beef Share?
If you’re ready to enjoy premium, locally raised beef, consider purchasing a quarter, half, or whole cow from Crown H Cattle Company. We offer customized beef shares with a variety of cuts and portions that will suit your family’s needs.