Ordering beef straight from the producer can be intimidating. We sometimes throw around phrases like “side of beef” or “hanging weight” that can be confusing. So if we don’t answer your questions below, let us know!
A steer looks pretty big. Do I need to buy a chest freezer??
Unless you order just a few retail cuts or a smaller bundle, you will definitely need some extra freezer space. According to Oklahoma State University (Paul’s alma mater), each cubic foot of freezer space will hold 35-40 pounds of cut and wrapped meat. This can vary if you have any odd shaped cuts, so keep that in mind.
We typically average 600 pounds per beef. A side, or a half, would be 300. A quarter, 150. So for a side of beef you would need roughly 8-9 cubic feet of freezer space.
I want all steaks! Can I do that?
Definitely! However, those would be strictly retail cuts and sold on an individual or bundle basis. Purchasing a side or quarter includes the meat in that portion, which includes roasts, briskets, etc., depending on what part of the carcass you select. For example, the hind quarter has more steaks and roasts, while the forequarter contains the brisket, ribs, and chuck roasts.
So what cuts come from where?
Here’s a handy guide to finding out what cuts come from each part of the animal. This doesn’t mean you will need to order one of each cut, but gives you an idea of your options. When you are ready to order your Hodgen Farms Beef, you will complete a cut sheet for the butcher. This will allow you to specify just what will fill your belly!
Hodgen Farms Beef 