How to Choose the Right Cut for the Right Occasion

Walking into a butcher shop can feel overwhelming, there are so many cuts, each with their own best use. Should you grab a ribeye, a rump, or a roast? The truth is, there’s no single “best” cut of mea. It all depends on what you’re cooking, how much time you’ve got, and who you’re feeding.

Here’s a butcher’s guide to picking the right cut for the right occasion.

Weeknight Quick Meals

When you’ve had a long day and just want dinner on the table fast, choose cuts that cook quickly:

• Chicken schnitzels: crumbed and ready for the pan, dinner in under 10 minutes.
• Sausages: endless flavour options, always a family favourite.
• Stir-fry strips: thinly sliced beef or chicken cooks in minutes.

Butcher’s tip: Stock up and freeze schnitzels or sausages so you’ve always got a quick option ready to go.

Special Occasion Steaks

When it’s time to treat yourself or impress guests, go for premium steaks:

• Scotch fillet (ribeye): beautifully marbled, rich and juicy.
• Porterhouse (sirloin): leaner but still packed with flavour.
• Eye fillet: the most tender cut, perfect for a showstopper dinner.

Butcher’s tip: Always let steaks rest for 5 minutes after cooking. It keeps the juices locked in so every bite is tender.

Slow Cook & Comfort Food

For those days you want the oven or slow cooker to do the work:

• Beef brisket: melts into smoky, tender perfection after hours of cooking.
• Chuck steak: turns into hearty, fork-tender beef in stews.
• Lamb shanks: perfect for winter, falling off the bone after a slow braise.

Butcher’s tip: Low and slow cooking transforms tough cuts into something incredible, don’t rush it.

BBQ & Entertaining

Nothing beats gathering around the barbecue:

• Lamb chops: a true Aussie classic, quick on the grill.
• Skewers: easy to share, easy to cook.
• Gourmet sausages: mix and match flavours to keep everyone happy.

Butcher’s tip: Keep seasonings simple and let the meat shine, a touch of salt, pepper, and olive oil is all you need.

Everyday Staples

Sometimes you just need reliable, versatile cuts:

• Premium mince: for burgers, spag bol, or tacos.
• Roasts: a whole chicken or beef roast makes feeding the family simple.
• Diced beef or lamb: great for curries, casseroles, or pies.

Butcher’s tip: Don’t underestimate mince, good quality mince can be just as special as a steak if you treat it right.

The Bruce’s Meat Take

At Bruce’s Meat, we’re here to make sure you get the right cut for your needs. Whether it’s a Tuesday stir-fry, a Sunday roast, or a Friday night BBQ, we’ll point you in the right direction.

Trevor’s advice: Never be shy about asking your butcher for help. We cut and cook meat every day, it’s our job to guide you.

The “best cut” depends on the occasion. Quick meals, celebrations, slow cooks, or family barbecues all call for different choices. That’s the beauty of being a butcher, there’s always a perfect cut waiting for the right moment.

So next time you’re in store, tell us what you’re cooking, and we’ll make sure you leave with exactly what you need.