This cut is simply spectacular. A firm favourite at the Isle of Wight Meat Co and arguably the best cut for a luxurious winter stew.
The cheek is one of the hardest working muscles on the animal (for obvious reasons,) and as a result it is packed full of flavour. However to un-lock the flavour and gelatinous textures it needs to go low and slow for upwards of 4 hours.
It’s only a guide, like all braises feel free to add your own twist – we tried the addition of star anise recently, with great results.
Ingredients
- 2 x Ox cheeks (about 1kg)
- Seasoned flour
- 2 x tbsp olive oil
- 50g butter
- 4 x carrots, diced
- 1 x onion, chopped
- 1 x celery stick, finely diced
- 4 x garlic cloves, sliced
- 350ml red wine
- 400ml beef stock
- 2 x sprigs of thyme
- 1 x bay leaf
Method
- Trim any excess sinew off the off cheeks and chop into large chunks (about six pieces). Dust each piece with seasoned flour.
- Put a large casserole dish on the hob and add the olive oil on a moderate-high heat.
- Brown the ox cheeks in batches and set aside (add extra oil if needed).
- Melt the butter in the pan and sweat the onions down for 5-6mins (until translucent).
- Add the carrots, celery and garlic and cook for another 3 mins. Season.
- Pour in the red wine along with the stock bring to a simmer.
- Return the cheeks to the pot and add two sprigs of thyme and the bay leaf. Season.
- Cover and cook in the oven for 3-4hrs (160°C)
- Remove from the oven and serve with buttery mash potato and greens.
The amount of stock reduction may vary so keen an eye on it and top up/reduce down accordingly.