Beef Storage, Processing, & Cuts

Freezer Storage Space

A very common question is: How much freezer space will I need?

Typically, a side of beef (a half) will require about 15 to 18 cubic feet of freezer space. This estimated requirement may vary according to the freezers design as well as your personal processing instructions. For our personal beef, we have two upright freezers that are 20 and 21 cubic feet.

This is a newly filled 17 Cubic foot freezer. The 1/2 steer provided 283 pounds of meat and filled the freezer to approximately 85% capacity.

Processing

There are many reputable Meat and Game Processing facilities in East Texas, however, due to extremely high demand, their availability is very limited. We are very pleased to announce that our beef will be processed exclusively at Bluebonnet Meat Processing in Trenton TX. Their schedule of fees can be found here: Bluebonnet State Inspected Custom Processing

In addition to having an outstanding professional, friendly, and knowledgeable staff, Bluebonnet has consistently provided exceptional customer service and the finest, cleanest processing. Simply put, they are the best!

After we have delivered your steer to them for processing, you will need to contact them and fill out your “cut sheet” for your personal processing preferences (say THAT fast 3 times…) The “cut sheet” can be found here: The Bluebonnet Cut Sheet

Beef Cut Charts & Helpful Links

Where does that cut of beef come from? How do I cook it? How should I have my beef processed?

The Spruce Eats: The cuts of meat, cooking methods, and more.
Fine Dining Lovers: Pictures of all the specific cuts of meat.

Bon Appétit Beef Processing Video