1. What is Angus Beef Mince?
- Source: Angus beef mince comes from Aberdeen Angus cattle, a breed known for high-quality meat.
- Marbling: Angus beef has excellent intramuscular fat (marbling), enhancing tenderness, flavor, and juiciness.
- Versatility: Angus beef mince can be used in a variety of cuisines and recipes due to its balanced lean-to-fat ratio.
- Lean-to-Fat Ratios:
- 80/20: 80% lean meat, 20% fat – ideal for burgers and meatballs.
- 85/15: A balanced option for general use.
- 90/10: Leaner mince, suitable for healthier recipes like casseroles and tacos.
2. Nutritional Profile (Per 100g Serving)
Angus beef mince provides essential nutrients and protein. Here’s an approximate breakdown:
- Calories: ~230–270 kcal
- Protein: ~20–24 g
- Fat: ~15–20 g
- Saturated Fat: ~7–9 g
- Iron: ~2.5 mg (important for oxygen transport in the body)
- Zinc: ~4–5 mg (supports immune function and metabolism)
- Vitamin B12: ~2.5 µg (essential for red blood cell production)
- Cholesterol: ~60–70 mg
Note: Nutritional values depend on the fat content of the mince.
3. Key Benefits of Angus Beef Mince
- Rich Flavor: Angus beef has a deeper, beefier taste due to its marbling.
- Tender Texture: Minced Angus beef remains juicy and tender when cooked.
- Versatility: Suitable for various dishes – burgers, meatballs, lasagna, tacos, and more.
- Nutrient-Rich: Provides high-quality protein, iron, and essential vitamins.
4. Common Uses for Angus Beef Mince
Angus beef mince is perfect for a variety of dishes, such as:
- Burgers
- Form patties with 80/20 mince for juiciness.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
- Meatballs
- Combine mince with breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake, fry, or simmer in tomato sauce.
- Bolognese Sauce
- Cook mince with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs for a hearty pasta sauce.
- Tacos and Nachos
- Season mince with taco seasoning for a flavorful filling.
- Shepherd’s Pie
- Top seasoned mince and vegetables with mashed potatoes and bake until golden.
- Chili Con Carne
- Combine Angus beef mince with kidney beans, tomatoes, and chili spices.
- Stuffed Peppers or Cabbage Rolls
- Use seasoned mince as a filling for baked or steamed vegetables.
5. Cooking Tips for Angus Beef Mince
- Use the Right Fat Content:
- 80/20 for burgers, meatballs, and recipes needing juiciness.
- 90/10 for leaner dishes like casseroles and stir-fries.
- Don’t Overcook:
- Cook until the mince is brown but not dried out. Overcooking reduces tenderness.
- Drain Excess Fat:
- After browning, drain excess fat for a cleaner dish, unless needed for flavor.
- Season Generously:
- Angus beef mince pairs well with garlic, onion, herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano), and spices (paprika, cumin, chili).
- Rest Your Dish:
- Let dishes like burgers or meatballs rest briefly to retain juices.
6. Buying Angus Beef Mince
- Look for Certification: Ensure it’s labeled Certified Angus Beef for premium quality.
- Check Freshness: Fresh mince should be bright red with no off odor.
- Choose the Right Ratio: Pick the lean-to-fat ratio that suits your dish.
- Grass-fed vs. Grain-fed:
- Grass-fed: Leaner with a natural, robust flavor.
- Grain-fed: Richer and juicier due to more marbling.
7. Storage and Handling
- Refrigeration: Store raw mince in the fridge for 1–2 days.
- Freezing: Freeze mince for up to 3 months in airtight packaging.
- Defrosting: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for safety.
- Hygiene: Handle raw mince with clean utensils to prevent cross-contamination.
8. Angus Beef Mince Recipe: Quick Bolognese
Ingredients:
- 500g Angus beef mince (80/20)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 400g crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add Angus beef mince and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Serve over pasta and garnish with fresh basil.
