Exploring The World Of Exquisite Meats
Beef is a staple in many Australian diets, but there are so many different types of meat out there to explore. If you’re looking for something different, you’ve come to the right place. As one of Australia’s premier wholesale meat suppliers, we absolutely recommend you try something new on this list – as well as some recipe ideas including them.
Get Some New Meats On Your Plate
Grass-fed Beef
Grass-fed beef is beef that comes from cows that have been raised on a diet of primarily grass and forage, as opposed to grain – and at Melrina, it’s a specialty of ours. Grass is the natural diet of cattle, and it is what they are best adapted to eat. This diet leads to a leaner, more nutritious type of beef, being a great source of omega-3 fatty acids (beneficial for heart health, brain health, and joint health) and other nutrients. Grass-fed beef also tends to be raised in an environment that is more ethical for the cattle.
Game Meats
Game meats, such as venison, quail, kangaroo and rabbit, are a lean and healthy alternative to beef. They are also a sustainable option, as game animals are typically harvested from the wild and tend to be invasive or over-populated species. Whilst they might not be your first choice for a Saturday night barbecue, these different types of meat give you an opportunity to explore different flavour palates. They’re also often used in traditional dishes from different cultures, so they’re a great way to introduce the family to some new recipes.
Goat
Goat meat is a lean, healthy, and nutritious meat that is low in saturated fat and high in protein. It is also a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Goat meat is a popular choice in many cultures around the world, and is gaining popularity in Australia, too. Lean and low in saturated fat, goat is of course high in protein and is easy to digest, making it a good choice for those with sensitive stomachs. It’s also a more sustainable meat choice, as goat farming requires less land and water resources than other types of livestock farming.
Due to how lean it can be, goat can easily dry out during the cooking process, meaning that it works better in a marinade or stew in order to retain its moisture.
Duck
Duck meat is a delicious and nutritious meat that is becoming an increasingly popular choice for diners all over Australia. It’s a great source of protein, iron, zinc, and selenium. Duck meat is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain health, and joint health.
When cooking with duck, always make sure you choose the right cut of meat to suit your dish, don’t overcook, and allow it to rest before serving. It’s a versatile meat that can be used in a variety of dishes, including roasts, confit, smoked, and even the delicacy known as Peking duck.
Mutton
Another specialty of Melrina, mutton is the meat of adult sheep, and it is a good source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. It is also relatively low in saturated fat, and a versatile meat that can be added to just about any recipe: skewers, curry, biryani, stew, the list goes on. With a stronger, gamier flavour closer to venison, mutton is also great for slow-cooking, and benefits from a longer cooking process.
Some Recipes To Inspire
Looking for some ways to use these different types of meats? Here are a few ideas to get you.
Grass-Fed Beef
Beef burgers. An easy meal to whip up during the week or to offer a special gourmet touch to your organisation. A mix of fillings and unique sauces can really raise a basic burger up a few notches.
Beef chilli. Get a kick with this stew made with grass-fed ground beef, onions, beans, diced tomato, chilli powder and a range of other spices.
Beef tacos. Another spicy classic, the filling of a taco is what makes the meal – and with tasty grass-fed beef mince, you can’t go wrong.
Game Meats
Venison stew. This hearty stew is made with venison chunks, vegetables, and red wine. It is a perfect meal for a cold winter day.
Rabbit ragu. This Italian dish is made with rabbit meat that is cooked in a tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs, making for a delicious and hearty pasta dish.
Quail roast. This dish is made with quail that are roasted in the oven with vegetables and herbs, resulting in a delicate and flavourful dish.
Goat
Goat curry. Often served in India, this dish is made with goat meat that is cooked in a curry sauce with vegetables and spices, bringing out the tenderness of the goat meat.
Goat stew. Another deep, flavourful dish, stewing goat is another great way to bring out the moisture and flavour of goat. Better yet, you can add almost anything to a stew!
Grilled goat kebabs. A great barbecue idea with spices such as cumin, parsley, coriander, turmeric and more. Plus, you can pair it with a healthy salad for an easy summer meal.
Duck
Duck confit. This classic French dish is made with duck legs that are cured in salt and then slow-cooked in their own fat. The duck is then served with potatoes or vegetables.
Duck a l’orange. Another standout French dish of duck that is cooked with oranges and a variety of other spices and herbs, then served with a sauce made from the orange juice and duck drippings.
Duck ragù. An Italian dish that is made with duck meat that is cooked in a tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs. It is a delicious and hearty pasta dish.
Mutton
Mutton curry. This classic Indian dish is made with mutton that is cooked in a curry sauce with vegetables and spices. It is a flavorful and hearty dish.
Mutton biryani. Another Indian dish that is made with mutton, rice, vegetables, and spices. It is a popular dish for special occasions.
Mutton stew. A hearty stew option that is made with mutton, vegetables, and red wine, making it perfect for a winter’s day.
Make The Most Of Different Meat Types, With Melrina
If you’re interested in carrying delicious, gourmet meats for your business, get in touch with the team at Melrina. From grass-fed beef to the best mutton, pork and more, we can connect you with the best Australian producers to keep up with your business’ menu and needs.