Sun Prairie Beef

Cattle belly deep in indian grass.

We’ve had a number of people reach out regarding the massive tornado spotted outside Yuma a week or so ago. we were spared dirext tornado damage, but there was plenty of mean weather that did cause damage. Check out the cab of the tractor here. Wind? Hail? Both? Regardless, we’ve some glasswork ahead of us.

It started with the two Afghans on the left. About a month ago, they dropped by looking for meats. The younger dude translated for the older gentleman. They bought brisket and short ribs. I didn’t think much of it. Now, I’m on the tour. More Afghan dudes looking for meats: goat, sheep, pork, and beef. They joke, ribbing one another (in Persian), while I pick out shank, back ribs, and brisket. It’s super fun. !

Another big thank you to Melissa at - dropped some short ribs, tri tip, and oxtails (pow!) at for the . Stay warm concert goers!! Know the DMB team will be well-fed (locally). Tomatoes from as well!!!

A nice afternoon to be fulfilling orders.

Expecting a shipment of beef? It’s coming to you this week. Tom and I spent Saturday (and part of Sunday) getting everything boxed and labeled. That’s me in the freezer with your goodies - next shipment will be In a month! #100%grassfed(andfinished)

A long day of sausage making. I started with a Berkshire shoulder and some beef shanks and turned it into bratwurst, Colorado green chile, cold smoked paprika, and boudin blanc. Stuffing that casing is a real test in patience.

https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/28/podcasts/the-daily/beef-prices-cattle-ranchers.amp.html

When I get asked, “Why are beef prices going up?” followed by “Cattle prices must be good!”, I tell a short story of how beef prices and cattle prices are not aligned and often leave my inquisitor more confused than when we started. Then, a story appears so salient and true, that it must be shared. This is the answer to your question friends. For those supporting the Sun Prairie way, it will strengthen your resolve. For those in the biz, it will make you weep.

Tara is back from Vanderbilt, so we put her to work opening the bales so the cows can have their Christmas dinner. Tom pickforks loose hay back into the bunk to reduce waste, and I’m along for the ride to take the photos. We put in a short day so we can have the rest of it off to enjoy as family. Merry Christmas everyone - from our family to yours. 🎄🎄🎄

Pork belly. Here transformed into bacon ( #1) and pancetta ( #2). Both are cured for 5ish days. Bacon is then smoked, while pancetta is hung and dried for a week. The bacon goes through the slicer and into vacuum sealed bags for Xmas presents. When is the last time you got bacon for Christmas? 😂 #

Ramen. It’s a long process. First, the Tonkatsu (pork bone broth), then the Chasu (rolled, seared, and braised pork belly). Noodles, an egg, and some pickled yellow peppers finish this bowl of goodness.