- Backstrap — The prized cut. Very lean and tender. Best for: a quick sear, steak, grilling.
- Tenderloin — Small, and the most tender. Best for: a quick sear.
- Haunch — Large, lean muscles. Best for: roasting, steak, jerky.
- Shoulder — Lean, with sinew. Needs slow cooking. Best for: stews, braising, mince, burgers.
- Neck — Tough, with deep flavour. Best for: slow cooking, stews.
- Ribs — Thin meat, little fat. Best for: braising, slow cooking.
- Shank — Sinew and collagen. Best for: braising, soup.
- Flank — Thin and tough. Best for: mince, burgers, sausages.
Wild game: cook it to at least 71 °C (160 °F) in the centre, jerky included. Cut names vary by country and shop. Text and pictures were made with AI.



