SRF BLOG

Guide to Kurobuta Pork Few pork experiences can match the richness and tenderness of Kurobuta. From the first bite, you notice the depth of flavor, the perfect marbling, and the juiciness that sets it apart from any grocery store pork. For us at Snake River Farms, Kurobuta isn’t just pork — it’s the culmination of heritage, care, and craft. Snake River Farms Kurobuta stands alone in the pork world. The color is deep and vibrant and the fat, amazingly succulent and complex. — Chef Kris Komori, James Beard Semi-Finalist We’ve dedicated decades to raising purebred Berkshire hogs, ensuring every cut delivers that remarkable flavor and tenderness. Whether it’s a perfectly cooked Kurobuta ham, thick-cut pork chops, or slow-braised ribs, this pork brings a dining experience worthy of celebration — at home, for special occasions, or simply because every meal deserves to be extraordinary. Ready to taste the difference? Explore our full collection of Kurobuta chops, hams, ribs, bacon, and specialty cuts. Table of Contents What Is Kurobuta Pork? Raising Kurobuta Pork: The Snake River Farms Difference Berkshire Pork vs. Other Heritage Pork Breeds How to Cook Kurobuta Pork Kurobuta Pork for Every Occasion What Chefs & Food Lovers Say FAQs About Kurobuta Pork What Is Kurobuta Pork? Kurobuta Pork is America’s premium heritage pork, renowned for its tenderness, rich flavor, and beautiful marbling. It comes from Berkshire hogs, a historic breed originally from England and celebrated in Japan as Kurobuta, meaning “black hog.” This heritage breed produces pork with a deep reddish-pink color and a buttery texture that sets it apart from ordinary pork. How does Kurobuta differ from regular pork?Unlike conventional pork, which is bred for fast growth and mass production, Kurobuta comes from pigs raised as true heritage pork. These pigs grow more slowly, are fed specialized diets, and are raised with careful attention to welfare. The result? Meat that’s juicier, more flavorful, and richly marbled — a cut that practically melts in your mouth. You can taste the difference in every chop, ham, or rib. Why is Kurobuta Pork more expensive?Quality comes with care. Heritage breeds like Berkshire hogs take longer to reach maturity and are raised on small farms without growth promotants. Their slower growth and meticulous feeding create the marbling and flavor you can’t get from standard pork. When you choose Kurobuta, you’re paying for exceptional flavor, heritage genetics, and a truly premium experience — not just pork. Why choose Berkshire pork?Whether for everyday meals or special occasions, Kurobuta delivers a taste and texture that turns any dish into a culinary highlight. Its rich flavor, tender texture, and heritage pedigree make it the choice for chefs, food lovers, and anyone who appreciates heritage pork at its finest. Snake River Farms Kurobuta stands alone in the pork world. The color is deep and vibrant and the fat, amazingly succulent and complex. – Chef Kris Komori, James Beard Semi-finalist Kurobuta Frenched Pork Chop Perfectly marbled and juicy, these chops are ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner. Elegant flavor, easy preparation. Shop Kurobuta Pork Chops → Kurobuta Bone-In Half Ham Richly flavored and tender, our hams make a show-stopping centerpiece. Bone-in ensures juiciness and enhances taste for holiday meals. Shop Kurobuta Hams → Kurobuta Bacon Thick-cut and bursting with flavor, our Kurobuta bacon elevates breakfast, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards. Juicy, savory, and rich. Shop Kurobuta Bacon → Kurobuta Spare Ribs Slow-cooked or grilled, these ribs deliver tender, flavorful pork every time. Perfect for family meals or weekend gatherings. Shop Kurobuta Ribs → The History of Berkshire Hogs Berkshire hogs have a storied history spanning more than 300 years in Berkshire County, England. Known for their black coats and richly marbled meat, these pigs quickly became prized for flavor and tenderness, earning a reputation as a true heritage pork breed. In the late 1800s, Berkshire hogs were among the first pigs imported to Japan, where they were renamed Kurobuta, or “black hog.” Japanese farmers and chefs celebrated the breed for its deep color, rich flavor, and tender texture — qualities that continue to influence modern American heritage pork. Today, Kurobuta Pork carries that same legacy of careful breeding, exceptional quality, and culinary prestige. Why Heritage Breeds Matter Not all pork is created equal. Heritage pork breeds like Berkshire hogs are raised with flavor and quality in mind, rather than speed or mass production. Compared to commodity pork: Flavor: Richer, deeper, and more complex due to superior marbling. Texture: Tender and juicy, with a melt-in-your-mouth quality. Growth: Slower-growing pigs develop meat with greater depth of flavor. Cultural significance: Heritage breeds represent a culinary tradition prized by chefs and food lovers worldwide. Discover more about heritage pork and how Kurobuta compares to other breeds in our Heritage Pork Guide and Kurobuta vs Iberico article.   Understanding Kurobuta Pricing Quality comes with careful cultivation. Kurobuta Pork is more expensive than conventional pork because: Heritage genetics: Purebred Berkshire hogs are rare and prized. Slower growth: These pigs take roughly 10% longer to reach maturity, which develops richer marbling and flavor. Small-farm practices: Handled with care on family farms, without growth promotants. Attention to diet and welfare: Ensuring exceptional eating quality and sustainability. When you choose Snake River Farms Kurobuta, you’re paying for more than meat — you’re investing in heritage, flavor, and a premium dining experience.   Pork Chops Juicy, tender, and richly marbled. Ideal for quick grilling, pan-searing, or oven roasting. Shop Pork Chops → Kurobuta Hams Fully cooked, ready for the table. Rich flavor and tender texture make them perfect for holidays or special meals. Shop Kurobuta Hams → Pork Ribs Succulent and flavorful, ideal for smoking or slow-roasting. Perfect for gatherings or backyard meals. Shop Pork Ribs → Pork Roasts Show-stopping centerpiece cuts with exceptional flavor and tender texture, perfect for festive occasions. Shop Pork Roasts → Raising Kurobuta Pork: The Snake River Farms Difference At Snake River Farms, we approach Kurobuta Pork the same way we approach our American Wagyu — with a relentless focus on quality, flavor, and authenticity. Every Berkshire hog we raise is part of a carefully maintained purebred bloodline, nurtured on small family farms that prioritize humane practices and sustainable farming. From individualized feeding to monitoring every step of growth, our approach ensures that each hog develops the marbling, tenderness, and deep flavor that Kurobuta is known for. We never use growth promotants or shortcuts — the result is a true heritage pork experience that chefs and home cooks alike recognize for its superior eating quality. A Higher Level of Flavor The flavor of Kurobuta Pork starts on the farm. Because our Berkshire hogs are slow-grown and carefully fed, the meat develops: Exceptional marbling: Intramuscular fat that melts during cooking, enhancing flavor and juiciness. Tender texture: Meat that’s soft yet substantial, perfect for chops, roasts, and ribs. Deep pink color: A natural indicator of higher pH, which translates into richer, more flavorful bites. It’s this attention to detail that makes Kurobuta Pork consistently stand out from commodity pork — every cut is a flavorful, juicy, and satisfying experience. The Kurobuta Difference What really sets Kurobuta apart isn’t just the breed — it’s how we care for it. Marbling, higher pH, and richer flavor: Every bite is tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful. Small-batch care: Each hog receives individualized attention, allowing for slow, healthy growth. Sustainability & heritage: By maintaining purebred genetics and honoring traditional farming practices, we deliver pork that is both delicious and responsibly raised. Explore some of our favorite Kurobuta cuts and experience the difference for yourself:   Kurobuta Bacon Rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Elevate breakfast or add savory depth to any dish. Shop Kurobuta Bacon → Kurobuta Ham Fully cooked and ready for the table. Sweet, tender, and ideal for family gatherings or special meals. Shop Kurobuta Ham → Kurobuta Pork Ribs Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for smoking or slow roasting. A standout at any meal. Shop Kurobuta Ribs → Kurobuta Pork Roasts Show-stopping centerpieces with tender, flavorful meat. Ideal for holidays and special occasions. Shop Kurobuta Roasts → Berkshire Pork vs. Other Heritage Pork Breeds Not all heritage pork is created equal. While many heritage breeds offer unique flavors and textures, Kurobuta (Berkshire) pork consistently stands out for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. Comparing it side-by-side with other well-known breeds makes the difference clear. When it comes to flavor, tenderness, and overall dining experience, Kurobuta consistently outperforms other heritage breeds. Whether you’re roasting, grilling, or braising, it’s the choice for pork lovers who want every bite to deliver maximum flavor. Breed Marbling Level Flavor Profile Origin Best Uses Kurobuta (Berkshire) High Rich, juicy, and deeply flavorful England / Japan Chops, roasts, ribs, ham, specialty cuts Duroc Moderate Mild, slightly sweet United States Roasts, chops, bacon Iberico (Pata Negra) High (acorn-fed) Nutty, complex, slightly sweet Spain Cured hams, chops, roasts Chester White Low to moderate Mild, clean flavor United States Bacon, sausage, roasts How to Cook Kurobuta Pork Kurobuta Pork is a premium heritage pork that stands apart for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. Cooking it properly ensures every bite showcases the juicy, savory qualities that have made it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. In this guide, we’ll cover the best methods for each cut, beginner-friendly options, and links to recipes and products so you can enjoy the full Kurobuta experience. Chops & Roasts Kurobuta pork chops and roasts deliver a naturally rich, buttery flavor thanks to exceptional marbling and a deeper pink hue than commodity pork. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a holiday centerpiece, these cuts stay juicy and tender with simple preparation — no heavy seasoning required. Flavor Profile Expect a savory, almost steak-like depth with subtle nutty sweetness and a clean finish. The marbling creates a silky texture and “juicy bite” that stands out even before adding sauces or seasonings. Quick Tips For chops: Pan-sear or grill over medium-high heat, then rest for 5 minutes for maximum tenderness. For roasts: Slow-roast or oven-bake at 325 to 350°F until the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Season thoughtfully: Glazes, herbs, and rubs should enhance — not mask — the natural Kurobuta flavor. Guides, Recipes & Products Technique: The Best Way to Cook a Pork Chop Product: Kurobuta Pork Chops Recipe: Pork Chops with Mustard Cream Sauce, Mushrooms and Sautéed Spinach Technique: How to Prepare a Kurobuta Porchetta Product: Kurobuta Pork Roasts Recipe: Roasted Rack of Pork with Chestnut Apple Stuffing & Brown Butter Sage Sauce Shop Popular Kurobuta Cuts  Ready to bring exceptional flavor and tenderness to your table? Explore our top Kurobuta pork selections, perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or special occasions. Frenched Pork Chop Thick-cut chops with rich marbling for a naturally tender, juicy, and buttery flavor. Shop Frenched Pork Chop → Double Bone Pork Chop Extra-thick chops ideal for searing or grilling, perfect for a special dinner or celebration. Shop Double Bone Pork Chop → Rack of Pork A show-stopping roast with tender meat and a crisp, golden exterior for holiday entertaining. Shop Rack of Pork → Kurobuta Porchetta Expertly seasoned and rolled, offering melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and crackling-crisp skin. Shop Kurobuta Porchetta → Bacon, Ham & Breakfast Favorites Kurobuta bacon, hams, and breakfast cuts bring rich flavor and tender texture to every meal. These heritage pork cuts are naturally juicy, with savory depth that elevates everything from morning favorites to holiday spreads.Flavor Profile:Savory, slightly sweet when glazed, with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes Kurobuta stand out from regular pork. Quick Tips: Bacon: Pan-fry or bake slowly for even crisping. Ham: Fully cooked; warm gently, add glaze or scoring for presentation. Sausage & breakfast cuts: Cook until golden and let fat render for maximum flavor. Recommended guides, recipes & products: Bacon Product: Kurobuta Bacon Recipe: Fall BLT with Apple-Brined Uncured Bacon Ham Technique: Guide: How to Cook a Ham Product: Kurobuta Hams Recipe: Bourbon-Orange Glazed Kurobuta Ham Breakfast Favorites / Sausage Technique: Easy Breakfast Sausage Patties Guide Product: Kurobuta Sausage / Specialty Cuts Recipe: Leftover Ham — The Start of Something Delicious   Shop Bacon, Ham, and Breakfast Favorites Elevate your morning meals or festive gatherings with our Kurobuta bacon, ham, and breakfast sausage. These carefully crafted cuts deliver rich flavor, juicy tenderness, and effortless preparation — perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.   Kurobuta Bacon Thick-cut, naturally flavorful bacon with rich marbling that crisps perfectly for breakfast or brunch. Shop Kurobuta Bacon → Kurobuta Ham Fully cooked, tender, and juicy hams that shine with a simple glaze or as the centerpiece for any occasion. Shop Kurobuta Hams → Kurobuta Breakfast Sausage Juicy, flavorful sausage patties perfect for quick breakfasts, brunch, or elevating any morning meal. Shop Breakfast Sausage → Ribs & Specialty Items Kurobuta ribs and specialty pork cuts, including pork collars, shanks, and smoked pork steaks, offer deep, savory flavor with exceptional tenderness. These cuts are perfect for slow-cooking, braising, or smoking, delivering a rich, buttery mouthfeel that stands out even with minimal seasoning. Flavor Profile:Expect bold, savory notes with a natural sweetness from the pork’s marbling. Shanks and collars offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture when slow-cooked, while ribs and smoked steaks provide a smoky, caramelized finish that keeps every bite juicy. Quick Tips: Ribs: Slow-cook or smoke until the meat pulls easily from the bone. Finish with a glaze or BBQ sauce for a caramelized crust. Pork Collar: Oven-roast or braise at low temperature for several hours to develop deep flavor. Shanks & Steaks: Braise or smoke for rich, tender results; rest before slicing. Guides, Recipes & Products: Recipe: Tuffy Stone's Party Ribs with Honey Chili Crisp BBQ Sauce Product: Kurobuta Spare Ribs Recipe: Slow Cooker BBQ Pork Short Ribs with Green Apple and Toasted Pecan Slaw Product: Kurobuta Short Ribs Guide: Pork Collar vs Pork Shoulder Guide: How to Prepare a Snake River Farms Kurobuta Pork Collar in the Oven Product: Kurobuta Pork Collar Recipe: Braised Kurobuta Pork Shanks with Parmesan Risotto Product: Kurobuta Pork Shank Recipe: Weeknight Char Siu Smoked Pork Steaks Product: American Kurobuta Smoked Pork Steak Recipe: Bacon Bratwurst Cornbread Stuffing Product: Uncured Bacon Bratwurst   Shop Ribs & Specialty Items Bring bold, savory flavor and exceptional tenderness to your table with our Kurobuta ribs and specialty cuts. Perfect for slow-cooking, braising, or smoking, these selections deliver rich, buttery texture and flavor, making them ideal for weeknight meals, entertaining, or special occasions. Kurobuta Spare Ribs Perfectly marbled and tender ribs, ideal for slow-cooking or smoking with your favorite BBQ sauce. Shop Kurobuta Spare Ribs → Kurobuta Short Ribs Rich, flavorful short ribs that braise beautifully, delivering melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Shop Kurobuta Short Ribs → Kurobuta Pork Collar Juicy and flavorful, perfect for roasting or braising to highlight its natural marbling and tenderness. Shop Kurobuta Pork Collar → Kurobuta Pork Shank A deeply rich and tender cut that shines when slow-braised or smoked, delivering comfort-food perfection. Shop Kurobuta Pork Shank → Kurobuta Pork for Every Occasion From everyday meals to holiday feasts and gift-worthy selections, Kurobuta pork brings exceptional flavor and tenderness to every table. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner, entertaining friends and family, or selecting a thoughtful gift, there’s a Kurobuta cut for every occasion. Everyday MealsPerfect for simple, flavorful dinners in 30 minutes or less, Kurobuta pork shines in quick recipes like honey garlic pork bowls, a pork and broccoli stir-fry, or an air fryer Kurobuta katsu sando. Even weeknight dinners can taste indulgent with these fast, flavorful options. Gift-Worthy SelectionsElevate gifting with thoughtfully curated Kurobuta Pork Bestsellers, a Spare Rib Kit, or assorted pork favorites. These bundles make holidays, celebrations, or culinary gifts effortless and memorable.     What Chefs & Food Lovers Say   " the most delicious piece of meat you will ever eat in your life." - Al Roker, Today Show Host    "Snake River Farms Kurobuta stands alone in the pork world. The color is deep and vibrant and the fat, amazingly succulent and complex." - Chef Kris Komori, James Beard Semi-finalist   “I brined the Pork Short Ribs then smoked them. They were tender and had amazing flavor. I will order them again.” - Kenton, Verified Buyer    “Beyond what I expected in the pork shanks. Exceptional flavor, I did them braised, took a couple of days to do it correctly, but was in no way disappointed. So glad that I bought more. Would highly recommend” - Rodney Y., Verified Buyer   “Love combining this with the ground pork, very juicy burgers in 4 minutes on the grill!” - Christopher N., Verified Buyer   “Holy cow! Or pig! It is the BEST pork chop my husband and I ever ate. We’ve referred family and friends just for the taste alone! We order steaks etc but never knew a pork chop could be so good. It’s a once a week meal now. Thanks!” - Donna H., Verified Buyer   Frequently Asked Questions About Kurobuta Pork What makes Kurobuta different from regular pork? Kurobuta pork comes from purebred Berkshire pigs, known for exceptional marbling, tenderness, and a deep, buttery flavor that sets it apart from commodity pork. Is Kurobuta fatty? Kurobuta is more marbled than standard pork, which gives it a naturally juicy and tender texture. The fat is finely distributed throughout the meat, creating a rich, buttery taste rather than a greasy one. What’s the best cut of Kurobuta pork? It depends on your cooking style: chops and roasts are ideal for searing or slow-roasting; ribs are perfect for BBQ; collars and shanks excel in braising; and pork belly shines when roasted or smoked for crispy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Does Kurobuta pork require special cooking techniques? Kurobuta cooks just like regular pork but benefits from gentler heat to preserve its marbling and tenderness. Whether roasting, grilling, or braising, avoid overcooking to keep the interior juicy and flavorful. Is Kurobuta pork worth the price? Fans of premium pork consistently rank Kurobuta among the best in the world. Its marbling, deep flavor, and tenderness offer an elevated eating experience that makes it especially popular for holidays, special occasions, and show-stopping dinners. Unparalleled Flavor of Kurobuta Pork Discover why chefs and home cooks alike choose Kurobuta for its rich marbling, tender texture, and naturally buttery flavor. From weeknight dinners to show-stopping holiday roasts, Snake River Farms Kurobuta Pork elevates every meal. Shop All Kurobuta Pork Products →  

Gift Premium Maine Lobster There are gifts that get a polite thank-you… and then there are gifts people never forget. That’s why we believe lobster gifts are one of the most meaningful ways to elevate a holiday, milestone, or special celebration. It’s a luxurious culinary experience that feels indulgent yet approachable at home. We make premium lobster gifting simple — flash-frozen at peak freshness, shipped nationwide, and delivered straight to their door. Whether you’re surprising someone you love or planning a lobster dinner for your own gathering, this is a gift that leaves an impression.   Our Lobster Makes Exceptional Gifts We believe gifting should feel effortless — and unforgettable. That’s exactly what premium Maine lobster brings to the table: an elevated dining experience that doesn’t require a restaurant reservation. A True Luxury Experience Our wild-caught Maine lobster tails are naturally sweet and tender, making them a high-quality choice for any gift or special meal. Flash-frozen at peak freshness, each lobster tail preserves the flavor and texture you’d expect from a top-tier seafood experience. We offer 6–7 oz. tails and 16–20 oz. jumbo tails — perfect for a luxurious meal or for crafting classic lobster rolls at home. Perfect for Any OccasionLobster fits birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, corporate gifting, romantic dinners, and housewarmings — and it never feels generic. It’s a luxurious surprise that still remains incredibly simple to cook. Even someone who rarely prepares seafood can enjoy restaurant-quality lobster in their own kitchen. Effortless to Give and EnjoyWe ship nationwide, and every order includes traceable catch information so the recipient knows exactly where the lobster came from and how it was harvested. It’s high-end seafood without the guesswork — and without the hassle of coordinating shipping or planning ahead. Ready to delight someone with a memorable lobster experience? Shop our Maine Lobster Tails, Jumbo Lobster Tails, and Surf-and-Turf Collections today and send premium lobster straight to their door.   How We Deliver Lobster Gifts Placing a lobster order is simple with our nationwide delivery options. Each lobster tail arrives flash-frozen, guaranteeing that every order reaches your recipient in peak condition. Schedule delivery for any occasion, and trust that the high-quality seafood you send will impress.   Nationwide ShippingOur nationwide delivery program gives you flexible arrival windows, including peak holiday dates. Every shipment is backed by our frozen-arrival guarantee, so you can gift with confidence no matter where it’s going. Packaging Designed for FreshnessEvery order arrives in insulated packaging with ice packs, flash-frozen tails, and individually vacuum-sealed portions. We also include labels with the catch location and method, along with thawing and cooking instructions. Direct-to-Recipient OptionsWith our self-service gifting, you can complete a lobster order in just a few clicks. Add personalized messages, choose delivery dates, and send premium Maine lobster straight to your recipient’s door without any hassle. Tracking and ReliabilityYou can track every step of the shipment so you or your recipient can time thawing and cooking for the perfect meal — no surprises and no stress. Send premium Maine Lobster effortlessly with our Self-Service Gifting — schedule delivery, add a message, and delight your recipient.   Surf and Turf as Your Holiday Centerpiece Holiday meals are about shared moments, and lobster has a way of transforming the table into a celebration before anyone even takes a bite. Holiday Entertaining Made EasyWhether it’s Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s, or a winter gathering with friends, lobster adds warmth and ceremony to the meal while remaining surprisingly quick to cook. Presentation and ImpactThere’s a show-stopping quality to lobster — the vivid color, the aroma, the anticipation. It signals that the moment matters, which is why so many customers make it their signature holiday dinner. Menu PlanningLobster tails pair beautifully with Wagyu steak for a memorable surf-and-turf, seasonal roasted vegetables, or crisp winter greens. You can also use our lobster tails to make high-quality lobster rolls for a lighter option that still impresses your guests. One lobster tail per guest is usually perfect, or split a jumbo tail for two people. Lobster plays beautifully with: Wagyu Steak for an impressive surf-and-turf Seasonal roasted vegetables Caesar salad or winter greens Champagne, sparkling wine, or crisp whites Guest Count ConsiderationsThe easiest rule of thumb: one 6–7 oz. lobster tail per guest. For jumbo tails, one 16–20 oz. tail feeds two people comfortably. If pairing lobster with steak, a single standard tail per person is the perfect balance. Make your holiday table unforgettable — Maine Lobster Tails, Jumbo Lobster Tails, and Surf-and-Turf Collections for a show-stopping centerpiece.   Preparation Made Simple Preparing your lobster tails is easy — boil, bake, or grill them for a high-quality meal in minutes. For a creative twist, shred a lobster tail into a lobster roll for lunch or appetizers. Every lobster order includes thawing instructions and tips to maximize flavor, so you can enjoy restaurant-quality lobster without the stress. Simple Cooking MethodsWhen it comes to lobster tails, you can’t go wrong. The most popular methods are: Boiling (8 to 12 minutes) Baking at 425°F (12 to 15 minutes) Grilling (8 to 10 minutes) What Arrives & What You NeedEvery shipment includes individually packaged tails, thawing instructions, and prep tips. You’ll only need kitchen shears and butter or lemons if you want to keep it classic. Serving TipsSome of our favorite finishing touches: Drawn butter Garlic or herb butter Lemon wedges Chives or flaky salt Cook lobster like a pro — follow our lobster tail preparation guide for simple, foolproof techniques that deliver perfect results every time. Video Guide — Surf & Turf Made Easy:     Frequently Asked Questions How long do frozen lobster tails stay fresh? Our Maine lobster tails are flash-frozen at peak freshness and can be stored in your freezer for up to 6 months. Once thawed, they should be cooked within 24 hours for best quality. Can I send lobster directly to someone as a gift? Yes! We offer direct-to-recipient delivery, making gifting effortless. You can include a personalized message, and we'll ship the lobster straight to their door with all freshness guarantees intact. For gifting needs, visit our gifting page. How is the lobster packaged for shipping? Each order arrives in insulated packaging with ice packs to maintain proper temperature. The lobster tails are individually vacuum-sealed and flash-frozen. Each package includes labels showing the catch location and method, plus thawing and preparation instructions. What's the best way to prepare lobster tails? Lobster tails are incredibly versatile and simple to prepare. Popular methods include boiling (8–12 minutes), baking at 425°F (12–15 minutes), or grilling (8–10 minutes). They pair beautifully with drawn butter, garlic, and fresh lemon.  How much lobster should I order per person? For a main course, plan on one 6–7 oz. tail per person or one 16–20 oz. jumbo tail for two people. If serving lobster as part of a surf-and-turf meal alongside steak, one standard tail per person is typically perfect. What occasions are best for gifting lobster? Lobster gifts are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, corporate appreciation, romantic dinners, or any celebration where you want a memorable culinary experience. They also make stunning holiday centerpieces. Where does your lobster come from? Our lobster is wild-caught from the cold waters off the coast of Maine. Each tail is traceable with catch location and method, ensuring authentic, sustainably sourced Maine lobster known for its naturally sweet and tender meat. Can I track my lobster delivery? Yes! Every shipment includes tracking information so you can monitor your delivery and plan your meal preparation accordingly. We guarantee your lobster arrives frozen and fresh. Send a Gift They’ll Never Forget Delight someone with a luxurious lobster experience. Shop our Maine Lobster Tails, Jumbo Lobster Tails, and Surf-and-Turf Collections today and have premium lobster delivered straight to their door.  

Beef Tallow Potato Chips: The Ultimate Snack Without Seed Oils Remember when McDonald's fries tasted different? That was the magic of beef tallow. For many of us, it’s a nostalgic flavor—rich, savory, and completely unforgettable. At Snake River Farms, we’ve spent years perfecting American Wagyu beef, and now we’re taking that same dedication to flavor and quality and applying it to our latest creation: Beef Tallow Potato Chips. These aren’t just any chips. We’ve used our Wagyu beef tallow—rendered from the finest cuts of American Wagyu beef—to craft a chip that’s not only crispy but also delivers a flavor depth that’s hard to find in the world of mass-produced snacks. The result is a kettle-style chip that’s golden, crunchy, and cooked with real beef tallow—no seed oils here. Simple, Quality Ingredients Our Beef Tallow Potato Chips are made with only 3 premium ingredients:  Idaho Potatoes - Non-GMO and grown in the volcanic soil of Idaho for the ultimate crunch.  Wagyu Beef Tallow - Rendered from the finest American Wagyu beef for unparalleled richness and flavor.  Rocky Mountain Salt - Unrefined and perfectly balanced to enhance the natural taste of the potatoes.  No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Just pure, natural goodness in every bite.  Whether you're snacking on their own or pairing them with your next steak night, these chips bring a new level of flavor to any occasion. Shop Beef Tallow Potato Chips: 6 oz Bags - 5 Pack → Perfect for sharing or stocking up 1.5 oz Bags - 12 Pack → Ideal for on-the-go snacking   What Makes Tallow Chips Different At Snake River Farms, we’re all about real ingredients—and our Beef Tallow Potato Chips are no exception. But what exactly is beef tallow, and why is it such a game-changer for our chips? Beef tallow is the rendered fat from beef. It’s been used in cooking for centuries, prized for its rich flavor and high smoke point. Unlike many modern oils, which can break down under heat and introduce off-flavors or unhealthy compounds, beef tallow remains stable, even when heated to high temperatures. This makes it the ideal fat for frying, ensuring our chips are crispy and golden without any unwanted flavor. When it comes to preparation, we use the kettle-cooked method, a traditional approach that slow-fries the chips in small batches. This method enhances the texture, giving each chip that perfect crunch while locking in the flavor of the tallow. Compared to chips fried in seed oils, our Beef Tallow Potato Chips have better heat stability, a cleaner, richer flavor, and fewer additives. Seed oils like canola or sunflower oil can leave an oily aftertaste, while beef tallow adds a subtle, savory depth that makes each bite more satisfying. Plus, with our chips, you’ll never find any industrial processing or mystery ingredients. But what really sets our chips apart is the tallow itself. We use American Wagyu beef tallow, sourced from our own heritage-quality Wagyu cattle. This beef is known for its exceptional marbling, which translates into a tallow with a smooth, luxurious texture and an unmatched depth of flavor. It’s this Wagyu tallow that gives our chips their signature richness and authenticity. Learn more about how we use beef tallow in cooking → Why Choose Chips Without Seed Oil There’s been a growing interest in seed-oil-free snacks, and that’s because more and more people are looking for options that align with their preferences for more natural, minimally processed ingredients. While seed oils like canola, sunflower, and soybean oil are widely used in the food industry and are perfectly safe for consumption, many individuals are seeking alternatives due to concerns over industrial processing and the desire for simpler, more traditional ingredients. At Snake River Farms, we’re always looking for ways to create snacks that deliver the best in both flavor and quality. That’s why we chose beef tallow for our chips. It’s a cooking fat that’s been used for centuries, offering a natural, clean flavor that adds a richness to our chips you won’t find in many other snacks today. Here are a few reasons why we love cooking with beef tallow: Naturally high smoke point: Beef tallow can withstand higher temperatures without breaking down, ensuring that our chips fry to crispy perfection without losing any flavor. No industrial processing: Unlike many seed oils, which often go through heavy refining, our beef tallow is rendered with care, keeping it as natural and pure as possible. Richer, fuller flavor: The deep, savory flavor of beef tallow complements the potatoes in a way that seed oils simply can’t match. The result is a snack that’s not just crispy, but also satisfying and full of depth. For those who prefer a more natural cooking fat, beef tallow offers a time-honored alternative that’s both flavorful and simple. We believe in keeping things real—using high-quality ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Taste Profile: Golden, Crisp, and Deeply Savory When you take a bite of Snake River Farms Beef Tallow Potato Chips, you’ll immediately notice the perfect balance of crispness and richness. The light crunch is just the beginning. These chips are slow-fried in Wagyu beef tallow, giving them a satisfying depth of flavor that lingers—subtle notes of beef umami add a savory layer that elevates the traditional potato chip experience. But these chips aren’t just for snacking. They’re the ideal companion for your next meal. Their rich, full-bodied taste pairs perfectly with a wide variety of dishes, from steak night to BBQs and even gourmet dips. Whether you’re pairing them with your favorite cut of beef or enjoying them as part of a larger spread, these chips bring an elevated touch to every bite. How to Enjoy Beef Tallow Potato Chips Our Beef Tallow Potato Chips are perfect straight from the bag, but they can also elevate any dish where you'd typically use traditional chips. Here are a few simple ideas: 1. Steakhouse Nachos An elevated dish for game day or entertaining. Ingredients: Snake River Farms beef tallow chips 6 oz shaved ribeye steak 1 cup aged cheddar, shredded 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños 2 tablespoons crème fraîche 1 tablespoons chives, chopped Instructions: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer chips on a baking sheet. Top with shaved ribeye, cheddar, and jalapeños. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with a dollop of crème fraiche and sprinkle chives on top. Serve immediately. 2. Crispy Tallow Chip-Crusted Salmon Simple, impressive, and delicious. Ingredients: Snake River Farms beef tallow chips (about 1 cup crushed) 4 salmon fillets (SRF wild caught King Salmon or Alaskan Sockeye Salmon) 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper to taste Fresh lemon wedges (optional) Instructions: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Crush chips into small, coarse crumbs and set aside. Rub salmon fillets with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Press the crushed chips onto the flesh side of the salmon to form a crust. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and the crust is golden. Serve with a wedge of lemon for added brightness. 3. Salted Caramel Tallow Chip Clusters A sweet-savory dessert for a surprising twist. Ingredients: Snake River Farms beef tallow chips (about 1 cup, broken into pieces) 4 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa) 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce Flaky sea salt Instructions: Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method). Stir in salted caramel sauce until fully combined. Toss the chip pieces in the chocolate-caramel mixture until evenly coated. Spread the mixture onto a parchment-lined tray and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, or until set. Break into clusters and serve. 4. Loaded Chip & Dip Board Perfect for snacking and entertaining. Ingredients: Snake River Farms beef tallow chips 1 cup French onion dip 1/2 cup blue cheese spread 1/2 cup smoked trout dip 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard Instructions: Arrange chips on a large platter as the centerpiece. Place bowls of French onion dip, blue cheese spread, smoked trout dip, and whole grain mustard around the chips. Serve with fresh veggies, crackers, or additional snacks for variety. This is perfect for casual gatherings or parties.   The Story Behind Our Beef Tallow At Snake River Farms, we don’t just create products; we honor the heritage of our ingredients. Our beef tallow is a natural byproduct of our American Wagyu program, which means we’re using every part of the animal, embracing a more sustainable approach to cooking. This is a return to the way things used to be, where nothing went to waste, and each element of the animal was celebrated for its unique contribution. Tallow has been used for centuries as the preferred fat for frying, prized for its rich, clean flavor and high smoke point. In fact, chips were originally cooked in tallow until the 1990s, when cost-saving measures and the quest for longer shelf life led to a widespread switch to seed oils. These oils, while cheaper and more shelf-stable, don't bring the same depth of flavor or craftsmanship that tallow offers. Today, we're bringing tallow back—not just as a nostalgic throwback, but as a conscious choice. Our Wagyu beef tallow is rendered with the same care we put into our beef, ensuring a product that’s as rich in flavor as it is in tradition. By choosing beef tallow, we’re honoring an old-world technique that puts quality, sustainability, and real flavor at the forefront. In a world of mass production, our use of beef tallow is a reminder of the simpler, more sustainable ways of cooking—where quality ingredients and time-honored methods come together to create something truly special. Shop Beef Tallow Potato Chips: 6 oz Bags - 5 Pack → Perfect for sharing or stocking up 1.5 oz Bags - 12 Pack → Ideal for on-the-go snacking

A Guide to Winter Grilling When the temperature drops and snow starts to fall, many grillers retire their equipment for the season. But for Chris Schemm of Team SRF, winter is just another opportunity to fire up his Big Green Egg. Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin — where January averages a frosty 26°F — Chris proves that great barbecue doesn’t stop when summer ends. I’m outside all winter cooking the same things as the summer — steaks, brisket, whatever. I do hot and fast cooking and my share of low and slow. Cold weather brings unique grilling challenges, but with the right gear, preparation, and mindset, you can cook confidently year-round. Whether you’re using a Big Green Egg, charcoal, gas, or pellet grill, these winter grilling tips will help you succeed.   Chris Schemm’s Winter Grilling Tips Allow Extra Time to Preheat Frigid air means your grill takes longer to reach the desired temperature. Be patient and give it the time it needs before placing food on the grate. Stock Up on Fuel Grills work harder in cold temperatures. Whether you use charcoal, gas or wood pellets, expect to burn more fuel than usual just to maintain cooking temperature. Plan ahead and keep extra on hand. Clear a Path to Your Grill Before you start cooking, shovel a safe walkway and clear snow or ice from around the grill. Make sure all vents and lids are free of snow so your grill can function properly. Light the Area Winter days are short. Make sure your grill station is well-lit so you can see what you're doing safely — especially if you're grilling after dark. Use a Wireless Thermometer No need to hover outside in the cold. A Bluetooth thermometer — like the ones from Meater or ThermoWorks — lets you monitor internal temperatures from your cozy kitchen. Keep the Lid Closed It’s tempting to peek, but lifting the lid lets out valuable heat. Trust your thermometer, keep the lid shut and let your grill do its job. Prep Ingredients Indoors Cold air can freeze your herbs, sauces and prep ingredients in seconds. Keep everything inside until it’s time to cook to ensure quality and convenience. Dress Warm, But Smart Layer up but avoid anything loose or dangling that could catch fire — like a long scarf. Chris protects his hands with insulated grill mitts, which serve double duty: heat protection and warmth. Grill in a Protected (But Open) Area Chris built a pergola over his grill to shield it from wind and snow. Just remember: protected doesn’t mean enclosed. Never grill inside a garage or anywhere without proper ventilation — safety first. Embrace the Chill Grilling in winter isn’t just doable — it can be deeply rewarding. The contrast of the sizzling grill against a snowy backdrop makes for a memorable cooking experience. With Chris Schemm’s advice and a little extra prep, you can enjoy smoky, flame-kissed meals no matter the season. So bundle up, spark the coals and show winter who’s boss. Shop SRF for Winter Grilling Enhance your winter BBQ with premium cuts that perform perfectly in cold-weather cooking. With Chris Schemm’s advice and a little extra preparation, you can enjoy smoky, flame-kissed meals no matter the season. Wagyu Prime Rib Celebrate your next special occasion with an SRF American Wagyu prime rib roast. Hand-cut and aged for ideal flavor and texture. Shop Wagyu Prime Rib → Wagyu Sausages & Hot Dogs Crafted from 100% American Wagyu beef with signature spices. Perfect for grilling and backyard cookouts. Shop Wagyu Sausages → Double R Ranch Prime Rib Northwest source-certified prime rib roasts for a classic presentation and jaw-dropping flavor. Shop Double R Ranch Prime Rib → Wagyu Steaks From traditional steakhouse favorites to unique cuts, our American Wagyu steaks impress with rich marbling and flavor. Shop Wagyu Steaks → Meet Chris Schemm Chris Schemm is a grilling expert with Team SRF, sharing seasonal barbecue advice and recipes for year-round outdoor cooking. Follow Chris @thatgrillerguy.

A Chef’s Holiday Meal If you want to host a holiday meal that’s both stress-free and memorable, follow along as Chef Alex Cardoza guides you through a festive Christmas Eve dinner. From a show-stopping prime rib to make-ahead sides, decadent desserts, and approachable cocktails, Alex shares the exact steps he uses to wow his family every year. You don’t have to spend all day in the kitchen. Invest in a great prime rib and pair it with simple, delicious sides. I’ll show you exactly how to plan and prep everything for a relaxed, multi-course holiday meal. – Chef Alex Cardoza   Meet Chef Alex Cardoza Chef Alex takes December 24th off every year to host a family dinner. He and his wife, Tara Morgan, run Susina, a European bistro in Boise, Idaho. With years of experience in New York kitchens like The Spotted Pig, as well as catering and running restaurants in Boise, Alex has perfected the art of a celebratory holiday meal. Chef Alex Cardoza Chef Alex Cardoza is the co-owner of Susina, a European bistro in Boise, Idaho, which he runs with his wife, Tara Morgan. With roots in New York kitchens like The Spotted Pig and years of experience catering and running restaurants in Boise, Alex brings approachable technique and restaurant-quality flavor to every dish he creates. Follow Alex: SusinaBoise.com | @SusinaBoise The Holiday Menu The Adonis Cocktail – a light, balanced aperitif. SRF Bone-In Prime Rib – the show-stopping centerpiece. Find Your Perfect Holiday Prime Rib → Twice Baked Potatoes – creamy, make-ahead comfort food. Roasted Carrots with Green Herb Sauce – perfectly tender and flavorful. Steamed Green and Yellow Beans – quick, fresh, and colorful. Flourless Chocolate Cake – rich, decadent, and easy to prep. You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Invest in a great prime rib and pair it with easy, make-ahead sides.   Complete Prime Rib Guide Cooking the perfect holiday prime rib doesn’t have to be intimidating. Follow these steps for a tender, juicy roast with a golden crust. Choosing Your Roast Plan for 1 pound per guest; leftovers are a holiday bonus. Bone-in preferred for maximum flavor and presentation. Learn more about bone-in vs. boneless Part 1: Preparation & Dry Brining Rest the roast at room temperature for 2 hours. This ensures even cooking. Rub with 1 teaspoon kosher salt per pound on all surfaces. Refrigerate uncovered for 8 to 72 hours to dry brine. Bring to room temperature again 2 to 3 hours before cooking.   Dry brining is crucial — it gives you a golden exterior and perfectly seasoned interior. Even a quick 8-hour brine will make a noticeable difference.   Part 2: Low & Slow Method (Restaurant-Quality) For the patient cook who wants perfectly pink meat edge-to-edge: Preheat oven to 250°F. Roast until internal temperature reaches 125 to 130°F. Optional: increase oven to 500°F for 5 to 10 minutes to crisp the exterior. Rest 30 to 60 minutes before slicing. This method produces the most evenly cooked prime rib. Use your eyes as much as your thermometer — the final sear is optional if your crust is already perfect. Part 3: Time-Pressed Method If you’re short on time but still want excellent results: Preheat oven to 425°F (375°F convection). Roast 2 hours, or until internal temp reaches 95 to105°F. Rest 1 hour at room temperature.   Carryover cooking is your friend. Pulling the roast early ensures medium-rare perfection even under time pressure. Part 4:Temperature & Equipment Rare: 120°F | Medium-Rare: 130°F | Medium: 145°F max Oven-safe probe thermometer with alarm recommended Resting: minimum 30 minutes, ideally 45 to 60 minutes A thermometer is non-negotiable. I leave mine in while resting to see exactly where the temperature ends up. Part 5: Slicing & Portions Cut 2 to 3” slabs first, then slice into smaller pieces. Guests can choose their preferred doneness, and you maximize yield. Family-style serving is more relaxed — each person can take exactly what they want.   Make-Ahead Holiday Sides Holiday entertaining is easier when sides are prepped ahead. From creamy twice-baked potatoes to perfectly roasted carrots, these recipes can be made in advance so you can focus on your prime rib and enjoy the day with family and friends. Twice Baked Potatoes This classic side is perfect for entertaining and can be prepared entirely in advance. Assemble and refrigerate up to 3 days before serving, then bake when ready. Quantities are based on 12-oz russet potatoes, serving 2 (1 potato per person). Ingredients: 2 large russet potatoes (~12 oz each) Oil and salt for rubbing potatoes ¼ cup butter ¼ cup sour cream ½ cup grated cheddar cheese, divided ¼ cup sliced scallions, divided ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste) 2 tablespoons bacon, cooked and chopped (optional) Instructions: First Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F. Wash and pat dry potatoes; prick all over with a fork. Rub lightly with oil and salt. Bake until tender, about 1 hour. Prepare Filling: While potatoes bake, cook and chop bacon (if using) and gather remaining ingredients. Remove potatoes from oven, keeping it at 375°F. Let potatoes cool until safe to handle. (Tip: Disposable gloves make this easier.) Assemble: Cut the tops off the potatoes (save for potato skins if desired). Scoop out the flesh and break up gently with a fork. Mix potato flesh with butter, sour cream, bacon, half the cheese, half the scallions, and salt. For best results, use a stand mixer until smooth. Stuff the potato shells with the mixture. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. At this point, potatoes can be refrigerated up to 3 days. Second Bake: Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, rotating once halfway through. Potatoes are ready when cheese is golden and slightly puffy. Garnish with remaining scallions before serving.   These potatoes can be made completely ahead of time, freeing you to focus on the prime rib and other dishes on the big day.   Perfect Roasted Carrots Most roasted carrot recipes skip a crucial step: parboiling. This two-step method ensures perfectly tender, creamy carrots every time. You can prep them up to 3 days in advance, making them ideal for holiday entertaining. Roasting raw carrots directly in a hot oven can leave the centers undercooked — the water step is essential. Ingredients: 3 lbs. fresh carrots (any variety) Salt for boiling water Oil for roasting (your preference) Additional salt for seasoning 2 to 3 tablespoon butter Fresh lemon juice for serving Salsa verde (optional) Chef Tip: Make-Ahead Option— Roast carrots a few hours in advance and rewarm in the oven before serving. Instructions: Prepare Carrots: Decide on your carrot prep method: Large grocery store carrots: peel and chop as desired Petite bunched carrots: wash well and leave whole Place carrots in a large pot with plenty of boiling, salted water. Taste the water — it should be pleasantly seasoned. Boil until tender throughout, longer than you might expect. This is not a quick blanch — the goal is fully cooked cores. Remove carrots and spread on a sheet pan in a single layer to cool completely. Roast to Finish: Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss pre-cooked carrots with oil and lightly season with salt if needed. Arrange in a single layer on a sheet pan. Roast for about 20 minutes, until edges begin to brown. Add butter and roast 5 more minutes, letting it brown slightly for a warm, nutty flavor. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice before serving. Serve with salsa verde if desired.   The parboil ensures the inside is tender while roasting adds flavor and a touch of caramelization. It’s the difference between ‘good’ and ‘restaurant-quality’ carrots. Chef’s Note: Quick Green Veggie Add-On: Steam asparagus or green beans, then season with butter, salt, and pepper for a fast, fresh addition to your holiday plate. Universal Green Herb Sauce This versatile sauce is inspired by chimichurri, salsa verde, and herb sauces from around the world. It’s incredibly flexible — you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes or the dish you’re serving. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or fish, and makes about 2 cups (a strong pint). Base Ingredients: 8 ounces fresh soft herbs, peppers, or seeds (see optional additions) 2¾ tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1½ ounce ice ¾ cup olive oil 1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped 1 teaspoon chili sauce (house chili sauce or Sriracha) ½ teaspoon fish sauce 1½ teaspoon salt Optional Additions: Horseradish Capers Pickles Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a food processor or high-powered blender (like a Vitamix) for the smoothest results. Blend until you achieve a relatively smooth paste. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more lemon, salt, or chili sauce depending on your preference. This sauce is incredibly forgiving — start simple, then taste and tweak. It’s perfect for adding brightness and depth to your holiday vegetables or your prime rib.   Flourless Chocolate Cake This decadent dessert is technically a chocolate soufflé. It will puff beautifully in the oven and naturally deflate as it cools — this is completely normal. Embrace the rustic, slightly sunken appearance; it’s part of the cake’s charm. Serves 8 to 12. Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (3 oz.), plus more for pan Cocoa powder, for dusting 8 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped 6 large eggs, separated ½ cup granulated sugar (100 g) Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting Sweetened whipped cream, for serving Instructions: Prepare Pan and Oven: Preheat oven to 275°F with rack in center position. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. Dust the buttered pan with cocoa powder and set aside.   Make Chocolate Base: Melt chocolate and butter together in a double boiler to form a smooth ganache. Whisk in the egg yolks. (Note: mixture may appear “broken” — this is normal.)   Prepare Meringue and Combine: In a stand mixer, beat egg whites with granulated sugar until glossy stiff peaks form. Fold ¼ of the meringue into the chocolate mixture to lighten it. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites until just combined.   Bake and Serve: Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake 45 to 50 minutes, until the cake pulls away from the sides and is set and puffed in the center. Cool completely on a wire rack, then remove the sides of the springform pan. Serve at room temperature, dusted with confectioner’s sugar and topped with whipped cream if desired. Don’t worry if the center sinks slightly — that’s what makes a flourless chocolate cake rich, rustic, and indulgent. For extra flair, serve with fresh berries or a drizzle of green herb sauce for a subtle contrast.   The Adonis Cocktail This elegant cocktail balances sweet, fruity, and bitter flavors. Complex yet approachable, it has a low alcohol content, making it the perfect aperitif to start your holiday evening. Ingredients: 1½ ounces dry sherry (Amontillado or Fino) 1½ ounces sweet vermouth 2 dashes orange bitters Orange twist, for garnish Instructions: Fill a mixing glass with ice and shake the sherry, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters until chilled. Strain into a coupe or small cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange twist and serve neat.   This cocktail is all about balance — take the time to shake it just enough to chill without diluting. The orange twist adds a bright, aromatic finish that pairs beautifully with the richness of a prime rib holiday meal.   Closing & Holiday Tips Chef Alex reminds us: focus on the center-of-the-plate, invest in quality ingredients, and prep what you can ahead of time. A multi-course meal doesn’t have to be stressful when you plan wisely. Find Your Perfect Holiday Prime Rib →   Follow this plan and your holiday meal will be remembered long after the season ends.

Season’s Eatings–SRF All Day Long The holidays are a time for family, friends, and food. From festive centerpieces to simple everyday meals, Team SRF member Chad Montano shares easy breakfast, lunch, and dinner ideas featuring Snake River Farms American Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork that keep your household happy all season. Chad, a professional food photographer from San Diego and original member of Team SRF, has been cooking with SRF products since 2019. “Snake River Farms is a part of my life and who I am,” he says. “I use SRF products for everything from special dinners to quick, everyday meals.”   Easy Breakfast Idea: Potato Rosti with Eggs & Kurobuta Bacon Start your morning right with a simple yet elevated breakfast. This dish combines crispy potato rosti, creamy scrambled eggs, and salty SRF Kurobuta Bacon. “When I think of breakfast, I go right to eggs, bacon, and potatoes. This dish takes these basic ingredients and makes a simple but elevated presentation that my family and I enjoy. The golden brown potato rosti adds crunch and texture. It’s the perfect vessel for creamy scrambled eggs and crispy, salty bacon,” shares Chad Montano, Team SRF member. Prep & Cook: 10 min prep | 20 min cook | Serves 1 to 2 Ingredients: 4 slices SRF Kurobuta Bacon 1 large russet potato 4 cage-free eggs ½ tablespoons fresh goat cheese 1 green onion, chopped 1 teaspoon sea salt 2 knobs unsalted cold butter Pinch of black pepper Olive oil Instructions (Quick Overview): Cook bacon in skillet or air fryer. Grate and dry potato, then fry into golden, crispy rosti. Scramble eggs with butter and goat cheese until creamy. Plate rosti topped with eggs, bacon, and green onion. Full Instructions: Cook bacon. Chad notes: “I use a skillet, but feel free to use an air fryer or your preferred method.” Wash and dry the potato. Grate into shreds using the large holes of a food grater. Transfer potato shreds to a piece of cheesecloth or dish towel, wrap tightly, and squeeze out excess water. Transfer to a bowl, season with salt and black pepper. Preheat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add enough olive oil to coat the pan (about 2 tbsp). When hot, add potatoes and press down tightly with a spatula. Cook 3–4 minutes until edges are golden. Flip onto a plate, add more oil, and cook the other side 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a plate and sprinkle with sea salt. Crack eggs into a bowl and beat vigorously. Add butter to the skillet, then eggs. Cook over low heat, constantly mixing, until almost done. Add goat cheese, remove from heat, and continue stirring until creamy. To serve, plate the potato rosti and top with eggs, bacon, and green onion. Enjoy! Shop the Ingredients: Kurobuta Bacon → Easy Lunch Idea: Fancy Steak Sandwich For lunch or a casual dinner, a high-quality steak sandwich hits every note: beefy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. SRF New York Strip makes this simple yet satisfying. “I love a good steak sandwich! A great sandwich starts with high-quality beef, so I used the SRF New York Strip. It’s beautifully marbled, beefy, and delicious. It doesn’t need much—just a little salt and pepper and a nice crust. A quick pan sauce and cheese add layers of flavor. It’s perfect to split with someone you love,” shares Chad Montano, Team SRF member.   Prep & Cook: 30 min prep | 30 min cook | Serves 1 to 2 Ingredients: 1 SRF New York Strip 1 fresh baguette 3–4 slices provolone cheese 1 cup beef stock 1 small shallot, diced 2 knobs unsalted cold butter Sea salt & pepper Neutral oil   Instructions (Quick Overview): Season steak and let rest. Cook in skillet to medium-rare, flipping often. Make pan sauce with shallots, beef stock, and butter. Toast bread with cheese, layer sliced steak, drizzle pan sauce.   Full Instructions: Season the steak with salt and pepper and allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of neutral oil, then carefully add the steak. Cook for 2 minutes, flip, then cook another 2 minutes and flip again. Continue flipping every minute until desired doneness. Chad likes medium-rare: internal temperature 128°F. Remove steak and let rest 10–15 minutes. In the same pan, cook shallots for 2 minutes, then add beef stock and bring to a boil. Reduce to medium-low and simmer until reduced by half (5–7 minutes). Stir in butter and adjust seasoning. Cut bread to match steak length, slice in half, drizzle with olive oil, and toast in the oven. Layer cheese, sliced steak, and drizzle with pan sauce. Serve and savor!   Shop the Ingredients: New York Strip →   Easy Dinner Idea: Panko Crusted Pork Cutlets with Honey Mustard A holiday crowd-pleaser for dinner, this dish combines juicy SRF pork cutlets with crunchy panko and a creamy honey mustard sauce.“These are a crowd pleaser! The SRF pork is beautifully marbled and full of flavor. I love using panko breadcrumbs to add the ultimate crunch, and the rosemary pairs perfectly with the pork. I prefer to make my own sauces and dressings from scratch because they just taste better. This honey mustard is creamy, tangy, and extremely easy to whip up,” shares Chad Montano.Prep & Cook: 20 min prep | 30 min cook | Serves 1 to 2Ingredients:Pork Cutlets 2 SRF boneless pork chops 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 1 sprig fresh rosemary, chopped 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese 2 eggs, beaten 2 tablespoons flour ½ cup vegetable oil Sea salt & pepper Honey Mustard Sauce: ¼ cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons honey Pinch of salt & pepper Instructions (Quick Overview): Butterfly pork, season, and dredge in egg, flour, then panko mix. Fry in skillet until golden brown and internal temp reaches 145°F. Mix honey mustard ingredients. Serve cutlets with sauce.   Full Instructions: To make the honey mustard sauce, combine all ingredients in a small bowl and adjust seasoning to taste. Butterfly the pork chops by cutting them in half lengthwise, leaving one end attached. Open gently, cover with parchment, and pound to ¼ inch thick. Season with salt. In a large bowl, combine panko, chopped rosemary, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In another bowl, mix eggs and flour. Dredge each pork cutlet in the egg/flour mixture, then roll in panko, pressing firmly to adhere. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add oil. Once hot, cook cutlets 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 145°F. Transfer to a cooling rack and season lightly with salt. Plate the crispy cutlets and drizzle or serve with the honey mustard sauce. Shop the Ingredients: Boneless Pork Chops →   Tips for Serving SRF All Day Long Plan simple, festive meals throughout the holidays to reduce stress. Involve family members in prep and plating — kids love helping. High-quality meat like SRF makes even simple dishes shine. Keep leftovers organized for quick next-day meals.   Make the Holidays Easy with SRF: Planning holiday meals doesn’t have to be stressful. With Snake River Farms, you can elevate every breakfast, lunch, and dinner with high-quality American Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork that make even simple dishes feel special. From quick weekday meals to festive showstoppers, SRF products help you create memorable moments with minimal effort. Explore our full selection of holiday favorites and gift-worthy cuts in the Snake River Farms Holiday Guide to make this season delicious, easy, and unforgettable.   Chad Montano @BrieWilly Chad is a professional food and lifestyle photographer from San Diego. He combines his two passions to create high-quality content for restaurants and brands in the food industry, and has been cooking SRF products since 2019.  

Holiday Meal Planning Made Easy Flash forward to that “cheers” moment when you’ve finally taken your seat at the table. Each plate looks like it belongs in a magazine. Candles glow over the holly and pine centerpiece. You’re calm, collected, and somehow pulling off Martha Stewart-level hosting like it’s second nature. A holiday miracle? Not exactly. Just smart planning. Planning ahead is the way to get the best experience. You can make a lot in advance and freeze it. It’ll still taste fresh and bright. — Chef Lisa Peterson, A’Tavola, Boise Chef Lisa Peterson Lisa Peterson, chef and owner of A’Tavola, a gourmet marketplace and café in downtown Boise, knows that hosting a happy occasion starts well before the guests arrive. She creates full holiday meals in advance for families and swears by one golden rule: prep early, enjoy more. Three Rules to Live By for Stress-Free Holiday Hosting Start Early: Your future self will thank you. Write Everything Down: Don’t trust your memory after the third batch of cookies. Do What You Can Handle: You don’t actually have to be Ina Garten.   Holiday Meal Planning Timeline 6 Weeks Out Finalize your guest list: Good food starts with good company. Start your playlist: Set the vibe early. Recruit family DJs to curate music. Plan your menu: Pick mains, sides, desserts, and drinks. Be realistic and delegate dishes if needed. Check dietary restrictions: Gluten-free cousin? Lactose-intolerant niece? Plan accordingly. Reserve rentals: Don’t assume grandma’s folding chairs or extra tables are available.   4 Weeks Out Place your Snake River Farms order: Frozen at peak age, the meat course is easy to order in advance. December 1st is perfect for Christmas delivery. Plan your drinks: Stock the bar, supply wine, and craft a signature cocktail (and mocktails). Consider pairings with your centerpiece roast. Explore drink pairings for American Wagyu → Deep clean your kitchen and dining areas: Create space ready for magic. Inventory your holiday dishes: Do you have enough serving platters, roasting pans, and wine glasses?   2–3 Weeks Out Create your master grocery list: Organize by category for efficiency. Plan your tablescape: Get creative and seasonal — think sugared cranberries, candles, holly, or Grandma’s china. Need Inspiration? Plan Your Holiday tablescape  →    1 Week Out Thaw your beef or centerpiece roast: Prime rib or tomahawk may take several days to thaw completely. Sealed Snake River Farms products stay fresh in the fridge for up to 7 days. See our guide to thawing large cuts → Clean out fridge and freezer: Make space for prepped dishes and leftovers. Buy non-perishables: Stock canned goods, flour, sugar, and other essentials. Prep freezer-friendly dishes: Casseroles, pies, and gravy can be made ahead and frozen.   3–4 Days Out Shop for perishables: Fresh produce, dairy, herbs, and bread. Prep ingredients: Chop onions, peel potatoes, make cranberry sauce, or cube bread for stuffing. Set the table (if possible): Gather napkins, plates, silverware, and décor in advance.   1–2 Days Out Make salads and fresh dishes: Wash greens, chop veggies, and mix dressings ahead of time. Chill beverages: Keep wine, cocktails, and soft drinks ready in the fridge or cooler.   Little hands, big help: Kids can pitch in with table setup or simple prep tasks. They love having a role!   Christmas Morning Start your centerpiece roast or ham early: The main course takes time — plan ahead. Bake appetizers, casseroles, and reheat sides: Timing is key to serving everything hot.   I serve prime rib for Christmas dinner. If it’s Snake River Farms, it’s already delicious. Just season well with salt and freshly cracked pepper, start at high heat, then lower. With a good piece of meat, you don’t need to do too much.   It’s Go Time Set out appetizers and drinks: Guests can nibble while you finish the main meal. Freezer-friendly options like baked brie with a holiday egg wash design are perfect. Tidy up: Clear surfaces, put away prep tools, and empty the dishwasher for post-meal cleanup. Just before guests arrive: Light candles or twinkle lights, turn on your holiday playlist, take a deep breath, smile, and pour a drink.   Holiday hosting doesn’t have to be a high-stress, low-sleep affair. With the right plan and a solid checklist, you can actually enjoy the moment you’ve worked so hard to create.   Shop for Your SRF Holiday Centerpiece Each roast is frozen at peak age, ready to cook, and guaranteed to impress, making it easy to plan ahead while enjoying stress-free holiday hosting. Make your holiday table unforgettable with a showstopping centerpiece: American Wagyu Tenderloin Roast Exceptionally tender and elegant. Perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions when presentation matters. Shop American Wagyu Tenderloin Roast → Bone-In Prime Rib Roast A timeless holiday centerpiece with rich, beefy flavor. The bone enhances juiciness and visual appeal at the table. Shop Bone-In Prime Rib Roast → American Wagyu Tomahawk Roast Known for its dramatic presentation and bold flavor, this tomahawk roast makes any celebration unforgettable. Shop American Wagyu Tomahawk Roast → Kurobuta Rack of Pork A show-stopping roast with tender, juicy pork and deep flavor. Beautifully marbled and perfect for festive gatherings. Shop Kurobuta Rack of Pork →

The Art of the Tablescape Pull out the garlands, light the candles, and bring back a word you only hear during the most festive times of year: tablescape. More than a centerpiece, it’s the art of setting the scene and the mood when you decorate the table.A well-designed tablescape does more than just look beautiful — it creates a sense of warmth and thoughtfulness for your guests. “A great tablescape makes guests feel special. They see the amount of effort and care you put into table design,” says Lindsey Elliott, Lead Designer at Linen + Loot, an event design and rental company. “The holidays are emotional. It’s about the feelings, the warmth, the families. Decorating is a way to enhance that.” Creating a beautiful holiday table isn’t about spending big; it’s about thoughtful choices. Combine meaningful details with smart design to craft a welcoming space that feels personal, memorable, and true to your style. “Use pieces you already own in unexpected ways,” says Lindsey. “Or rent décor for an affordable, sustainable way to get a different look.” To inspire your holiday gatherings, Linen + Loot designed three distinctive holiday tablescapes — each paired with a Snake River Farms American Wagyu centerpiece that transforms your dinner into an unforgettable experience.   Modern Tablescape: Clean & Layered A modern tablescape is sleek but warm, using layers, textures, and a limited color palette to create quiet impact. How to Create It: Play with height: Mix low greenery like garlands with medium accents (small trees, ornaments) and tall candlesticks for dimension. Stick to a palette: Choose 3 to 4 complementary colors — think black, green, and metallic — and repeat them for a cohesive, minimalistic effect. Mix and match: Alternate between two different plate settings or napkin colors to add subtle variety.   Perfect Pairing: Wagyu Tenderloin Roast A tablescape this refined deserves an equally elegant centerpiece. The Snake River Farms American Wagyu Tenderloin Roast is the ultimate showpiece for a modern table — sophisticated, tender, and designed to impress. Complete the look with this showstopping roast recipe: Tenderloin Roast with Brandy Peppercorn Sauce for a steakhouse-style presentation that complements clean lines and bold flavors. Shop Now: Explore Snake River Farms Roasts →   Traditional Tablescape: Warm & Classic This style blends timeless holiday charm — rich reds, natural greenery, and candlelight — with thoughtful personal touches. It’s perfect for creating a cozy, welcoming table that celebrates family, tradition, and the joy of gathering. How to Create It: Light & Life: Candles instantly transform the mood, while live greenery or flowers add texture, warmth, and natural beauty. Make It Personal: Small details make guests feel truly seen. Tie personalized name cards with ribbon and a holly sprig, or place a wrapped gift or holiday card at each setting for a delightful surprise. Reimagine Family Heirlooms: Vintage dishware, silver, or glassware from your own collection feels meaningful yet contemporary when styled in fresh ways. Showcase the Food: Use risers — Lindsey recommends repurposing acrylic computer stands — to lift dishes above centerpieces, freeing table space and creating visual interest. Comfort Counts: Cushioned seats encourage guests to relax and linger. Linen + Loot used Blush Creek’s Queen Louis chairs to combine comfort with classic elegance.   Perfect Pairing: Wagyu Bone-In Prime Rib Roast For a warm, classic table, nothing makes a statement like the Snake River Farms Wagyu Bone-In Prime Rib Roast. Rich, juicy, and visually stunning, it’s the ultimate centerpiece for holiday entertaining. Complete the look with this showstopping roast recipe: Bone-In Holiday Prime Rib Roast with Au Jus. Shop Now: Order Your Holiday Prime Rib → Western Tablescape: Cozy & Natural Rooted in the charm of home and the outdoors, this tablescape style feels authentic, relaxed, and personal. It’s ideal for gatherings that embrace natural textures, rustic accents, and meaningful details. How to Create It:  Work With What You Have: A deep blue wall or neutral backdrop sets the tone for a nontraditional color scheme. Incorporate repurposed items like library lamps or a plaid scarf as a table runner for character. Bring the Outdoors In: Add tree trimmings, pinecones, or antler sheds to infuse organic textures and soften the table. Layer Your Setting: Start with natural wood or woven chargers to anchor the table. Add leather napkin rings, personalized name cards, or textured linens for extra warmth. Add Meaning: Incorporate family heirlooms, hand-stitched napkins, or vintage glassware to create a sense of history and personal connection. Perfect Pairing: Wagyu Tomahawk Roast For a rustic and natural table, a dramatic centerpiece is key. The Snake River Farms American Wagyu Tomahawk Roast delivers impressive size, buttery tenderness, and a “wow” factor that anchors your tablescape. Complete the look with this showstopping roast recipe: American Wagyu Tomahawk Prime Rib Roast. Shop Now: Find Your Tomahawk Roast → Bring Your Holiday Tablescape to Life No matter your style — modern, traditional, or Western-inspired — the key to a memorable holiday gathering is a table that feels thoughtful, warm, and inviting. By combining meaningful décor choices with a showstopping centerpiece, you can create a holiday tablescape that delights your guests and elevates every moment around the table.With Snake River Farms American Wagyu roasts as your centerpiece, your table becomes more than just a meal — it’s an experience. From tenderloin to bone-in prime rib to a dramatic tomahawk, each roast offers exceptional flavor, elegance, and the wow factor your holiday deserves.Make this season unforgettable: shop our full collection of American Wagyu roasts and create a tablescape that your family and friends will remember for years to come.

Christmas Gifts for Grillers Stumped on what to get the griller in your life this Christmas? We’ve all been there. The BBQ enthusiast on your list already has a garage full of gadgets and an apron collection that could rival a restaurant. But finding something truly memorable and useful doesn’t have to be stressful.At Snake River Farms, we’ve curated a list of thoughtful, premium Christmas gifts for grillers that go beyond the usual tools and utensils. From unforgettable American Wagyu boxes to expert-approved accessories and stocking stuffers, these ideas will spark joy (and a few flames) for any BBQ lover. Why the Right Griller Gift Counts Selecting the perfect gift for a griller isn’t just about checking a name off your holiday list. It’s about celebrating their passion for flavor, fire, and the art of great cooking. The right gift can inspire new techniques, encourage creativity, and make every cookout more enjoyable. Whether they’re a weekend backyard chef or a full-fledged pitmaster, what you give should reflect their love for the craft.   Every Griller Is Unique Not all grillers are the same. Some are backyard beginners learning to master temperature zones, while others could win a competition with their brisket technique. The best Christmas gifts for grillers reflect that individuality and help them refine their skills or enjoy their craft even more. Consider what your griller loves most: Tools and gadgets for those who love precision and control Premium meats for those who believe flavor starts with quality Grilling accessories for those who enjoy the ritual of the process   Avoiding Generic Gifts Let’s face it. Most grillers already have a drawer full of novelty aprons and bargain-brand utensils. Generic gear often disappoints because it doesn’t perform or last. Instead, go for curated, high-quality gifts designed by and for people who truly understand BBQ. The right gift makes a statement that you recognize their passion and want to help them take it to the next level.   Why SRF Makes the Best Grilling Gift Every griller knows that great BBQ starts with great ingredients. That’s where Snake River Farms shines. Our meats are sourced from trusted ranches, raised with care, and crafted for exceptional quality and flavor. Each cut delivers an unforgettable experience that any griller will appreciate from the first sizzle to the final bite. Premium Meats and Seafood American Wagyu Beef: Known for exceptional marbling, tenderness, and deep flavor. It’s the ultimate upgrade for any grill session. Kurobuta Pork: Rich, juicy, and unbelievably tender. This heritage pork brings gourmet flavor to any backyard feast. USDA Choice and Prime Beef: Classic favorites that deliver reliable flavor and consistent results. Sustainably Caught Seafood: From buttery salmon to grill-ready shellfish, our seafood is perfect for surf and turf fans. Shop our full collection of American Wagyu and Kurobuta Pork, explore our USDA Choice and Prime Beef, and discover sustainably caught seafood to find the perfect gift for the griller in your life.     Gift Boxes for the Ultimate Experience If you want to make a lasting impression, our curated gift boxes are the way to go. Each box is filled with premium cuts and grilling favorites, carefully packaged to surprise and delight any BBQ enthusiast. Whether you’re gifting a first-time griller or a seasoned smoke master, there’s a box that fits their flavor style.   Tuffy Stone’s Backyard Grilling Box | $293 For the griller who already has it all, this curated box delivers something truly special. Created with Barbecue Hall of Famer Tuffy Stone, it features premium American Wagyu and Kurobuta pork cuts plus his signature Steak Night Prime Seasoning—a gift that brings championship-level flavor and expertise straight to the backyard. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or weekend cookouts, these cuts offer rich texture, bold flavor, and the quality Snake River Farms is known for. It’s a memorable Christmas gift for grillers who take pride in their craft and love sharing great food with family and friends. Box Includes: (1) American Wagyu Black Tri Tip (1) Kurobuta Pork Loin Roast (2) American Wagyu Black NY Strip Slices (1) American Wagyu Zabuton 12 oz (1) FREE Tuffy Stone Steak Night Prime Seasoning Shop Tuffy Stone's Backyard Grilling Box Griller's Choice Box | $311 Looking for a Christmas gift that brings the steakhouse home? The Griller’s Choice Box is packed with premium USDA Choice cuts, including NY Strips, Ribeyes, Bone-In Ribeye Filets, and a show-stopping Tomahawk. It’s the perfect gift for grillers who love bold, beefy flavor and the thrill of cooking top-quality cuts. Whether your recipient prefers searing, grilling, or slow-roasting, this collection delivers rich tenderness and unforgettable flavor with every bite. Ideal for holiday gatherings or special dinners, it’s a gift that turns any backyard cookout into a five-star steak night. Box Includes: (2) USDA Choice NY Strip 1" (2) USDA Choice Ribeye 1" (2) USDA Choice Bone-In Ribeye Filet (1) USDA Choice Tomahawk   Shop Griller’s Choice Box The Great Gift | $416 For the griller who deserves something extraordinary this holiday season, The Great Gift delivers five premium American Wagyu steaks that will impress any meat lover. This collection features a SRF Gold® Cowboy Steak, SRF Black® Ribeyes, and SRF Gold® New York Strips, combining the rich, buttery flavor of Wagyu with the bold taste of American beef. Whether your recipient is grilling outside or searing indoors in a cast iron skillet, these cuts offer unmatched tenderness, deep flavor, and that classic Snake River Farms quality. It’s a memorable Christmas gift for grillers that will elevate every holiday cookout and special meal. Box Includes: (1) SRF Gold® Cowboy Steak (2) SRF Black® Ribeye Steak 1" (2) SRF Gold® NY Steak 1"   Shop The Great Gift The Griller's Pack | $321 Take the guesswork out of grilling this holiday season with The Griller’s Pack. Packed with SRF Gold® Ribeyes, Filet Mignons, American Wagyu Hamburger Patties, and Hot Dogs, this box has something for every guest and every grill. It also includes our SRF Signature Steak Seasoning, making it easy to deliver rich, bold flavor every time. Whether your recipient is hosting a family gathering, tailgate, or backyard cookout, this collection covers all the bases. It’s a thoughtful and practical Christmas gift for grillers that brings premium cuts, variety, and classic Snake River Farms quality to every meal. Box Includes: (2) SRF Gold® Ribeye 1" (2) SRF Gold® Filet Mignon 6 oz. (1) American Wagyu Hot Dogs 1 lb. (2) American Wagyu Hamburger Patties (1) SRF Signature Steak Seasoning Shop The Griller’s Pack Stocking Stuffers Every Griller Will Love Sometimes the little things make the biggest impact. Stocking stuffers are perfect for rounding out a larger gift or adding thoughtful touches for any griller. These essentials combine practicality with fun, letting your BBQ enthusiast try something new or upgrade their favorite tools. Wagyu Beef Jerky & Sticks Combo Pack Give the gift of bold, snackable flavor this holiday season with our Wagyu Beef Jerky & Sticks Combo Pack. Crafted from premium American Wagyu, this duo pairs tender, savory jerky with smoky, flavorful beef sticks—perfect for grillers, snack lovers, or anyone who appreciates world-class beef in a convenient, ready-to-eat form. Each bag of jerky is made from whole-muscle cuts, lightly seasoned with tamari, pepper, garlic, onion, sea salt, and a touch of cane sugar. The accompanying smoked beef sticks are packed with rich, savory flavor and the satisfying snap every meat lover craves. Individually wrapped for on-the-go enjoyment, this combo is an ideal Christmas gift for grillers or anyone who loves premium beef anytime, anywhere. Shop Wagyu Beef Jerky & Sticks Combo Pack Salt & Seasonings Elevate every cookout this holiday season with our Salts & Seasonings, crafted to bring out the best in Snake River Farms beef and pork. From flavorful dry rubs to our Jacobsen kosher salt, each seasoning adds balanced, rich flavor that enhances every cut, making even a simple meal feel special. Perfect as a stocking stuffer or an add-on to any gift box, these chef-quality seasonings let grillers experiment, refine, and enjoy the art of seasoning like a pro. It’s a thoughtful Christmas gift for grillers that turns every steak, roast, or pork chop into a flavorful masterpiece. Shop Salt & Seasonings Thermapen® ONE Digital Thermometer Make sure every steak, chop, or roast is cooked to perfection this holiday season with the Thermapen® ONE Digital Thermometer. This professional-quality tool delivers temperature readings in one second or less, accurate within 0.5°F, so grillers can cook with confidence every time. Its auto-rotating digital display and bright backlight make it easy to read at any angle—even during after-dark cookouts. Built to last, the Thermapen ONE is waterproof, durable, and backed by a 5-year warranty. It’s a practical and thoughtful Christmas gift for grillers who value precision and consistency on the grill. Shop Thermapen ONE Smithey Mighty Spatula Upgrade your griller’s toolkit this holiday season with the Smithey Mighty Spatula. Crafted with a full-tang walnut handle and durable stainless steel blade, this heirloom-quality spatula is built to last and makes flipping, turning, and serving a breeze. With a wide 4.25” blade and extra-deep neck, it’s perfect for everything from smash burgers to pancakes and sheet cakes. The sharp, chiseled edges slip easily under delicate foods, making it a versatile and practical Christmas gift for grillers who value quality tools on and off the grill. Shop Smithey Mighty Spatula SRF Apparel Give the gift of style and grilling pride this holiday season with SRF Apparel. From soft tees to hats and aprons, our branded gear lets grillers show off their love for Snake River Farms both in and out of the backyard. With limited drops on select items, each piece is a special find that makes a thoughtful Christmas gift for grillers. Perfect for stocking stuffers or adding to a larger gift, SRF apparel combines quality, comfort, and a passion for great food. Shop SRF Apparel Why SRF Gifts Stand Out Choosing the right gift for a griller is about more than just flavor—it’s about creating an experience they’ll remember. Every Snake River Farms gift is crafted with care, from premium meats to thoughtful presentation. Our gifts are designed to impress, whether your recipient is just learning to grill or has been perfecting their craft for years. Premium American Wagyu and Kurobuta PorkOur American Wagyu delivers unmatched marbling and tenderness, while Kurobuta pork provides rich, juicy flavor. Both are perfect for creating show-stopping meals that any griller will appreciate. Curated for Flavor, Quality, and PresentationEach gift is thoughtfully selected and packaged to ensure a memorable unboxing experience. From the first glance to the last bite, every detail is designed to impress. Perfect for Any Skill Level or BBQ OccasionWhether your griller is a backyard beginner or a seasoned pitmaster, our gifts elevate their grilling experience. They’re perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just a weekend cookout. Explore all Snake River Farms Holiday Guide

What is an Heirloom Turkey? On Thanksgiving Day, nothing signals the feast ahead like the rich aroma of a turkey roasting in the kitchen. An heirloom turkey elevates that experience with deeper flavor, tender meat and juiciness you won’t find in most store-bought birds.Unlike conventional breeds raised for efficiency, these turkeys are raised humanely and slowly to develop naturally reflecting generations of careful farming. Their flavor and tenderness are superior to regular turkeys, similar to the way a premium Wagyu steak outshines one from the grocery store.We’re proud to offer Organic American Heirloom Whole Turkeys from Diestel Family Ranch. These rare birds are thoughtfully raised, naturally flavorful, and ready to take center stage at your holiday table. Order Your Organic American Heirloom Turkey Today →   Heirloom vs. Heritage Turkey: What’s the Difference? You may have seen the terms “heirloom” and “heritage” used to describe turkeys and wondered what sets them apart. While the words are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some key differences to understand.   Heirloom Turkey Heirloom turkeys are rare breeds that have been carefully maintained over generations. These birds are bred with flavor and quality in mind rather than speed of growth or high production. The result is a bird that develops slowly, producing tender, juicy meat that stands out from conventional turkeys.   Heritage Turkey Heritage turkeys generally refer to birds that come from traditional lineage and are raised naturally. These turkeys follow similar breeding and raising practices to heirloom birds, but the term emphasizes the preservation of classic turkey traits and natural farming methods. Our Organic American Heirloom Turkey comes from historic breeds including Auburn, Black, and American Bronze. These breeds have been around for hundreds of years and contribute to the exceptional flavor and texture of this single, thoughtfully raised turkey. Did You Know?Heirloom turkeys produce meat that is richer, more tender and more flavorful than conventional birds. Their slow growth and natural diet give them a depth of taste you’ll notice with every bite.   What Makes This Turkey So Exceptional? Our Organic American Heirloom Turkey stands out for its flavor, appearance, and the care taken in raising it. Flavor Profile: The meat is tender, juicy, and rich, delivering a depth of taste that makes every bite memorable. Compared to conventional turkeys, the flavor is more pronounced and satisfying, perfect for a special holiday meal. Visual Authenticity: You may notice bronze and black feathers occasionally leave slight marks on the skin. This is completely natural and a sign of a turkey raised with integrity, not altered with artificial processing. Care and Quality: These turkeys grow slowly and are raised naturally, with plenty of outdoor access and a nutrient-dense diet. Every bird is traceable, so you know exactly where it comes from and how it was raised. This commitment to quality ensures a flavorful and ethically raised turkey on your Thanksgiving table. This Thanksgiving, treat your family to a turkey that stands apart. Our Organic American Heirloom Whole Turkey from Diestel Family Ranch is thoughtfully raised, full of flavor, and ready to be the centerpiece of your holiday table. Order Your Organic American Heirloom Turkey Today →   Why You’ll Want an Heirloom Turkey This Thanksgiving Imagine the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving table: a golden, perfectly roasted turkey that fills the room with a savory aroma. With our Organic American Heirloom Turkey, you’re not just serving a bird, you’re serving a piece of history and flavor that is unlike anything you’ve experienced with conventional turkeys. These birds are rare and exceptionally hard to come by. Each turkey is thoughtfully raised to ensure a superior experience from the first slice to the last bite. Here’s why our heirloom turkey stands out: Perfect Size: Available only in 14 to 16 pounds, ideal for a family gathering. Prepare Your Way: Each turkey ships frozen and unbrined, giving you complete control over seasoning and preparation. Pure and Natural: Free from artificial additives or fillers. Exceptional Flavor: Tender, juicy and rich, delivering a meal you will be proud to serve. Traceable Quality: Raised with care and fully traceable to the farm, so you know exactly where your turkey comes from. Bring home an heirloom turkey this Thanksgiving and create a meal that is as memorable as it is delicious. Order Your Organic American Heirloom Turkey Today →   Why We Partner with Diestel Family Ranch At Snake River Farms, we hold our partnerships to the highest standards. We only work with partners whose values match our commitment to quality, transparency, and ethical practices. That is why we are proud to partner with Diestel Family Ranch. You can learn more about our partnerships on our Stories + Partners page. Diestel Family Ranch is family-owned and operated, with a legacy dating back over 70 years. Their approach to turkey farming reflects generations of care and expertise. Here's what sets their regenerative practices apart: Regenerative Farming: Turkeys graze on rotational plots of land treated with nutrient-rich compost and allowed rest periods of 2 to 8 months, enhancing soil health and biodiversity. Nutrient-Dense Diet: Birds are fed an organic, vegetarian diet that supports slow growth and rich flavor. Global Animal Partnership Step-Rated: Commitment to animal welfare verified through internationally recognized standards. USDA Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified: Assurance that the birds are free from synthetic additives and genetically modified ingredients. Partnering with Diestel allows us to provide you with an heirloom turkey that is ethically raised, traceable, and consistently exceptional in flavor and quality.   Bring Home an Organic American Heirloom Turkey Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and our Organic American Heirloom Turkey is ready to be the centerpiece of your holiday table. These rare, flavorful birds are only available in limited quantities, so we encourage you to order early to ensure a memorable feast. At Snake River Farms, we are selective about the farms we partner with. We only work with producers whose standards reflect the same care and quality we demand for our beef and pork. With Diestel Family Ranch, you can enjoy a turkey that is ethically raised, fully traceable, and exceptional in flavor. Make this Thanksgiving unforgettable. Order Your Organic American Heirloom Turkey Today →  

Thanksgiving Steak: The Ultimate Holiday Dinner Guide Thanksgiving menus often revolve around turkey, ham, or a classic beef roast. But this year, we invite you to celebrate something different — a true Steaksgiving.Steak is indulgent, versatile, and perfectly suited for the holiday table. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic centerpiece, an elegant secondary entrée, or simply an option for guests who prefer beef, steak delivers. At Snake River Farms, we believe a Thanksgiving steak creates a holiday spread that feels elevated, exciting, and memorable.In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best cuts for a steak Thanksgiving dinner, expert cooking methods, ideal temperatures, festive side pairings, and why choosing the right grade of beef for Thanksgiving makes all the difference. Why Steak Belongs on the Thanksgiving Table Turkey, ham, and prime rib are the “big three” proteins of the holiday season. But when you want to surprise your guests with something that feels both familiar and new, steak is the answer. Serving steak on Thanksgiving isn’t about breaking tradition — it’s about elevating it. Steak works beautifully as: A show-stopping centerpiece in place of the roast A second entrée that complements turkey or ham An option for guests who simply love beef over poultry No one feels left out, and your menu becomes more flexible for gatherings of all sizes. Pro Tip: When planning your holiday table, consider serving a mix of cuts. Offer a smaller cut like Filet Mignon for elegant plated servings, and a larger cut like Ribeye or Tomahawk as a dramatic centerpiece that can serve multiple guests. This makes your steak Thanksgiving dinner both versatile and impressive.   The Best Steak Cuts for Thanksgiving Dinner Choosing the right cut of beef sets the tone for your holiday meal. Each steak offers its own character, from tender and buttery to rich and dramatic. Here are our top picks for a Steaksgiving. Filet Mignon Filet Mignon is the ultimate choice for elegance. Its buttery texture and tenderness make it perfect for guests who appreciate a refined steak experience. Flavor and Texture: Exceptionally tender with a mild, delicate flavor Serving Style: Works well as a plated entrée or a smaller centerpiece How-To Guides: How to Cook a Filet Mignon Recipe Inspiration: Filet Mignon with Tallow-Seared Mushrooms and Onions Shop the Cut: Wagyu Filet Mignon   Ribeye  For a dramatic centerpiece, Ribeye or Tomahawk delivers bold flavor and impressive presentation. Rich marbling ensures juicy, tender meat that stands out on the holiday table. Flavor: Juicy and full-bodied with exceptional marbling Presentation: The Tomahawk’s long bone adds a striking visual centerpieceBest Cooking Methods: Reverse sear or steak house method for even cooking and a perfect crust How-To Guides: How to Cook a Ribeye Steak | How to Cook a Cast Iron Ribeye Recipe Inspiration: Coffee-Crusted Tomahawk with Charred Scallion Chimichurri Shop the Cut: Snake River Farms American Wagyu Ribeye   Porterhouse The Porterhouse combines two classic cuts in one: tenderloin and strip. It offers variety in flavor and texture, making it ideal for sharing. Flavor and Size: Rich flavor and tenderness that satisfy a crowd Presentation: Perfect for carving tableside and serving family-style Best Cooking Methods: Reverse sear or steakhouse method to cook both sides evenly How-To Guides: How to Cook a Porterhouse Steak | Porterhouse vs Ribeye Recipe Inspiration: Porterhouse Surf and Turf with Garlic Lemon Caper Sauce | Steak Diane with Lobster Sauce Shop the Cut: Snake River Farms Porterhouse Steaks   New York Strip The New York Strip is a versatile choice that pairs well with a variety of sides or can stand on its own as a second entrée. Its bold flavor and firm texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Flavor and Texture: Bold, beefy flavor with a satisfying chew Best Cooking Methods: Grilling, pan-searing, sous vide, or reverse sear for even doneness and a perfect crust Recipe Inspiration: Pan-Seared NY Strip with Red Wine Pan Sauce | Bone-In NY Strip with Wild Mushroom Cream Steak Sauce How-To Guides: The King of Steaks: New York vs Ribeye Shop the Cut: Snake River Farms New York Strip Steaks   Pro Tip: Plan your holiday table around a mix of cuts. A smaller cut like Filet Mignon offers elegance for individual servings, while a larger cut like Ribeye or Tomahawk creates a dramatic centerpiece. Porterhouse or New York Strip adds versatility for larger gatherings or family-style meals. Not sure which steak to choose for your Steaksgiving? Discover How to Pick a Good Steak to select the perfect cut for your holiday table.   3 Expert Cooking Methods for Thanksgiving Steak Cooking a steak for your holiday table can be faster and more controlled than roasting a traditional holiday roast. With the right methods, your Thanksgiving steak can be cooked to perfection, whether you are preparing a dramatic Ribeye, elegant Filet Mignon, or a shareable Porterhouse. Reverse Sear The reverse sear is ideal for thick cuts, giving you an even cook from edge to center and a perfectly browned crust. This method works especially well for Ribeye, Tomahawk, and Porterhouse steaks. Start by cooking your steak slowly at a lower temperature and finish with a high-heat sear for that signature steakhouse crust. Watch how to master the reverse sear: How to Cook a Steak: The Reverse Sear Method Direct Grilling For a classic char and quick cooking, direct grilling is your go-to method. High heat sears the exterior while keeping the interior juicy and flavorful. This method is excellent for New York Strip or smaller cuts like Filet Mignon that benefit from a quick, high-heat approach. See this method in action: Cook a Steak with Direct Grilling Method Steak House Method  The steakhouse method combines a pan-sear with an oven finish for restaurant-quality results at home. It’s a reliable technique for all large cuts, ensuring even cooking and a rich, flavorful crust. This method is particularly useful for cuts you want to serve as a centerpiece for your steak Thanksgiving dinner.Learn the steakhouse method: The Steakhouse Method Pro Tip: You might have heard of the ‘333 rule’ for steak — three minutes on each side, three times. It can work for a quick pan sear, but for a Thanksgiving steak worthy of the holiday table, we recommend using proven methods like reverse sear or the steakhouse method. Pair these techniques with high-quality American Wagyu or premium beef for unforgettable results. Shop our American Wagyu steaks and try these methods for a holiday meal your guests will remember.   Perfect Steak Temps for Your Holiday Dinner Getting the temperature right is key to a memorable steak Thanksgiving dinner. Whether you are serving a tender Filet Mignon or a hearty Ribeye, knowing the target internal temperature ensures each cut is cooked perfectly. Remember, the temperature listed is when the steak should be removed from the heat. The meat will continue to cook slightly during the resting period, giving you consistent results every time. Preference  Description  Internal Temp.  Rare Red, cool center  110°F Medium Rare Red, warm center  120°F Medium  Pink throughout  130°F Medium Well  Primarily grey, sliver of pink  140°F   Pro Tip: Pull your steaks a few degrees before your target temperature and let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This carryover cooking allows the steak to reach the perfect doneness while keeping it juicy and flavorful.  Seasoning and Temperature Even the finest cut of beef benefits from proper seasoning and careful attention to doneness. Preparing your steak with the right seasoning and cooking it to the ideal temperature ensures your holiday meal is unforgettable. Start with seasoning: Before cooking, the right seasoning sets the foundation for flavor. Watch this short guide to learn how to season your steak perfectly: Master the perfect temperature: Knowing when your steak reaches the ideal doneness is crucial. This video walks you through internal temperatures and tips for checking doneness so every cut comes out just right:    Building a Complete Holiday Menu with Steak A steak-centered Thanksgiving menu feels festive and unexpected while still pairing beautifully with traditional holiday dishes. From appetizers to sides, sauces, and beverages, every element can highlight the rich flavors of American Wagyu beef.   Appetizers to Start the Celebration Small bites are the perfect way to kick things off without overshadowing the main course. These appetizers balance richness with freshness, setting the tone for a steak-centered holiday feast. Flank Steak Crostini with Blue Cheese Sauce – savory, tangy, and elegant. Charcuterie Board – a mix of cheeses, cured meats, and seasonal fruits for a shareable starter. Garlic Butter Steak Bites – quick to make and always a crowd favorite.   Pairing Steak with Traditional Thanksgiving Sides Classic sides can take on new life when paired with steak. Bold flavors and rich textures complement Wagyu beautifully: Apple Brined Bacon & Brussels – smoky, salty, and bright. Smashed Tallow Taters with Spicy Aioli – a hearty, flavorful take on holiday potatoes. Wagyu Ground Beef Mac & Cheese – indulgent comfort food that feels right at home on a Thanksgiving table. Bacon Bratwurst Cornbread Stuffing – a savory twist on a holiday classic.   Serving Suggestions Steak doesn’t have to replace the turkey—it can complement it. Serving steak as a second centerpiece alongside turkey or ham offers your guests more to enjoy.Pair with festive sauces for a finishing touch: Red Wine Reduction Herb Butter Steakhouse Au Jus   Beverage Pairings The right drink brings balance and elevates the meal: Bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec accentuate the marbling and richness of Wagyu. Festive sparkling wines provide a refreshing contrast to hearty holiday flavors. Pro Tip: Appetizers set the tone for your Steaksgiving. Choose small bites that hint at the rich flavors of your main course without filling up your guests too early. Get more holiday menu inspiration in How to Create a Memorable Thanksgiving Menu.   Beef for Thanksgiving: Why Quality Matters The quality of the beef you serve is just as important as how you cook it. For a steak-centered Thanksgiving, choosing the right grade ensures tenderness, flavor, and a show-stopping presentation at the table. Understanding Beef Grading Not all beef is created equal. Grading provides a quick way to understand what you’re buying and how it will perform at the table: USDA Choice – good quality with moderate marbling, a step up from standard supermarket beef. USDA Prime – higher marbling for richer flavor and tenderness, often served in fine restaurants. American Wagyu – combines traditional Wagyu genetics with American cattle, delivering exceptional marbling, buttery texture, and unmatched flavor. Why it matters: Marbling (the fine streaks of fat within the muscle) acts as built-in seasoning. It melts during cooking, enhancing tenderness, boosting flavor, and creating a visually stunning centerpiece. Learn More: Deep Dive into SRF Grades | What is Beef Grading and Why is it Important   Make This the Year of Thanksgiving Steak Turn your holiday meal into an unforgettable experience with a beautifully cooked Snake River Farms steak. Mix and match cuts—filet mignon for elegance, ribeye for richness, or a tomahawk for a dramatic centerpiece. Make this year a Steaksgiving to remember—shop our wagyu steaks and elevate your holiday table.

The Best Ham for Thanksgiving Turkey may be traditional, but we’ve found that nothing elevates a Thanksgiving table quite like a perfectly prepared Kurobuta ham. With its rich flavor, tender texture, and impressive presentation, ham has a way of turning a holiday meal into something extraordinary.At Snake River Farms, we believe the best ham for Thanksgiving should do more than feed your guests. It should create an experience they’ll remember. That’s why we turn to Kurobuta, a heritage breed ham known for its exceptional marbling, natural sweetness, and deep flavor.In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose the right ham for your gathering, why it deserves a place alongside turkey, and share our favorite brown sugar glaze recipe to make your holiday centerpiece shine.Ready to find your centerpiece? Shop Snake River Farms Kurobuta Ham and bring home the best ham for Thanksgiving.   Why Ham Deserves a Spot on Your Thanksgiving Table We love turkey, but the best ham for Thanksgiving brings something different to the table. Kurobuta ham pairs beautifully with classic sides and can even share the spotlight with turkey or prime rib. For many families, it has become the star of the meal all on its own.Here’s why we think ham belongs on every holiday menu: It complements or stands alone. A glazed ham sits perfectly alongside roasted turkey or beef. Or let it shine solo as your main centerpiece. Sweet and smoky flavor appeals to a crowd. Kurobuta ham’s rich marbling and hardwood smoking deliver a depth of flavor that guests look forward to year after year. The leftovers are legendary. Holiday ham makes incredible next-day meals. From hearty sandwiches to soups and breakfast dishes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. See our favorite leftover ham ideas. Looking for inspiration on what to do with your leftover ham? Watch this quick video for ideas you can put to use the very next day:  How Much Ham Do You Need Per Guest? One of the most common questions we hear is how much ham to order for Thanksgiving. The right amount depends on the size of your gathering, whether you’re serving ham as the main course or alongside turkey, and how much you want left over for the days ahead.As a general rule, we recommend planning for 8 to 12 ounces of ham per person. This ensures generous holiday portions without running short. If your guests love hearty servings or you want to guarantee plenty of leftovers for sandwiches, casseroles, or breakfast hash, plan toward the higher end.Here’s a quick breakdown to make it easier: Ham Size Avg. Weight Servings Cook Time Internal Temp. Half Boneless 3.5 lbs. 5 – 9 1.25 to 2 hrs. 140°F Whole Boneless 7 lbs. 10 – 12 1.5 to 2.5 hrs. 140°F Half Bone-In, Small 6 lbs. 8 – 10 1.5 to 2 hrs. 140°F Half Bone-In, Large 8 lbs. 10 – 12 1.75 to 2.5 hrs. 140°F Whole Bone-In, Large 16 lbs. 18 – 22 3.5 to 4 hrs. 140°F   Pro Tip: Planning ahead makes all the difference. The best ham for Thanksgiving is the one that not only looks beautiful on your table but also feeds your crowd with ease.   Choosing the Right Ham for Your Table When it comes to finding the best ham for Thanksgiving, quality matters just as much as size. The right ham should be flavorful, easy to prepare, and impressive enough to stand as your holiday centerpiece. At Snake River Farms, we make it simple by offering Kurobuta hams in a variety of sizes and styles to fit every table. Shop our full selection of Kurobuta hams and choose the perfect one for your celebration.   Features to Look for in a Holiday Ham Heritage breed quality. Kurobuta, our Berkshire pork, is renowned worldwide for its rich, signature flavor. High marbling and tenderness. The natural intramuscular fat creates a juicy, tender bite every time. Classic holiday appearance. Each ham is traditionally crafted, pre-smoked over real hardwood, and ready for your favorite glaze recipe to finish with that iconic glossy look. Learn How to Cook Your Ham to Perfection Choosing the right ham is just the first step. The real magic happens when it’s prepared the right way. From thawing and scoring to glazing and carving, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions. Explore our Guide: How to Cook a Ham to ensure your Thanksgiving centerpiece comes out tender, juicy, and full of flavor.   Which Ham Should You Order? The right ham depends on the size of your gathering or if you’re just cooking for yourself. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best ham for Thanksgiving: Whole Bone-In Ham Best for big holiday gatherings. Feeds a crowd and makes an impressive centerpiece. Shop Whole Bone-In Ham → Bone-In Half Ham Ideal for medium-sized gatherings. Still offers the classic bone-in presentation. Shop Bone-In Half Ham → Whole Boneless Ham Convenient and easy to carve. Perfect for buffets or when you want ready-to-slice portions. Shop Whole Boneless Ham → Half Boneless Ham Ideal for smaller households or individuals. Easy to carve, no waste, and perfect for leftovers. Shop Half Boneless Ham → Brown Sugar Glaze: A Perfect Recipe for Thanksgiving The best ham for Thanksgiving deserves a glaze that enhances its natural flavor without overpowering it. Our go-to is a simple brown sugar glaze that adds a glossy finish and a touch of caramel sweetness. Quick Brown Sugar Glaze 1 cup brown sugar 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Pinch of ground cloves (optional)   Stir ingredients together until smooth, then brush over your warmed ham during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. The result is a sweet, sticky crust that pairs beautifully with the smoky richness of Kurobuta ham.Want to switch it up? Try these variations: Add maple syrup for extra depth Stir in a little orange zest for brightness Mix in honey or ginger for a spiced twist For more inspiration, explore our full collection of ham glaze recipes. Want to see a stunning holiday glaze in action? Watch our Glazed Ham Recipe featuring a Honey Chai Glaze with a whipped mascarpone twist. This simple but unforgettable recipe shows how the right glaze takes your Thanksgiving ham from delicious to extraordinary. Or, check out the full written recipe here for exact ingredients and directions. What to Serve with Your Holiday Ham A holiday ham is delicious on its own, but the sides and pairings you choose can elevate the entire meal. The best ham for Thanksgiving shines brightest when served with dishes that balance its sweet and smoky flavor profile.Classic side ideas for your Kurobuta ham: Creamy mashed potatoes with a touch of butter and chives Savory stuffing made with fresh herbs and toasted bread Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes Cranberry sauce for a bright, tart contrast Pairing tips: Choose sides that balance sweet and savory. Ham has a natural richness that pairs well with tangy, acidic, or herb-driven flavors. Include something fresh or green, like a crisp salad or roasted greens, to keep the meal balanced. Optional drink pairings: A light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the ham’s smoky-sweet notes without overpowering it. Sparkling cider (hard or non-alcoholic) adds a festive touch and a refreshing balance to each bite. With the right pairings, your Thanksgiving ham becomes more than just a main dish,  it becomes the centerpiece of a truly memorable meal. Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Ham What type of ham is best for Thanksgiving? A smoked, fully cooked ham is easiest for holiday prep and delivers big flavor. Bone-in or boneless both work, but Kurobuta ham offers richer marbling and tenderness that make it stand out on the table. Bone-in or boneless, which is better? Bone-in hams bring a classic look and deeper flavor, plus you can use the leftover bone for soups or beans. Boneless hams are easier to carve and perfect for sandwiches or buffets. Choose based on how you plan to serve. How many guests will a 20 lb ham feed? A 20 lb ham will serve about 30 to 35 guests. Plan on 8 to 12 ounces per person for bone-in ham, or 5 to 8 ounces per person for boneless. For smaller gatherings, check our Ham Size Guide to match the right cut to your guest list. Should ham come to room temperature before serving? Let your ham sit at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before reheating. This helps it warm evenly without drying out. Always use a meat thermometer and heat to an internal temperature of 140°F before serving. Why Kurobuta Ham is the Ultimate Thanksgiving Choice When it comes to creating a Thanksgiving centerpiece that everyone remembers, our Kurobuta ham delivers every time. Rich flavor from heritage breed porkWe use 100% Berkshire (Kurobuta) pork, known worldwide for its deep, complex flavor. Tender, juicy texture with beautiful marblingThe natural marbling ensures every slice stays moist, tender, and delicious from the first bite to the last. Reliable, premium quality for holiday entertainingFully cooked, hardwood-smoked, and ready to glaze, our hams make it easy to serve a show-stopping main course without the stress. Make this holiday unforgettable: shop Kurobuta hams now.     Elevate Your Thanksgiving This Year A Kurobuta ham is more than a main course—it’s a centerpiece that brings people together. With its rich flavor, tender texture, and effortless preparation, it’s the perfect way to make your holiday table unforgettable.Planning ahead is key. Our hams ship frozen and keep beautifully in your freezer for up to six months, so you can order early and check one big thing off your holiday list.Order your Thanksgiving centerpiece today: Shop Kurobuta Ham. Explore More Holiday Inspiration Planning your Thanksgiving table is just the beginning. Take a look at our other holiday entertaining guides and ideas: Alternatives to Turkey for the Holidays The Complete Holiday Meal: Ham Master the Moment – Make the Most of the Holidays How to Prepare the Perfect Easter Ham Dinner Holiday Entertaining Guide – The Easiest Holiday Party Ever Make the Perfect Charcuterie Board The Perfect Christmas Ham

Best Cooking Temp for Juicy, Flavorful Ham  Few things make a gathering feel special like carving into a beautiful ham, perfectly heated and ready to serve. At Snake River Farms, our Kurobuta hams are fully cooked, which means the secret to success is simple, bring your ham to the right finishing temp for tender, juicy results every time.In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key ham temps for cooking and glazing, plus thawing tips and reheating guidelines so you can serve your ham with confidence. Shop Snake River Farms Kurobuta Hams.   Quick Ham Temp Cheat Sheet Thawing: Fridge method (1–4 days depending on size) Cooking Temp: 140°F internal Add Glaze: ~120°F internal Reheat Leftovers: 165°F internal Why Thawing Matters Before Cooking Thawing is about even heating, not hitting a specific temperature. When your ham is fully thawed, it warms through evenly without drying out. Best method: Thaw slowly in the refrigerator. Quick option: Submerge the sealed ham in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Plan ahead: Large hams can take several days to thaw completely.   Thawing Time by Ham Size: Ham Size Avg. Weight Time to Defrost Half Boneless 3.5 lbs. 1 to 2 Days Whole Boneless 7 lbs. 2 to 3 Days Half Bone-In, Small 6 lbs. 2 to 3 Days Half Bone-In, Large 8 lbs. 2 to 3 Days Whole Bone-In 16 lbs. 3 to 4 Days Quick Thaw Method Sometimes plans change, and you need your ham thawed faster. We recommend using a cool water bath only in emergencies. For detailed instructions on thawing large cuts and hams safely, including timing tips for different sizes, check out our full guide: How to Thaw Large Cuts, Roasts, and Hams.Pro Tip: Always allow extra time, better to be thawed early than still frozen on serving day. Watch our step-by-step video on properly thawing and handling large hams for best results: Thawing SRF Roasts and Hams Tips & Tricks. Target Internal Temperature for Ham The magic number? An internal temperature of 140°F.Because our Kurobuta hams come fully cooked, your goal isn’t to cook them again but to reheat gently so every slice stays moist, tender, and flavorful. Use a reliable meat thermometer for accuracy. Check the thickest part of the ham, avoiding the bone for the most accurate reading. Remove the ham from the oven just before 140°F—the temperature will rise slightly as it rests.   Get the Gear: Shop our Superfast Thermometer. Ham Size Cook Time Internal Temp. Half Boneless 1.25 to 2 hrs. 140°F Whole Boneless 1.5 to 2.5 hrs. 140°F Half Bone-In, Small 1.5 to 2 hrs. 140°F Half Bone-In, Large 1.75 to 2.5 hrs. 140°F Whole Bone-In, Large 3.5 to 4 hrs. 140°F   For a visual guide and step-by-step tips, watch our video on how to prepare a Snake River Farms Kurobuta ham. The Best Ham Temperature for Adding Glaze  For a caramelized, glossy finish, the sweet spot is glazing your ham when it reaches an internal temperature of about 120°F. This allows enough time for the glaze to set without overcooking the meat. Apply glaze during the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking. This timing lets the sugars bubble and set without burning. For extra layers of flavor, you can reapply glaze once or twice as the ham finishes cooking. Glaze Ideas to Try: Classic Brown Sugar & Mustad Glaze Maple bourbon Glaze Honey Chai Spiced Glaze Orange and Bourbon Glaze     Target Internal Temperature for Ham Leftovers We recommend heating our fully cooked Kurobuta hams to an internal temperature of 140°F before serving. That’s your target for the main event. When it comes to leftovers, the rules shift a little: Reheat slices or chunks to 165°F internal to ensure food safety. Use a gentle oven reheat or cover with foil to prevent drying. Explore: More leftover ham recipes.   Final Tips for Perfect Ham  When it comes to serving the perfect ham, a few small steps make all the difference. Thaw completely before cooking for even, consistent heating. Stop at 140°F internal temp for juicy, tender results. Add glaze during the last 20 to 30 minutes so it caramelizes beautifully without burning. Always use a fast, accurate thermometer for precision.   For step-by-step instructions on preparation, scoring, glazing, and reheating, check out our Guide: How to Cook a Ham to ensure your holiday ham is flawless.With the right ham temp, you’ll serve a centerpiece that’s worthy of every holiday table — flavorful, perfectly heated, and ready for seconds. Perfect for Easter brunch, Christmas dinner, or a cozy Sunday supper any time of year. Shop Snake River Farms Kurobuta Hams.  

Corporate Gifting Made Easy with Snake River Farms Premium food gifts for clients, colleagues, and teams. If you’ve ever sent corporate gifts, you know the drill—tracking down mailing addresses, managing spreadsheets, coordinating delivery dates, and hoping everything arrives on time. It’s a lot of effort for a gift that might not even stand out. That’s exactly why we created our e-gifting platform. With just a few clicks, you can send premium gifts—like our American Wagyu beef boxes or Kurobuta pork collections—without needing a single address upfront. Recipients get a digital notification, choose when and where they want their gift delivered, and even have the option to swap for something they’ll enjoy more. It’s fast, flexible, and makes a lasting impression. And if you do need help—whether you're sending to one person or planning a program for a thousand—I'm here to make it easy. I’m the corporate gifting specialist at Snake River Farms, and I’ll work with you one-on-one to create a gifting experience that feels personal, seamless, and truly exceptional.   Give the Gift of SRF   Why Premium Meat Makes the Perfect Corporate Food Gift There’s no shortage of corporate gift boxes out there—but very few are truly memorable. I’ve helped send everything from last-minute digital Wagyu gifts to large-scale orders for client appreciation, and the feedback is always the same: “This was the best gift we’ve ever received.” At Snake River Farms, we’re known for delivering an experience—not just a product. Our gifts are rooted in quality, craftsmanship, and care, and that comes through the moment your recipient opens the box (or receives their digital gift notification). Here’s what makes our offerings stand out: American Wagyu Beef: The most marbled American Wagyu beef in the world, raised right here on American ranches. It's rich, buttery, and makes an impression from the very first bite. Kurobuta Pork: Often called “the Wagyu of pork,” this heritage breed pork delivers exceptional flavor and tenderness most people haven’t experienced before. Sustainable Ranching: Our ethical, responsible ranching practices align with the values many companies and clients prioritize today. Uncompromising Quality: From breed selection to final packaging, we maintain the highest standards at every step to ensure a consistently premium experience. If you want your gift to feel high-end, thoughtful, and truly different from the usual snacks or branded swag, premium meat delivers every time.   Give the Gift of SRF     Corporate Food Gift Options Whether you want to wow a VIP client with a curated Wagyu selection or send 500 digital gift invitations in minutes, we have options to fit your style, budget, and timeline. Every approach is designed to deliver the same premium quality—just in the way that works best for you and your recipients. Curated Gift Boxes ($100+ minimum per recipient) Tailored product selection based on budget and preferences Personalized gift messages (up to 250 characters) Volume discounts based on quantity ordered Custom Gifting Options (For Large-Scale Programs: 500+ Recipients) Create a gift box tailored to your preferences—whether you want to select specific steaks, adjust the price point, or plan a large order exceeding 500 recipients. Our corporate gifting specialist is ready to assist you every step of the way. Reach out by email or text, and a member of our team will respond within 48 business hours: Email: giftsrf@snakeriverfarms.com Text: ‘GIFT’ to (208) 600-1779   Two Ways to Send Corporate Food Gifts Option 1: Ship Direct to Recipients Traditional Corporate Shipping Enter individual addresses or upload recipient list (up to 1000 recipients) Include printed gift message in each package (up to 250 characters) Ship immediately or schedule delivery for later Track all gifts in one centralized dashboard Perfect when you have current shipping addresses and want traditional gift delivery   Option 2: Send as E-Gifts Digital Gift Delivery Platform Shipping addresses collected from recipients via email, text, or secure link Customizable digital gift message and virtual unwrapping experience Recipients can swap gifts for similarly priced items from SRF catalog Send instantly or schedule delivery timing Ideal for last-minute gifts or when you don't have current addresses   Option 3: E-Gift Cards Immediate delivery via email or select a date Flexible denominations starting at $50 Perfect for last-minute corporate appreciation   Give the Gift of SRF Send an SRF E-Gift Card   From Click to Delivery: Simple Corporate Gifting We’ve designed our process to be straightforward and stress-free, whether you’re sending five gifts or five hundred. From defining your goals to selecting the perfect products and scheduling delivery, every step is built to save you time while making a lasting impression on your recipients. Step 1: Define Your Gifting Goals Decide on recipient count and budget parameters Choose between curated gift boxes or individually selected items Set your delivery timeline and note any special requirements   Step 2: Product Selection & Customization Explore our premium American Wagyu and Kurobuta collections Add a personalized gift message for each recipient (up to 250 characters) Review volume discount eligibility and confirm final pricing   Step 3: Choose Your Delivery Method Option A: Direct Shipping Upload recipient addresses (up to 1,000) for immediate processing Include printed gift messages for each shipment Schedule delivery dates or ship right away Track all shipments through a centralized dashboard   Option B: E-Gift Delivery Send digital gift notifications via email, text, or a shareable link Recipients enter their own shipping details when ready Allow gift swapping for items of equal value Automated tracking keeps you informed at every step Not Just for Corporations: Premium Gifts for Every Occasion Personal & Family Occasions Holiday Celebrations: Premium gifts for family gatherings and traditions Special Milestones: Birthdays, anniversaries, and life achievements Host Appreciation: Thank-you gifts for dinner parties and events Wedding & Baby Celebrations: Memorable gifts for life's biggest moments Sympathy & Support: Thoughtful meals during difficult times Housewarming Gifts: Premium provisions for new homes Professional & Executive Gifts Boss Appreciation: Thoughtful gifts for supervisors and leadership Colleague Celebrations: Promotions, job changes, and career milestones Professional Thank-Yous: Mentors, advisors, and industry connections Networking Gifts: Building relationships at conferences and events Client Entertainment: Dinner party provisions for business entertaining at home Client Relationship Building New Client Welcome: Premium first impression gifts Contract Celebrations: Milestone achievement recognition Holiday Appreciation: Year-end gratitude expressions Referral Thanks: High-value partnership acknowledgments Employee Recognition Programs Performance Rewards: Individual achievement celebrations Team Milestones: Department goal completions Service Anniversaries: Long-term loyalty appreciation Retirement Honors: Career celebration gifts Business Development Opportunities Trade Show Follow-ups: Memorable post-event outreach Proposal Submissions: Stand-out presentation accompaniments Partnership Launches: New relationship foundations Vendor Appreciation: Supply chain relationship maintenance   Corporate Gifting Program Benefits & Support We’re proud to be a trusted choice for corporate gifting — but our American Wagyu and Kurobuta pork make personal moments just as memorable. From milestones to meaningful thank-yous, I’ll help you choose gifts that feel personal, purposeful, and unforgettable. White-Glove Service Features Dedicated corporate gifting specialists 48-hour response time guarantee Multi-address shipping coordination Custom packaging and branding options   Program Requirements & Discounts $100 minimum value per gift box Volume discounts available based on quantity Enterprise pricing for 500+ recipient programs Dedicated account management for recurring orders   Quality Assurance Promise Temperature-controlled shipping with dry ice Guaranteed freshness and quality standards Replacement policy for any delivery issues 100% satisfaction commitment     What Customers Are Saying We’re proud to make corporate gifting easy and impressive for clients like these: "Jenna was great to work with, made the process very simple, and was a great help in putting a custom package together for our customers" - Andy "Jenna provided additional option that weren't listed on the website that fit our budget and made the ordering super easy. Tracking was provided and everything was delivered quickly. Our team LOVED it!" - Kathleen "It was something very different than we have done in the past and our employees loved it." - Timothy "Excellent customer service. Rapid response time. Amazing product." - Kristen "The SRF team was easy to work with and customized my gifts. Fast, friendly, easy service! " - Libby "The variety of gifting options and the ability to tweak gift options to our needs. Also the INCREDIBLE customer service with last minute additions and questions! Jenna is SO very helpful and gracious." - Erin     Corporate Food Gifts FAQ What's the minimum order for gifting? Each gift box must have a minimum value of $100. There is no minimum number of recipients required. Can I send to more than 1000 recipients? Yes! For orders exceeding 1000 recipients, please contact our gifting team for enterprise solutions and custom pricing. How far in advance should I order? We recommend ordering 1-2 weeks in advance during regular seasons, and 3-4 weeks ahead during peak holiday periods. What personalization options are available? You can include personalized gift messages up to 250 characters, which will appear on the packing slip inside each box. Do you offer volume discounts? Yes, we provide special discounts based on the quantity of identical gifts ordered. Please contact our team for detailed pricing information. Can I use website promo codes for corporate orders? No, standard website promotions and Club SRF Rewards points do not apply to corporate gifting orders. What shipping options are available? All corporate food gifts ship via temperature-controlled delivery with dry ice to ensure freshness and quality. Can I schedule delivery dates? Yes, you can ship immediately or schedule delivery dates in advance to align with your corporate calendar. What if there's a delivery issue? We provide tracking for all shipments and have a replacement policy for any delivery problems. Our team monitors all corporate orders closely to ensure your gifts arrive fresh and on time. Ready to Send Corporate Food Gifts That Make an Impact? Premium corporate food gifts do more than just satisfy appetites—they build lasting business relationships that show you truly value your clients, colleagues, and teams. With Snake River Farms, American Wagyu beef and Kurobuta pork create memorable experiences your recipients will genuinely appreciate and remember. We offer flexible shipping options and dedicated concierge support, whether you’re sending a single gift or managing an enterprise-level program. Our focus is on delivering exceptional quality and thoughtful experiences—far beyond the typical forgettable corporate gift. If you’re ready to elevate your corporate gifting and make a meaningful impression, let’s get started. Whether you want to browse our curated gift collections, send an instant digital gift, build a multi-recipient order, or connect directly with me as your gifting specialist, we’ve made it simple. Feel free to text “GIFT” to (208) 600-1779 or email giftsrf@snakeriverfarms.com anytime. I’m committed to responding within 48 business hours and helping you craft a gifting experience that truly stands out.     Author Bio Jenna has been with Snake River Farms since 2020, starting in customer service before joining the corporate gifting team in 2021. She continues to help businesses share memorable food gifts while also supporting operations behind the scenes. Her favorite SRF cuts are Picanha and Skirt Steak—both flavorful, crowd-pleasing options she loves to recommend for gifts that make any occasion special.

Cooking with Beef Tallow: Bold Flavor & Better Sear How to Unlock Bold Flavor and Better Sear. If you’re serious about flavor, start with what goes in the pan. Beef tallow is a high-heat cooking fat that delivers crisp edges, golden crusts, and deep, savory flavor — especially when paired with richly marbled American Wagyu beef. Used by chefs for generations and trusted for its performance, beef tallow holds up under intense heat and adds a layer of richness that oil just can’t match. Whether you’re searing a Snake River Farms ribeye, roasting vegetables, or frying potatoes, a spoonful of tallow takes every bite to the next level. Our 100% pure American Wagyu Beef Tallow is rendered and ready to use — with a high smoke point perfect for searing, sautéing, frying, or roasting. Even a small dollop adds incredible depth and richness. It’s an easy way to bring restaurant-quality results into your own kitchen.   What Is Beef Tallow? Beef tallow is simply rendered beef fat. It’s solid and velvety at room temperature, and turns smooth and creamy once heated. For generations, chefs and home cooks have prized tallow for its versatility, long shelf life, and ability to handle high heat without breaking down. Its naturally high smoke point makes it ideal for pan searing steaks, deep frying potatoes, or roasting vegetables to golden perfection. Unlike many processed cooking fats, quality beef tallow is naturally shelf-stable and clean, containing no additives or preservatives — just pure flavor that enhances whatever you’re cooking.     How to Make Your Own Beef Tallow While you can render beef tallow at home (see the step-by-step method below), we offer premium rendered Beef Tallow that’s ready to use right out of the jar. It saves you time in the kitchen and delivers consistent, rich flavor every time. Pro Tip for Tallow Enthusiasts: Brisket trimmings are especially good for rendering tallow because they’re packed with flavorful fat. Learn more about making the most of your brisket trimmings here. How to Render Beef Tallow at Home Chill the fat. Place trimmings on a sheet pan in the freezer until the edges are firm but the pieces are still pliable. Trim the meat. Remove all meat from the fat, then cut the fat into 1-inch pieces. Smoke the fat. Add the fat pieces to a disposable aluminum pan and place in your smoker while the brisket is cooking. Depending on your smoker size, position it beside or on a shelf under the brisket. Render slowly. Cook for about 4 hours at 250°F, stirring occasionally to prevent burning, until the fat has fully rendered into tallow. Strain well. First strain through a small mesh strainer, then strain again through cheesecloth. Removing impurities will help your tallow last longer and taste better. Store safely. Place the strained tallow in a glass container. Use immediately in liquid form or let it solidify as it cools. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. Ready to skip the rendering and start cooking? Shop Snake River Farms Beef Tallow — perfectly rendered, rich, and ready to elevate everything from steaks to roasted vegetables. Why We Cook with Beef Tallow Beef tallow is one of those timeless cooking fats that delivers on performance, flavor, and quality. It’s clean, versatile, and stands up to high-heat cooking — all while adding subtle richness to every bite. Here’s why it’s a favorite in our kitchens. It’s Clean and SimpleBeef tallow is a single-ingredient cooking fat with no seed oils, fillers, or chemicals. It’s far less processed than most common cooking oils, making it a great choice for whole-food, low-carb, or keto-style cooking. It Performs at High HeatWith a smoke point around 400°F, beef tallow is ideal for searing, frying, and roasting. It holds up better than olive oil, butter, or vegetable oil, helping you achieve crisp edges, deep caramelization, and a steakhouse-style crust.Pro Tip: Add 1–2 tablespoons to a hot cast-iron pan before searing your favorite steaks for incredible flavor and texture. It Adds Rich, Savory FlavorTallow has a subtle beefy taste that enhances anything it touches. It adds richness and umami without overpowering, making it especially good with bold, flavorful cuts like Ribeye, New York Strip, and Bavette. The Health Benefits of Beef TallowNaturally rich in monounsaturated fats, tallow also contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. It’s a clean-burning fat that won’t break down into harmful byproducts at high heat, and it fits well with keto, paleo, carnivore, and whole-food diets.   Feature  Beef Tallow Olive Oil  Butter  Smoke Point  ~400°F (204°C) Extra virgin: ~375°F (191°C) Unsalted butter: ~350°F (177°C) Flavor  Savory, beefy Fruity, herbal (extra virgin) Rich, creamy Best Uses  Searing, frying, roasting Dressings, sautéing, low to medium heat cooking Baking, light sautéing, flavoring Shelf Stable  Yes, shelf stable for months if stored properly No, extra virgin olive oil should be refrigerated after opening for longer storage No, butter requires refrigeration  Processing Minimal, rendered pure fat Varies, extra virgin is least processed; refined oils more processed Minimal, churned dairy fat   Why Choose Beef Tallow? Beef tallow shines in high-heat cooking where many oils fall short. It’s the go-to choice when you want bold flavor, a perfect sear, and a clean, simple ingredient in your kitchen.Discover the rich, versatile flavor of Snake River Farms Beef Tallow—shop now and cook with confidence.     How to Use Beef Tallow in the Kitchen Beef tallow is incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any dish with its rich flavor and high-heat performance. Here are some of the best ways to use it in your cooking: Sear Your SteakAdd a spoonful of beef tallow to a hot cast-iron skillet before searing. It helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust without burning, locking in juices and flavor. Roast or Fry PotatoesUse beef tallow with fingerling potatoes, smashed taters, or steak frites. It produces crispy outsides and tender, fluffy centers that keep everyone coming back for more. Sauté Veggies or AromaticsMushrooms, onions, garlic, and other aromatics get deeper flavor and better browning when sautéed in beef tallow. Fry or Finish MeatsWhether it’s steak bites, burger patties, or rib tips, finishing meats in beef tallow adds richness and depth. It also makes a great base for gravies and pan sauces. Cooking Tip: Always melt beef tallow before adding it to hot pans for the best results and even cooking.     Recipes That Showcase the Power of Beef Tallow Beef tallow enhances the flavor, texture, and sear of every ingredient it touches — especially when paired with high-quality American Wagyu. Here are some of our favorite ways to cook with it, from steakhouse-style mains to crave-worthy sides.   Steakhouse Classics with Elevated Sear Wagyu Steak au PoivreThis peppercorn-crusted steak benefits from a high-heat sear in beef tallow, delivering a crisp crust and a rich pan sauce that elevates every bite. Filet Mignon with Tallow-Seared Mushrooms and OnionsTender filet meets golden-brown mushrooms and caramelized onions — all cooked to perfection in rendered tallow for deep, savory flavor. Seared Ribeye Filets with Crispy PotatoesBold, juicy ribeye filets develop a perfectly golden crust, paired with crispy potatoes seared in beef tallow for an unbeatable combination. American Wagyu Steak StroganoffClassic comfort food with next-level richness — finished with a spoonful of beef tallow for extra depth and silkiness. Want to recreate the steakhouse crust at home? Start with premium Snake River Farms American Wagyu or USDA Choice and Prime steaks and sear them in our rendered beef tallow for flavor that hits every time. Impressive Roasts and Braises Herb-Crusted Boneless Rib Roast with Red Wine GravyA holiday-worthy centerpiece that roasts beautifully with beef tallow, resulting in a golden crust and tender interior. Tri Tip with Marinated Cucumbers and Tallow PotatoesTallow-roasted potatoes steal the show in this bright, beef-forward dish — perfect for summer grilling.   Planning a dinner party or weekend roast? Stock up on premium cuts like tri tip and rib roast, and don’t forget the beef tallow to make your sides shine.     Sides That Steal the Spotlight Smashed Tallow Taters with Spicy AioliCrispy on the outside and fluffy inside — this side dish makes the most of beef tallow’s high-heat crunch. Garlic Butter Steak BitesBite-sized flavor bombs made even better with a pre-sear in beef tallow before finishing with garlic butter. Bavette Steak FritesClassic French bistro vibes, with fries that practically demand to be cooked in beef tallow. Your fries and veggies deserve better than olive oil. Get that golden, crispy finish with Snake River Farms Beef Tallow — soon to be available in our ready-to-cook tin. Frequently Asked Questions How do I use beef tallow for cooking? Use it like oil or butter — sear, sauté, roast, or fry. Is beef tallow better than olive oil? For high heat, yes. Tallow stays stable and adds rich flavor. What does beef tallow taste like? It’s mild, savory, and slightly beefy — enhances flavor without overpowering. Does beef tallow need to be refrigerated? No, it is shelf stable. Final Thoughts: A Flavor Essential Worth Having on Hand? Beef tallow is a clean, stable cooking fat that brings next-level flavor and performance to your kitchen.Perfect for steak lovers and anyone who cooks at high heat, it delivers crispy sears and rich, savory notes every time.Bring bold flavor and perfect sears to your kitchen. Our 100% pure American Wagyu Beef Tallow is rendered, ready to use, and ideal for steaks, roasted vegetables, and more. Shop Now →    

Quarter Beef Guide: What You Need to Know Before You Buy Tired of paying premium prices for individual steaks while wondering if there's a smarter way to stock your freezer? You're not alone. Many savvy shoppers are discovering the value of buying beef in bulk, and quarter beef is leading the charge. A quarter beef purchase could be your answer—offering bulk savings, premium cuts, and months of meal planning solved in one order. Whether you're feeding a growing family, love hosting dinner parties, or simply want restaurant-quality beef at home, buying a quarter cow delivers exceptional value and convenience. Let’s explore what you actually get, how much it costs, and why our Snake River Farms Quarter Beef Box might be the smartest investment for your kitchen.   What Is a Quarter Beef? Traditionally, buying a quarter beef meant purchasing one-fourth of an entire cow, usually from a local ranch or butcher. It involved custom butchering, freezer paper, and a lot of decision-making about how you'd like your cuts prepared. We’ve modernized the experience. Our Quarter Beef Box includes premium American Wagyu beef, carefully curated and pre-portioned into ready-to-cook cuts. There’s no guesswork, no hanging weight to calculate, and no butcher jargon to decipher. We use the term "quarter beef" instead of "quarter cow" because it's the industry-standard language for retail and direct-to-consumer sales. It’s not about getting one physical quarter of a single animal—it’s about getting the equivalent mix of cuts in a balanced, usable box. Curious about what makes our beef special? Learn more about American Wagyu beef.   Is Buying a Quarter Cow Worth It?  If you’re curious whether a quarter cow is truly a good value, you’re not alone. It’s a smart question—and one we hear often. Spoiler: the savings are substantial, and the convenience pays off over time. Cost Breakdown: Quarter Beef vs. Individual Purchases Significant savings by buying beef in bulk. Our Quarter Beef Box includes approximately 65 pounds of premium American Wagyu beef for one price. If you put the same items in your shopping cart, the total cost would be almost 27% more. The current price is $1,393 compared to an individual price of $1,893. The Quarter Beef is a tremendous value so you can stock the freezer with filet mignon, ribeye, and ground beef—less sticker shock. When Quarter Beef Makes Financial Sense Our Quarter Beef Box makes the most sense when: You're feeding 3 to 4+ people regularly You cook with beef 2 to 4 times a week You have 4+ cubic feet of freezer space You're planning meals a few weeks or months ahead Over a 3 to 6 month span, you're locking in today's premium quality at a better price, avoiding inflation and weekly trips to the butcher counter.   How Much Meat Do You Get in a Quarter Cow from SRF? Wondering what you actually get when you order a quarter cow? We’ve done all the work for you—no guesswork, no butchering, no mystery boxes. Our Quarter Beef Box is fully curated and ready to stock your freezer with a well-balanced mix of steaks, roasts, and ground beef.  Our Quarter Beef Box Contents  Here’s exactly what we include:36x Ground Beef Bricks (1 lb each) = 36 lbs6x Filet Mignon (6 oz each) = 2.25 lbs4x NY Strip Steaks = ~3 lbs4x Ribeye Steaks = ~3 lbs6x Top Sirloin Steaks = ~4 lbs2x Chuck Roasts = ~6 lbs1x Flat Iron Steak = ~1.5 lbs1x Flank Steak = ~2 lbs1x Skirt Steak = ~2 lbs1x Tri-Tip = ~2.5 lbs2x Fajita Slices = ~2 lbs2x NY Strip Slices = ~1.5 lbsTotal: ~65 pounds of American Wagyu beef   How Long Will a Quarter Cow Last a Family of 4? Let’s say your household eats beef 3 to 4 times per week. That’s 12 to 16 meals a month. With ~65 pounds of beef and average portion sizes (6-8 oz per adult), the box will comfortably last 2 to 4 months, depending on how often you cook. You can expect variety, too: Weeknight dinners: Ground beef, top sirloin, chuck roast Weekend grilling: Ribeye, NY strip, tri-tip Entertaining: Filet mignon, skirt steak, flank   Understanding Beef Cuts: What's Included in Your Quarter Cow Premium Steaks (Ready for Grilling) Filet Mignon: Our most tender cut. Great for special occasions. Explore our filet mignon recipes. Ribeye & NY Strip: Richly marbled, ideal for steakhouse-style searing. Discover the difference between the New York Strip and Ribeye. Top Sirloin: Leaner, versatile, perfect for weekday grilling or slicing over salads. Learn five foolproof methods to master the perfect sirloin.   Everyday Cooking Cuts Ground Beef: Burger nights, meatballs, taco Tuesday, you name it. Chuck Roasts: Comfort food classics like pot roast, stew, or shredded beef. Specialty Cuts: Tri-tip, flank, and skirt are perfect for quick sears, fajitas, or slicing for salads and bowls. Cuts You Won't Find in Most Grocery Stores Flat Iron Steak: One of the most tender cuts after filet—a true hidden gem. Fajita & NY Strip Slices: Pre-sliced for quick cooking, stir-fries, or wraps. Want to discover more hidden gems? Check out our most underrated cuts. Practical Considerations: Storage & Meal Planning Buying beef in bulk is smart, but it also takes a little planning. From freezer space to weekly meal prep, we’re here to help you make the most of your Quarter Beef Box. It starts with proper storage and a few simple strategies to keep things easy, organized, and delicious. Freezer Space Requirements To store a full Quarter Beef Box, you’ll need at least 4 cubic feet of freezer space. We recommend organizing by cut type and using bins or freezer bags for easy access. All our beef is vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness and efficiency, reducing the risk of freezer burn and allowing for longer storage. From Freezer to Table: Meal Planning Strategy Plan weekly meals based on what you thaw. Use FIFO (first in, first out) method for rotation. Thawing tip: Transfer from freezer on to a plate and in to fridge 24 hours before cooking. Avoid beef fatigue with recipes for stir-fries, roasts, tacos, bowls, and more. Need inspiration? Browse our recipe collection for fast, flavorful ideas.     Why Choose Our Quarter Cow? There’s more to our Quarter Cow than just quantity—it’s about quality, integrity, and ease. From the exceptional caliber of our American Wagyu to the way we raise, portion, and deliver every cut, we’ve built this box to exceed expectations at every level. Here’s what sets it apart: American Wagyu vs. Commodity Beef Our American Wagyu beef stands apart in: Marbling: Rich, buttery texture Flavor: Bold and complex Tenderness: Next-level eating experience All our cattle are pasture-raised and grain-finished for ideal taste and texture. Learn more: What is American Wagyu Beef?   Sustainability & Ethical Practices We take our responsibility seriously: Raised with respect and care Sustainable ranching methods Transparent supply chain and processing We believe doing things the right way isn't optional—it's foundational to every product we offer. Learn more: Future Forward and A Matter of Respect.   Convenience & Quality Assurance No custom orders or cutting required Professionally portioned and packed Shipped frozen, delivered fresh Have questions or need prep tips? Our in-house expert is here to help—Chat with Dave for personalized guidance or contact our Customer Care team for anything else you need.   Making the Decision: Is Quarter Beef Right for You? Not sure if a Quarter Beef Box fits your lifestyle? We’ve outlined a few common scenarios to help you decide. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just cooking for two, here's how to know if buying in bulk makes sense or if individual cuts might be a better fit. Ideal Candidates for Quarter Beef Purchase Families of 4 or more Frequent entertainers Passionate home cooks Meal preppers Quality-conscious buyers   When to Consider Individual Purchases Instead Single or two-person households Limited freezer space Rare beef eaters Those who prefer rotating protein options more frequently   Quarter Beef FAQs: Shipping, Thawing & Storage Q: How long will my beef last in the freezer? All products are packed to deliver frozen or partially frozen and can be stored safely in your freezer for up to 6 months. We recommend organizing by cut type and using the FIFO (first in, first out) method to rotate your inventory and preserve peak quality. Q: What if my beef arrives thawed or cool to the touch? Our products are designed to stay cold in transit. If your order arrives partially thawed, check the internal temperature with a food thermometer. According to USDA guidelines, beef that’s been kept at 40°F or cooler is safe to store in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Fully cooked hams can be refrigerated for up to 90 days. If you have any concerns about the condition of your delivery, reach out—we’re here to help.   Q: What’s the SRF Guarantee? We guarantee your order will arrive frozen or partially frozen with all items included and shipped to the correct address. If something doesn’t meet expectations, our customer care team is ready to make it right.   Q: How long does it take to thaw a steak or roast?  Allow approximately 6 hours per pound for safe refrigerator thawing. Most steaks will be ready in 12 – 24 hours Larger roasts may take 24 – 48 hours After thawing, we recommend using beef within 7 days  Note: Items removed from their original vacuum-sealed packaging during freezing or thawing are excluded from our quality guarantee.   Q: How should I dispose of the dry ice? Leave the dry ice in the shipping box and place it in a well-ventilated area (like outside or in the garage) until it evaporates. Note: Do not place dry ice in a sink, trash can, or enclosed space—it can cause damage due to its extreme temperature.     Ready to Stock Your Freezer? Your Next Steps Here’s what you get with our Quarter Beef Box: 65 lbs of premium American Wagyu beef Over 25% savings compared to individual cuts Ready-to-cook variety for weeknight meals and special occasions Convenient delivery to your door Order your Quarter Beef Box today and bring the ranch-to-table experience home.  

Tailgate Smoker Recipes That Bring the Smoke and the Crowd Tailgating isn't just about tossing burgers on the grill anymore. It’s about low and slow heat, deep smoky flavor, and the kind of swagger that turns a parking lot into a pre-game legend. We’ve taken our favorite smoker recipes—the bold, the juicy, the crowd-tested—and turned them into a playbook built for game day. These dishes bring the flavor and hold up like champions, whether you’re feeding five friends or a full crew of superfans. From bacon-wrapped meatballs to brisket burgers with whiskey jam, pork collars that practically shred themselves, and smoky sausage links with just the right snap—we’ve got your lineup.   Table of Contents  Feed the Whole Crew: Smoker Recipes for Tailgating Smoked Burgers + Tailgate Sandwiches  Ready-to-Heat Favorites for Game Day  Make-Ahead Smoker Tips for Early Starts Game Day Smoker Tips + Tailgate Setup FAQs About Smoking Meat on Game Day  Final Whistle: Tailgate Bold, Tailgate Smoked      Feed the Whole Crew: Smoker Recipes for Tailgating   When game day’s on the line, you need more than just good food—you need enough of it. The best smoker recipes are the ones that stretch, shred, and slice easily, feeding a crowd without keeping you tied to the grill. We've smoked our way through dozens of tailgates, and these are the dishes we count on when it's time to rally the crew.   A Few Heavy Hitters for the Main Event When we’re feeding a full parking lot (or close to it), we go straight to the cuts that deliver bold flavor and enough servings to keep everyone full and happy.   Kurobuta Pork Collar: Known for its marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this is the pork we reach for when we’re smoking low and slow. It's rich, juicy, and pulls apart like a dream. Want to make it into a tailgate classic? Try our Pulled Pork from Kurobuta Pork Collar recipe—perfect on buns, nachos, or straight off the board. American Wagyu Spicy Smoked Beef Sausage: Fully cooked and full of bold, beefy flavor, these sausages are built for game day. We like to slice them up for crowd-friendly boards or serve them in buns with all the fixings. Pair them with our Smoked Hot Sausage Links with Tomato and Red Pepper Jam recipe for next-level tailgate flavor. American Wagyu Tri Tip: With its triangular shape and deep marbling, tri tip is made for slicing and sharing. It’s fast to smoke, easy to carve, and makes an incredible centerpiece. For big flavor with a twist, try our Smoked Tri Tip with Green Pipián Romesco Sauce. Kurobuta Pork Shoulder: Rich, juicy, and always a crowd-pleaser, this cut is our go-to for feeding a full crew. Perfect for long smokes, easy pulling, and serious tailgate flavor. It takes a while to fully cook, so it's worth doing the day before. Smoked Pork Shoulder Heat smoker to 250°F to 275°F. Trim excess fat and apply pork rub generously. Smoke, fat cap up, 4–5 hrs or until internal temp reaches 165°F. Wrap tightly in foil with 2–3 cups of apple juice. Return to smoker, cook to 200°F internal temp (5–7 hrs). Check tenderness with a probe (should feel like room temp butter). Let rest 1 hour, then unwrap and pull pork. Shop Kurobuta Pork Shoulder Want to feed a crowd?  Check out our Quarter Beef — a perfect pack of premium cuts ready for your smoker and guaranteed to impress.   “We had family over for a BBQ, smoking and cooking the pork collar on a Green Mountain grill, we all were so impressed by the flavor of the pork!it was melt in your mouth good! Everyone went home with left overs!” - Sharon S., Verified Buyer  Bite-Sized Smoker Favorites Tailgates aren’t just about the main event—sometimes it’s the bites that steal the show. These small-format crowd-pleasers are easy to prep, quick to serve, and always the first to disappear.   American Wagyu Gourmet Hot Dogs: These hot dogs aren’t your average stadium fare. Cut them into bite-sized pieces and grill or smoke them for a quick, savory snack that’s perfect for pre-game grazing. Want a crowd-favorite twist? Try our Smoked Hot Dog Bites recipe. American Wagyu Ground Beef: Rich, buttery, and full of umami, this is our go-to ingredient for tailgate meatballs. Wrap them in bacon, toss them in the smoker, and watch what happens. The Smoked Bacon-Wrapped Meatballs recipe hits every salty, smoky note you crave on game day. American Wagyu Brisket: Brisket is a full-plate commitment, but we love smoking one at home, then turning it into tacos for a more mobile tailgate experience. If you want a next-level flavor combo, check out our Wagyu Brisket Tacos with Elotes Jalapeño Ranch. Kurobuta Pork Bacon: Smoky, thick-cut, and intensely flavorful—our Kurobuta bacon is a must-have tailgate MVP. We use it to wrap jalapeños stuffed with cheese and sausage for the ultimate two-bite snack. Try our Bacon-Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers recipe and watch them disappear before kickoff. Bacon Jalapeño Poppers Prep Time: 15 min Cook Time: 20 min Serves: 6 Halve and seed 6 large jalapeños. Fill each with cream cheese and shredded cheddar. Wrap with SRF Kurobuta bacon; secure with toothpicks. Brush grill with SRF Beef Tallow. Grill until bacon is crisp and filling is melty, turning occasionally. Shop Kurobuta Bacon Want a hassle-free tailgate? Check out our Boxes for curated favorites and top cuts—perfect for sharing (or keeping) on game day.   “First time tasting and smoking a wagyu brisket and it was amazing! The most tender and juicy brisket I have ever had. The quality was truly worth every penny!” -Justin L., Verified Buyer    Smoked Burgers + Tailgate Sandwiches When it comes to tailgate food, burgers and sandwiches always get the crowd fired up. But don’t settle for basic. Build them with bold, smoked cuts and unexpected flavor combinations that keep fans talking long after the final whistle. From brisket burgers to smoky Cubanos, these hand-held heroes pack serious tailgate swagger.   Burgers That Go Beyond Basic Forget everything you know about game-day burgers. Ours start with American Wagyu and end with smoke, richness, and layers of craveable toppings. Start with our Smoked Brisket Burgers with Onion Whiskey Jam—a smoky, juicy twist on a classic that brings deep beefy flavor and a sweet-savory kick. Stack with toasted brioche buns, melty cheddar, pickled onions, and spicy mustard—or set up a build-your-own station so everyone can customize their own masterpiece. Amazing on a Sunday game day!!!!!! Perfect way to make a simple meal that much better.” - Lukas Z., Verified Buyer  Sandwiches With Bold Personality Tailgate sandwiches should be anything but ordinary. We like ours stacked high, smoked low, and loaded with flavor from the first bite to the last. Try our California Tri Tip Sandwiches with Avocado and Chimichurri. Sliced American Wagyu tri tip brings rich flavor and smoky depth, while fresh avocado and herby chimichurri brighten up every bite. For something hearty and fully loaded, the Kurobuta Pork Cubano Sandwich is the move. Layered with smoky pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, and mustard, then pressed to perfection—it’s everything you want in a tailgate sandwich. Pro tip: Pre-slice and press sandwiches at home, then reheat on a griddle or flat top at your tailgate setup for melty, crispy results. Master every flip and press: For perfectly flipping and pressing your smoked burgers and sandwiches, the Smithey Mighty Spatula is a game-changer. Durable, precise, and built to handle everything from burgers to Cubanos—this is the tool you didn’t know you needed for your smoker setup.   Ready-to-Heat Favorites for Game Day For the ultimate convenience without sacrificing flavor, these fully cooked, smoked cuts are perfect for prepping ahead. Just heat, serve, and watch the crowd cheer. American Wagyu Smoked BrisketRich and tender with deep smoke flavor, this brisket reheats beautifully. Slice it thin and serve on toasted buns with pickles and your favorite BBQ sauce for instant crowd-pleasers. Wagyu Smoked Prime RibFully cooked and richly marbled, our smoked prime rib needs only gentle reheating. Serve with horseradish cream and roasted veggies for an elevated tailgate feast. Wagyu Smoked Tri TipSliced and smoky, the tri tip is great for build-your-own sandwiches or paired with chimichurri and grilled bread for bold, handheld flavor. No Grill? No Problem. Our American Wagyu Beef Jerky brings bold flavor with zero prep—just open and snack. Perfect for the drive, the lot, or mid-game fuel → Explore Jerky.       Make-Ahead Tips for Early Starts Experienced tailgaters know the secret to success: prep ahead and relax when the game day excitement hits. Smoking meat low and slow is a labor of love, but it doesn’t have to keep you up all night or tied to the smoker on game day. With the right preparation and storage strategies, you can have flavorful, ready-to-serve dishes that hold heat and keep their juicy, smoky goodness—even after a night in the cooler. Some cuts are just made for make-ahead magic. Pulled pork, tri tip, and smoked sausages all reheat beautifully while maintaining their tenderness and bold flavors. After smoking, wrap your meat tightly in foil to seal in moisture and protect against drying out. Store in a cooler or insulated container to keep temperatures steady without overcooking or cooling too quickly. When you’re ready to eat, reheat gently over indirect heat on the grill or with a small tailgate smoker, warming through without sacrificing juiciness.   Want to up your tailgate game? Explore our Ultimate Meat Smoker Guide for expert tips, must-have tools, and everything you need to prep and smoke like a pro. Game Day Tips + Tailgate Setup Tailgating with a smoker isn’t just about the food—it’s about the full game day experience. From gear setup to time management, planning ahead makes all the difference. Whether you're parking lot pros or backyard rookies, a little strategy goes a long way. Here’s how to keep the smoke rolling, the flavors bold, and the vibes stress-free. How to Tailgate with a Smoker Smokers bring serious flavor, but they also come with extra logistics. These tips will help you nail setup, timing, and temps for a winning tailgate. Bring the right smoker. Portable models like the Weber Smokey Mountain or Traeger Ranger are compact, reliable, and built for mobility. Offset or pellet smokers work too, as long as you have space and fuel ready to go. Plan for fuel and temperature management. Wind, rain, or cold temps can throw off your cook. Bring extra charcoal, pellets, or propane, and use wind guards or insulated blankets if needed. A leave-in thermometer is your MVP for tracking temps without lifting the lid. Start early and rest your meat. Low and slow takes time, so fire up your smoker well before kickoff. Don’t forget to factor in a 30 to 60 minute rest period—especially for big cuts like brisket or tri tip. Find your perfect fit: Explore our Smoker Style Guide to choose the right setup for your game day goals → Smoker Style: How to Choose the Perfect Smoker.   Keep It Simple, Tidy, and Delicious You’re feeding a crowd—streamline your setup so you can spend more time enjoying the game and less time cleaning up. Prep zones matter. Folding tables create space for slicing, seasoning, and serving. Stack coolers by use (raw meats vs. drinks/snacks) to avoid cross-contamination. Pack a trash bag and keep a bin or crate handy for dirty gear. Serve smart. Paper boats, butcher paper, and disposable gloves make service and cleanup a breeze. Bring paper towels, wipes, and foil for wrapping leftovers or transporting hot items home. Season like a pro. Try SRF’s Santa Maria-style seasoning for big, bold flavor with minimal prep. Or go all-in with the SRF Signature Steak Seasoning to level up anything from brisket to burgers. Get the full playbook: Read our top tips for an easy, delicious, and stress-free tailgate → Great Tailgate Tips and Tricks. Frequently Asked Questions About Smoking Meat on Game Day What is the best meat to smoke for tailgating? If you plan to start and finish smoking meat at your tailgate it’s best to go with smaller cuts like sausages. Large cuts like brisket and pork shoulder can be smoked in advance and reheated once you’re set-up.  Can I smoke food the day before a tailgate? Yes, just be sure to store it properly and reheat gently. Wrapping brisket or ribs in butcher paper and reheating them onsite. What smoker is best for on-the-go tailgating? Portable pellet smokers, compact charcoal grills, and drum-style smokers can all work. It depends on having a vehicle that carries the smoker you use. How do you keep smoked food hot during a tailgate? Wrap your meat in foil or butcher paper, then store it in an insulated cooler or Cambro-style carrier to maintain warmth without drying it out. Final Whistle: Tailgate Bold, Tailgate Smoked You don’t have to grill to be a tailgate hero. Showing up with something smoked low and slow might just be your winning move. Smoke adds depth, complexity, and undeniable tailgate cred—especially when you’re feeding a crowd that craves bold flavor. Whether it’s a whole brisket smoked to perfection, pulled pork sliders prepped the night before, or bite-sized bacon bombs fired off fresh, smoked meats bring unmistakable energy to game day. They're rich, satisfying, and guaranteed to draw a crowd around your setup. And when the cuts come from Snake River Farms? You’ve already won. Our American Wagyu and Kurobuta pork deliver unmatched marbling, tenderness, and big-time flavor that holds up in any smoker. Grab a curated box, build your lineup, and roll into the lot ready to impress. Tailgate like a pro → Shop Curated Boxes.  

Tailgate Grill Recipes That Score Big on Game Day The smoke’s rising, the playlist is locked in, and kickoff is around the corner. Whether you're tailgating at the stadium or grilling from your driveway, this is where the pre-game magic happens. The best tailgate menus hit that perfect balance—easy to prep, packed with flavor, and made to feed a hungry crew. From juicy American Wagyu burgers and bold sausages to fast sides and a few unexpected showstoppers, we’ve got recipes built to win the day. We’re also sharing expert setup tips to help you stay ahead of the chaos—so you can actually enjoy game day, not just man the grill. Need a head start? Stock up with our Griller’s Pack—loaded with crowd-favorite cuts, ready to hit the heat.   Table of Contents  The Ultimate Tailgate Menu Ideas  Level Up Your Tailgate Grill Skills with Expert Guides  Easy Tailgate Setup + Grill Tips  More Game Day Food: Easy Tailgate Sides   Must-Have Meats + Tailgate Packs  Final Whistle: Tailgate Like It Matters    The Ultimate Tailgate Menu Ideas The best game day menus don’t overcomplicate things—they just hit all the right notes. You want a mix of fast, grill-friendly proteins, crowd-pleasing sides, and a few bold upgrades to keep it interesting. These tailgate grill recipes are designed for flavor, ease, and flexibility. Prep ahead, pack them up, and fire away when the timing’s right. Whether you’re feeding a few close friends or your entire fantasy league, this lineup delivers.   Grilled Meats That Steal the Show When the grill’s hot and the crowd’s hungry, these are the MVPs. Easy to cook, easy to serve, and guaranteed to bring the flavor. Teres MajorThe sleeper hit. This tender, steakhouse-worthy cut delivers big on flavor and cooks up quickly—perfect for tailgating. Spicy Smoked Sausages & Bacon BratwurstBold, smoky, and built for feeding a crowd. Toss them on the grill and serve with buns, beer mustard, or sliced on a platter. Tri Tip Roast or Smoked Tri TipTender, beefy, and versatile. Slice it for sliders or tacos, or serve it Santa Maria-style with beans and salsa. American Wagyu Hot DogsA classic, upgraded. These all-beef hot dogs have deep flavor, snappy casing, and real tailgate energy. Winning Play: Stock your cooler with Snake River Farms game day meats and let the grill do the heavy lifting. Level Up Your Tailgate Grill Skills with Expert Guides Want to bring your game day grilling to the next level? We have you covered with in-depth guides that cover everything from picking the best steaks to smoking brisket low and slow. Best Cuts of Steak for GrillingNot all steaks are created equal on the grill. Learn which cuts give you the most flavor, tenderness, and perfect grill marks in The Best Cuts of Steak for Grilling. Whether you want something quick-cooking or slow-roasted, this guide will help you pick winners every time. Mastering Brisket on the Charcoal GrillSmoking brisket might seem intimidating, but it’s all about technique and patience. Get step-by-step instructions and pro tips in Grill Smoked Brisket: Smoking a Brisket on Charcoal Grills to achieve tender, juicy results that’ll have everyone cheering. Southside BBQ Done RightIf you want to impress your crew with bold, authentic Southern flavor, check out How to Prepare SRF Southside BBQ. This guide dives into seasoning and cooking methods that bring out the best in your cuts. Perfect Grilled Tri Tip Every TimeTri tip is a tailgate favorite for a reason. Follow the expert advice in How to Grill a Snake River Farms American Wagyu Tri Tip for juicy, tender tri tip with that signature smoky crust. Winning Play: Bookmark these guides and keep them handy on game day. With Snake River Farms as your grilling coach, you’re set to impress the crowd and score big on flavor.     Next-Level Tailgate Burgers Burgers are a tailgate essential, but when you start with American Wagyu, they become a game day highlight. Rich, juicy, and crowd-approved, they’re perfect for burger bars, loaded sliders, or anything in between.   Build a Better Burger The secret to a next-level burger is simple: better beef. Our American Wagyu ground beef brings buttery flavor and perfect texture to every bite—no need to overdo it on toppings. Set up a DIY burger bar with bold cheeses, tangy sauces, and crunchy extras. Or go with pre-built sliders for an easy-to-grab option that keeps the grill line moving. Winning Play: Watch how to make the perfect Wagyu burger: Pick Your Perfect Patty When it comes to tailgate burgers, the star is the patty—and Snake River Farms offers a range that fits every craving and cooking style. Choose from: SRF Pioneer Burger — a classic, handcrafted patty with rich flavor and great grill marks. Pioneer Sliders — perfect for crowd-friendly, snackable bites. American Wagyu Ground Beef Brick Pack — ideal for DIY burgers with fresh ground quality. SRF Hamburger Patties (1 lb) — ready-made convenience for quick grilling. American Wagyu Dry-Aged Patties (Fresh, 1 lb) — for those who want next-level richness and depth. Wagyu Pioneer Smash Burgers — thin, crispy, and perfectly portioned for smash burger fans. Whether you’re firing up full-size patties or smash burgers, there’s a Snake River Farms option built to impress. Press Play to Pick Your Patty: See how four patties, cooked the same way, deliver different flavor:   Smash Burgers for the Win Wagyu smash burgers are a tailgate game changer—fast to cook, with crispy, caramelized edges and juicy centers that keep fans coming back for more. Thanks to their quick cook time and irresistible texture, they’re perfect for feeding a crowd without the wait. Plus, smash burgers play beautifully on a portable griddle, making them tailgate-friendly whether you’re at the stadium or backyard grilling. Ready to score big on game day? Grab the Smash Burger Bundle — perfectly portioned, handcrafted American Wagyu patties that make tailgate cooking easy and delicious. Fire up the griddle, stack your toppings, and watch your crowd cheer every juicy bite. Winning Play: Watch the full smash burger demo: Easy Tailgate Setup + Grill Tips A great tailgate isn’t just about what you’re grilling—it’s about how well you’re set up. The best hosts know that a few smart moves before the game make everything run smoother when it’s go time. From organizing your gear to packing your cooler with strategy, a little prep goes a long way. Having the right tools and ingredients in place means less scrambling and more time soaking up the pre-game buzz.   Whether you’re cooking for a crew or just a few, this checklist keeps you covered: What to Pack + Prep Ahead Fold-out tables for a sturdy prep and serving station Portable coolers with dedicated space for raw meats, drinks, and sides Knife, fuel, and seasoning kits to keep your essentials organized and ready Extra foil, paper towels, and trash bags to stay clean and keep things moving Santa Maria Style Seasoning for that bold, smoky flavor that levels up everything from tri tip to veggies Want to take it next level? Learn how to throw a full Santa Maria–style tailgate feast   6 Tailgate Recipes that Bring Big Game Day Energy  Get fired up for kickoff with these game day recipes, tailgate-tested favorites made to impress a crowd. From sizzling skewers to steakhouse-worthy mains, each dish is designed to deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.    1. Grilled Picanha  This Brazilian-style cut was made for tailgating. Rich, juicy, and packed with flavor, picanha delivers big steak energy without the fuss. We slice it into thick steaks, thread them on skewers, and grill them over high heat for that perfect char. Serve them hot off the grill with or without chimichurri—either way, it’s a total crowd-pleaser that’s easy to pass around and even easier to devour. Explore Grilled Picanha Recipe 2. Hanger Steak with Chimichurri This is the kind of steak that stops the game—at least for a few bites. Hanger steak is known for its deep, beefy flavor and tender texture, making it a standout on the grill. We sear it hot and fast, then slice it thin and top it with a punchy chimichurri loaded with fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of vinegar. Serve it up on a platter for easy grazing or tuck it into warm tortillas for next-level steak tacos.   Explore Hanger Steak with Chimichurri Recipe   3. Grilled Flank Steak with Corn This recipe hits the sweet spot between hearty and fresh. Flank steak is quick to grill and easy to slice—ideal for game day crowds. Paired with a vibrant confetti corn salad bursting with sweet corn, peppers, and herbs, it brings color and flavor to your tailgate spread. Serve it sliced on a platter or build your own tacos right off the grill.   Explore Grilled Flank Steak with Corn Recipe   4. Pork Belly Skewers Tailgate food doesn’t get much better than this—crispy, fatty pork belly grilled to perfection and finished with a bold chili-lime salt. These skewers are big on flavor and built for sharing, with just the right balance of heat, citrus, and richness. Serve them hot off the grill and watch them disappear before halftime.   Explore Pork Belly Skewers Recipe   5. Grilled Sausage Charcuterie Board This one’s a guaranteed crowd favorite—an all-meat board loaded with sizzling sausage, bold flavors, and game day ease. We grill up a mix of our favorite sausages, then slice and serve them alongside classic charcuterie board staples like pickles, mustards, and crusty bread. It’s easy to prep, easy to customize, and perfect for grazing between plays.   Explore Grilled Sausage Charcuterie Recipe   6. Chili Lime Shrimp Skewers Light, zesty, and ready in minutes—these shrimp skewers bring a fresh twist to your tailgate lineup. Marinated in chili, lime, and garlic, the shrimp cook fast on the grill and pack a punch of bright, citrusy heat. They’re perfect as a lighter option alongside heavier meats, or served as handheld apps while the main course finishes up..   Explore Chili Lime Shrimp Skewers Recipe       More Game Day Food: Easy Tailgate Sides These easy tailgate recipes are built for real game day action—no forks, no fuss, just crowd-pleasing flavor you can eat standing up. Whether you're gathered around the grill, walking the lot, or perched on a cooler, these sides are designed to travel well, hold up in warm weather, and pair with everything from hot dogs to tri tip. Each one adds color, crunch, and balance to your tailgate menu—no sit-down spread required.   Charred Corn Chili-Lime Butter (No Plate Needed) Prep Time: 10 minCook Time: 10 to12 minServes: 6 Ingredients 6 ears of corn, husked 3 tablespoon softened butter 1 teaspoon melted SRF Beef Tallow Zest and juice of 1 lime ½ teaspoon chili powder Salt to taste Instructions In a small bowl, mix softened butter, tallow, lime zest, juice, and chili powder. Grill corn over medium-high heat, rotating until lightly charred. Brush with chili-lime butter and season with salt. Serve hot or room temp—no forks needed.   Crispy Smashed Potato Bites (Tailgate Finger Food) Prep Time: 10 minCook Time: 25 minServes: 4 to 6 Ingredients 1.5 lbs baby Yukon gold potatoes 2 tablespoons melted SRF Beef Tallow Salt and cracked pepper Optional: garlic powder, rosemary, or grated parmesan Instructions Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool slightly. Smash gently with a cup or fork. Drizzle with tallow and season. Grill on a hot grate or roast at 400°F for 10 to12 minutes until golden and crisp. Pro Tip: Tallow gives these crispy edges that olive oil just can’t match. Confetti Corn Salad Cups (Pack + Serve Cold) note: Serve in small cups with forks for walkable tailgate snacks.Prep Time: 15 minServes: 6 to 8 Ingredients 3 cups grilled corn (brushed with tallow before grilling) 1 cup cherry tomatoes, chopped ½ cup red bell pepper, diced ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped 1 to 2 tablespoon lime juice 1 tbsp olive oil or neutral dressing Salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro Instructions Grill corn and brush lightly with melted SRF Beef Tallow for depth. Let cool, then cut from cob. Toss with remaining ingredients and chill at least 1 hour. Serve in small cups with forks for easy, mobile tailgate snacking.     Romaine Wedge with Bacon + Blue Cheese (Crisp Salad in a Cup) Prep Time: 10 minNo cooking requiredServes: 6+ Ingredients 2 heads romaine, leaves separated 6 slices cooked SRF bacon, crumbled (crisped in SRF tallow, if desired) ½ cup blue cheese crumbles 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Optional: pickled onions, ranch drizzle, chives Instructions Lay romaine leaves on a platter to create handheld “cups.” Fill each with bacon, cheese, and tomatoes. Drizzle lightly with ranch or vinaigrette just before serving. Pro Tip: Frying bacon in beef tallow adds an umami punch and ties in with your main grill lineup.   Bacon Jalapeño Poppers (Bold Heat Bite Sized) Prep Time: 15 minCook Time: 20 minServes: 6 Ingredients 6 large jalapeños, halved and seeded 4 oz cream cheese 4 oz shredded cheddar 12 strips SRF Kurobuta Bacon 1 tsp SRF Beef Tallow (for brushing the grill) Instructions Fill jalapeño halves with cream cheese and cheddar. Wrap each with bacon and secure with toothpicks. Brush the grill or griddle with melted tallow. Grill poppers over medium heat, turning occasionally, until bacon is crisp and filling is melty.   Must-Have Meats + Tailgate Packs Want to take the guesswork out of game day? These SRF meats and grill packs are ready to cook, easy to prep, and built for bold flavor. From handcrafted hot dogs to smoky tri tip and craveable sausages, these picks make it simple to bring your A-game to the tailgate. Whether you're cooking on the fly or stacking your cooler with all-stars, here are our top choices to build your best lineup yet.   Wagyu Hot Dogs A game day classic—snappy, beefy, and anything but ordinary. Smoked Habanero Sausage Packed with smoky heat and melty cheese—tailgate-ready flavor bombs. Bacon Bratwurst Juicy, smoky, and made with real Kurobuta bacon for extra indulgence. Smoked Tri Tip Pre-smoked and ready to heat, slice, and serve—no grill required. American Wagyu Ground Beef The foundation of next-level burgers, sliders, and meatballs. Build your own game day lineup › Subscribe to customize your next box. Final Whistle: Tailgate Like It Matters Tailgating is more than a meal—it’s a vibe. Make yours unforgettable by choosing delicious, quality cuts that simplify prep and deliver unbeatable flavor. When your crew is happy and satisfied, the whole day feels like a win. Snake River Farms meats are crafted for moments like this—ready to help you bring the heat and keep the good times rolling. Bookmark your favorite recipes, start planning your game day spread, and get ready to make memories around the grill. And remember: pack the tongs, the playlist, and plenty of napkins—you’ll want to savor every bite. Want more tips? Check out our full Great Tailgate Tips and Tricks guide. Want a stress-free way to stock up? Subscribe and save on your favorite game day meats—custom boxes, flexible delivery, and serious tailgate flavor in every shipment.  

Game Day Goals: Tailgate BBQ Ideas That Bring the Heat It’s game day. The parking lot is packed, the energy is electric, and your crew is hungry. The grill is heating up, the coolers are full, and all eyes are on you to bring the flavor. This is tailgating at its best—high stakes, big fun, and even bigger appetites. Pulling it all off might seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right prep, a solid plan, and a few expert tools, you can stay ahead of the chaos and enjoy the day just as much as your guests. This guide has everything you need to make it happen. From crowd-tested recipes and time-saving tips to pro-level gear you can add to your lineup, we’re sharing the exact game day setup we trust. Let’s get into it.   Table of Contents Game Day Goals: Tailgate BBQ Ideas That Bring the Heat Our Favorite Game Day Recipes Smart Strategies for Game Day Greatness FAQs About Tailgate BBQ Ideas Your Game Plan Starts Here   Our Favorite Game Day Recipes We’ve grilled through every kind of tailgate—from freezing kickoff mornings to packed backyard watch parties—and these are the recipes we keep coming back to. Each one delivers big flavor, easy prep, and reliable results, whether you're cooking on a full setup or a portable grill. These are the dishes we trust to feed a crowd and bring the heat, game after game.   Sliders & Burgers Burgers are a game day staple for a reason—easy to prep, quick to cook, and always a crowd favorite. We lean into bold flavors and top-tier ingredients to make sure each bite delivers. Gruyère Cheeseburger with Red Onion JamSweet-savory onion jam, melted Gruyère, and a perfectly grilled Wagyu patty—this one feels gourmet but plays great in a parking lot. Masala BurgerBold spices meet rich beef for a burger that breaks from tradition and delivers knockout flavor in every bite. French Onion BurgersCaramelized onions, melted Swiss, and a savory jus-inspired sauce turn this into a next-level take on a classic. Sheet Pan BurgersFeeding a group fast? This method gets the job done without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for prepping a batch before guests arrive. Bonus Play: Keep it simple and crowd-pleasing with fresh guac on a seared Wagyu patty. No frills—just flavor—Burger Guacamole Recipe. Pro Tip: Smash-style burgers cook fast and crisp, making them ideal for tailgates where timing and texture matter—Flat Top Animal-Style Wagyu Smash Burgers. > Watch how we feed a crowd fast with this one-pan burger method.   Wagyu Sausages & Dogs Grilled sausages and hot dogs are tailgate essentials—and when you’re cooking with American Wagyu, they’re anything but ordinary. These recipes bring the heat, the toppings, and the tailgate-ready vibes your crew will love. Sausage, Egg & Cheese Breakfast Scramble Hosting an early tailgate? This hearty scramble with sausage, melty cheese, and soft scrambled eggs is the move. Serve it in tortillas for easy, fork-free bites. American Wagyu Hot Dogs with Kimchi Coleslaw Bold, tangy, and totally unexpected. This kimchi coleslaw adds crunch and heat to our rich, flavorful dogs. Sonoran Hot Dogs Wrapped in bacon and loaded with beans, pico, crema, and jalapeños—this is a full-on flavor explosion in every bite. Pro Tip: Toast your buns right on the grill and serve with pickles, chips, and cold drinks for a simple, satisfying setup.> See the best way to grill Wagyu hot dogs—with or without the split. Next-Level BBQ Meats If you're looking to level up your tailgate menu, these mains deliver serious payoff. They're bold, beefy, and designed to turn heads—and once they hit the grill, the crowd usually follows. Wagyu Brisket Tacos with Elotes + Jalapeño RanchTender, smoky brisket tucked into tortillas and topped with street corn and creamy jalapeño ranch. These tacos hit every flavor zone. Grilled PicanhaA Brazilian-style favorite with a rich fat cap and bold, beefy flavor. Easy to grill, slice, and share. Carne Asada with Salsa Bar and TortillasBright, citrus-marinated steak grilled hot and fast. Set up a salsa bar and let guests build their own perfect plate. Pro Tip: Wrap meats in foil and store in an insulated cooler to keep them warm and ready to serve throughout the tailgate. > Want to go all-in on brisket? Watch how we make smoky, sticky burnt ends that disappear fast. Dips, Boards & Bonus Plays Every great tailgate needs a few easy wins—dishes you can prep ahead, serve fast, and count on to disappear quickly. These flavor-packed favorites bring variety, balance, and plenty of bite-sized appeal to your game day lineup. Beef Enchilada Dip Cheesy, beefy, and gone in minutes. This warm dip is built for game day energy and total scoopability. Grilled Sausage Charcuterie Board A savory spread with grilled sausages, bold condiments, and bite-sized extras. It’s the easiest way to upgrade your snack game. Hot Honey Party Ribs Sticky, sweet, and spicy. These ribs are made for sharing and perfect for guests who want something bold and unexpected.   Pro Tip: Offer a mix of hot and cold snacks so everyone has something to grab between plays. > Watch how this beef dip delivers serious Big Game energy. Smart Strategies for Game Day Greatness Game day magic doesn’t just happen—it takes prep, timing, and tools. Here’s how we get everything in place for a stress-free, flavor-packed tailgate that delivers from the first sizzle to the final whistle. Timing Is Everything A little planning goes a long way. Set yourself up for success by getting ahead of the rush. Fire up the grill early to avoid a logjam when guests roll in. Offer easy grab-and-go snacks for early arrivals; think chips, dips, or pre-built sliders. Use a reliable meat thermometer to hit perfect doneness every time. Pro Tip: Get the Superfast Thermometer. No guessing, just dialed-in doneness.   Keep It Clean and Cool Food safety and clean-up strategy are part of what separates casual cooks from seasoned pros. Use a dedicated cooler for drinks only to reduce cross-contamination and speed up access. Separate raw and cooked items in labeled foil trays to stay organized. Pack wipes, hand sanitizer, paper towels, and a trash bag system to keep your space fresh and functional. Pro Tip: Bring extra zip-top bags and foil for easy leftovers or late-game refills.   Pack Like a Pro You don’t need a full kitchen to run a solid tailgate—just the essentials and a few expert-approved upgrades. Gear checklist: grill, fuel, folding table, cooler, chairs, and food-safe containers. Upgrade your cooking tools with: Smithey Mighty Spatula – tough, reliable, and built for heavy lifting. Superfast Thermometer – for fast, accurate temp checks. SRF x Hedley & Bennett Apron – durable, sharp-looking, and made for serious grillers. Bonus: Don’t forget your speaker; pre-game energy starts with the right playlist.   Build a Smarter Game Day Menu  The right ingredients make all the difference. These SRF picks are bold, fast, and built for high-heat grilling. Grilling Enthusiast Box A pre-curated selection of SRF favorites—perfect for seasoned grillers or first-time tailgate hosts. SRF Bestsellers Tried, tested, and loved by our customers. These cuts are crowd-approved and ready to impress. American Wagyu Burgers Juicy, rich, and ready in minutes. A no-fail favorite for any grill setup. Spicy Beef Sausages These bring bold heat and deep flavor—easy to grill, slice, or serve straight off the flame. Want even more pro tips? Check out our full Tailgate Tips & Tricks guide.   "OMG. I marinate these for 24 hours in my secret “tailgate “ marinade and then cook on small grill in stadium parking lot. As tender and juicy and flavorful as ANY top steakhouse!! Incredible!" - Douglas L., Verified Buyer  Frequently Asked Questions about Tailgate BBQ Ideas What is the best food to grill at the tailgate?  Sliders, sausages, tacos, and skewers are your MVPs — they cook fast, serve easy, and pack big flavor into every bite. The key is choosing items that don’t need a lot of fuss or grill time. Think American Wagyu burgers, spicy sausages, or marinated carne asada you can slice and serve on the spot. Bonus points for anything that fits in a tortilla or on a bun — easy to eat, no plate required What is a good tailgate menu? Start with one or two standout mains — like juicy burgers, spicy sausages, or bold cuts like tri tip or picanha — then build out your lineup with crowd-pleasing sides, easy dips, and plenty of cold drinks. Add-ins like guacamole, street corn, or a hot queso dip bring extra energy without extra work. The best menus are simple, satisfying, and easy to serve up hot off the grill. How do you throw an awesome tailgate party? It all comes down to prep and timing. Pack your gear the night before — grill, fuel, tools, cooler, chairs — and marinate or pre-portion anything you can ahead of time. Arrive early to claim your spot and fire up the grill. Keep ready-to-eat snacks on hand for early arrivers, and make sure drinks stay cold and the food keeps coming. A great tailgate runs smooth, smells amazing, and feeds everyone like they’re VIP What can I BBQ instead of burgers and dogs? Try Grilled Picanha, Carne Asada, or Flank Steak with Pesto Potatoes for bold flavors that go beyond the usual lineup. These cuts cook hot and fast, slice beautifully for sharing, and bring a steakhouse-level experience to your tailgate. Want to mix it up even more? Build a taco bar with marinated steak or serve thin-sliced picanha with chimichurri and grilled veggies on the side. Big flavor, minimal fuss — that's the goal. Your Game Plan Starts Here Ready to own game day? From premium cuts to must-have gear, everything you need to grill like a pro is just a click away. Let’s get your tailgate stocked and fired up. Stock Up for Game Day  Fuel your feast with top-quality American Wagyu beef, sausages, and more. Don’t wait—order now to guarantee fresh delivery before kickoff.Shop Game Day Must-Haves   Master the Grill Want to choose the right cut for your grill? Our guide to the best steaks for grilling breaks it all down so you cook with confidence every time.Discover the Best Cuts for Grilling   Explore Grilling Essentials Master the basics and beyond with our expert guide. Learn what gear and techniques make all the difference for perfect results every time.Read Grilling Essentials    

Wagyu vs. Kobe: What’s the Difference? In the world of premium beef, the terms Wagyu and Kobe cause excitement and confusion. Both types of beef are synonymous with luxurious marbling, distinct flavor and buttery tenderness. Although these two names are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not the same. In fact, all Kobe is Wagyu, but not all Wagyu is Kobe. What exactly makes each different? Here’s a breakdown. Table of Contents  What is Wagyu Beef? What is Kobe Beef?  How are Wagyu and Kobe Beef Similar?  What are the Key Differences Between Wagyu and Kobe? Is Kobe the Best Wagyu in Japan? What are the Different Types of Wagyu Beef? Can You Get Real Kobe Beef in the U.S.? What is American Wagyu Beef?  American Wagyu vs. Japanese Wagyu Is American Wagyu Real Wagyu? Final Thoughts   What is Wagyu Beef? Wagyu is a famous breed of cattle from Japan. Wagyu translates to “Japanese cow” (wa = Japanese, gyu = cow) a term that refers to all Japanese beef cattle. Wagyu cattle were used for farm and agricultural work because of their high level of endurance. This ability to work hard was due to Wagyu’s high level of intramuscular fat cells, the same characteristic that produced rich and tender beef.   What is Kobe Beef? Kobe beef is a specific type of Wagyu born, raised and processed in the Hyōgo prefecture in Japan, near the city of Kobe. The Kobe standards require the cattle is from the Tajima bloodline and is raised under strict methods that impart a unique flavor. Only about 3,000 head of cattle per year qualify as true Kobe beef. So, by definition, all Kobe beef is Wagyu, but not all Wagyu beef is Kobe.   How are Wagyu and Kobe Beef Similar? Wagyu and Kobe are types of Japanese beef that are derived from a specific breed of Japanese cattle. Both are known for extremely high amount of marbling, distinctive flavor and melt-in-the-mouth texture. This all starts with the proper genetics, but the finished quality of the beef is fostered though careful care and feeding. Authentic Wagyu and Kobe are raised carefully in low-stress conditions by specialty breeders. Each animal receives individualized attention and is fed a carefully planned diet. Young cows start with organic rice straw and move to nutrient rich grains such as corn, barley, rice bran and gluten feed to develop marbling and flavor.      What are the Key Differences between Wagyu and Kobe? The primary difference between these two types of beef is location. Kobe beef cattle must be born, raised, fed and slaughtered within the Hyogo prefecture near Kobe. Kobe beef is sourced from a Tajima or Tajiri strain of Wagyu. Hypothetically, start with two Wagyu animals with identical Tajima bloodlines. Raise one in Hyogo and the other in Montana using the same precise techniques and protocols required by the Kobe Beef Association. After the animals mature and are processed, the beef from Hyogo prefecture is called Kobe and the beef in Montana is Wagyu. Here’s a comparison: FEATURE WAGYU KOBE  Origin Japan, USA, Australia  Hyogo Prefecture, Japan  Breed  Any of the 4 Wagyu Breeds Purebred Tajima (Black) Availability  Widely Available  Rare and limited supply  Price  Premium Ultra-premium  Regulation  Less regulated outside Japan Strictly monitored and verified      Is Kobe the Best Wagyu in Japan? Kobe is arguably the most recognized breed of Wagyu but there are other legendary breeds of Wagyu throughout Japan. These include Matsusaka beef from the Mie prefecture and Ohmi beef from the Shiga prefecture. Each strain of Wagyu possesses unique characteristics which influence their flavor profiles. The location is thought to impact the quality and flavor of the beef, much like terroir is said to influence the finished quality of a wine. Each type of Wagyu has a distinct flavor and ultimately the “best beef” is based on personal taste and preference.   What are the Different Types of Wagyu Beef? Within the broad category of Wagyu beef there are four different breeds, each with its own unique qualities. Japanese Black (Kuroge): Possesses the most marbling of the four breeds. The beef is rich, butter with deep umami flavor and aroma. About 90% of all Wagyu comes from Japanese Black animals including all Kobe, Matsusaka and Ohmi beef. Japanese Brown (Akage): Produces beef that is leaner with a milder flavor profile. The result is an eating experience that is lighter than other Wagyu.  Also known as Kumamoto or Red Wagyu. Japanese Shorthorn (Nihon Tankaku): A leaner breed with a distinct flavor that is described as savory and slightly nutty. Primarily raised in Northern Japan. Japanese Polled (Mukaku): The least common of the four breeds, Japanese Polled Wagyu is lean with a rich umami flavor and firmer texture.   Can You Get Real Kobe Beef in the U.S.? It is possible to purchase authentic Kobe beef in the United States, but the quantity of genuine Kobe is very limited. Since the total production of Kobe is so low, very little is available for import. True Kobe beef can be purchased from select high end retail shops, online retailers and exclusive restaurants. Real Kobe beef comes with documentation, so request the paperwork to ensure you’re purchasing bona fide Kobe. What is American Wagyu Beef? When purebred Wagyu are crossbred with other non-Wagyu cattle breeds, it yields American Wagyu which features rich marbling and the traditional beef flavor preferred by American palates. "It has the richness of Japanese beef with lots of marbling, but the flavor is more akin to what we're used to in America. You can give me a pound of the best Wagyu from Japan, or a pound of this and I'll choose Snake River Farms every time."  - Chef Wolfgang Puck    Want to Try American Wagyu for yourself? Shop Snake River Farms American Wagyu beef and discover bold flavor with rich, buttery marbling.  American Wagyu vs. Japanese Wagyu The difference between American Wagyu and Japanese Wagyu is the amount of marbling and flavor profiles. Japanese Wagyu beef has extremely high levels of fat marbling, leading to a very rich flavor best enjoyed in small portions. Japanese Wagyu is often thinly sliced and served in yakiniku (grilled) or shabu-shabu (hot pot) dishes for this reason. American Wagyu beef is the result of crossbreeding traditional beef cattle with purebred Wagyu. The result is a perfect blend of Wagyu’s buttery marbling and the robust beef flavor that American beef is known for. World class chefs consider it is the best of both worlds.   Is American Wagyu Real Wagyu? American Wagyu is real form of Wagyu but is the result of crossbreeding purebred Japanese Wagyu with other Continental cattle breeds. It is not 100% pure Wagyu but provides a higher level of marbling than USDA Prime (the highest level of marbling recognized on the U.S. scale) as well as the buttery, umami flavor and aroma associated with purebred Wagyu.   Final Thoughts The difference between Wagyu and Kobe comes down to specificity and standards. The analogy of Champagne and sparkling wine is often used. Think of Wagyu as the broader category—like sparkling wine—and Kobe as a prestigious subcategory, akin to Champagne. Both are good quality, but Champagne is more highly regarded and carries a premium price. Whether you’re a steak connoisseur or simply a curious carnivore, understanding the Wagyu vs. Kobe distinction helps you shop smarter, order wiser, and fully appreciate the work behind every delicious bite. Ready to Taste the Difference? Explore our full selection of American Wagyu beef — from buttery-smooth steaks to richly marbled roasts — and experience the best of both worlds.     Author Bio Dave Yasuda has worked with Snake River Farms for over 12 years, cooking virtually every product we sell. He has prepared SRF products for photoshoots, food festivals, company events, and customers. A skilled home cook, Dave has collaborated in the kitchen with award-winning chefs, recipe developers, and content creators to enhance his culinary skills. He has also been a featured guest on numerous food-centric podcasts, including Bon Appetit’s “Dinner SOS” hosted by Chris Morocco.

The Best Cuts of Steak for Grilling: A Complete Guide Outdoor cooking is one of the best things about summer, but it’s not easy choosing the best steak to throw on the grill. There are so many different cuts to choose from, how do you know which steak will deliver the most flavor, tenderness and make the biggest impression? Here’s a guide to the world of steaks so you can choose the best cuts for grilling.Any steak can be cooked on a grill, but here are two factors that make some cuts perform better than others. 1. Marbling Choose a steak with generous marbling. Marbling, or intramuscular fat, provides flavor, creates a juicier steak, adds tenderness and promotes even cooking on the grill. Learn more about marbling → 2. Thickness A thicker steak distributes the heat and cooks more evenly. A thin steak may cook too fast on a hot grill. Choose steaks that are at least 1 inch thick. For best results use steaks that are 1½ inches thick. Why steak thickness matters → Table of Contents  What Makes a Great Grilling Steak Which Cut of Steak is Best for Grilling What are the Best Butcher’s Cuts for Grilling What's the Most Tender Steak to Grill Quick Decision Guide  Tips for Grilling the Perfect Steak  Which Cut of Steak is Best for Grilling? The best steak cut for grilling is a personal choice. What do you want the most from a steak? Factors to consider are tenderness, flavor and value. Your steak choice will vary based on the occasion or desired dining experience. The steak for an impromptu Tuesday night cookout will be much different than the one for your dad’s birthday celebration. Here are five top contenders for steaks to grill. Each of these are well-known cuts and perform well on a charcoal or gas grill. Ribeye – Ranked the number one steak by beef aficionados due to its intense marbling and rich beefy flavor. The high amount of intramuscular fat creates a tender, juicy and savory steak. New York Strip – Well marbled, but leaner than a ribeye. A firm, moderately tender texture and deep beef flavor. It is easy to trim and slice since it does not have large pockets of fat. Filet Mignon – The most tender of all steaks with a buttery texture. Lightly marbled with a mild flavor. Porterhouse  – Two steaks in one:  a tender filet mignon and a robust New York strip separated by a T-shaped bone. Sirloin – A lean steak with satisfying beef flavor and a pleasing firm bite. A popular cut that represents excellent value. Pro Tip: For a bold, juicy grill favorite, start with a well-marbled American Wagyu Ribeye. Want a recipe to match? Try our Cowboy Steak with Blistered Corn and Tomatoes. Grill-Ready Idea: Fire up a New York Strip and turn it into a show-stopping sandwich with this Grilled NY Strip with Goat Cheese & Pesto.   What are the Best Butcher’s Cuts for Grilling? Butcher’s cuts are the steaks without the pedigree of the popular, and higher priced, steakhouse favorites. These cuts are sourced from multiple locations and possess unique flavors and textures that are enhanced when cooked on a grill. Outside Skirt Steak – This steak is the diaphragm muscle, which receives a lot of exercise and creates deep flavor. A surprisingly marbled cut that is exceptionally rich and buttery. It has a thick, strong grain, so cutting against the grain is critical for a tender bite. Bavette – A cut from the bottom sirloin, it’s also known as the “flap meat”. It has a thick grain with a loose texture which crisps up beautifully on the grill. The flavor is very beefy with a hint of minerality. Picanha – The foundation of Brazilian style, this triangular shaped cut is juicy, flavorful with a firm texture. Also known as the sirloin cap and the coulotte, this is a large cut that can be cut into steaks or grilled as one piece. Hanger Steak – A long, coarse grained cut from the plate primal. Moderate marbling adds juiciness while the overall flavor profile is intensely beef-forward with a subtle mineral edge. Flank Steak – A favorite steak with moderate marbling, bold beef essence and a tender bite when cut against the grain.   Pro Tip: Curious about lesser-known cuts? Explore our guide to Underrated Butcher’s Cuts and try something new on the grill.Try This: Grilled Hanger Steak shines with a punchy chimichurri recipe, or make your next taco night legendary with our Flank Steak with Confetti Corn.   What's the Most Tender Steak to Grill If your top priority is melt-in-your-mouth texture, filet mignon is the most tender steak you can grill. Cut from the psoas major, a non-weight-bearing muscle, it’s naturally soft and buttery even without extensive marbling. Take one bite of filet mignon and you’ll know immediately this is a very tender steak. It’s not just your senses, but it is scientifically proven to be the most tender of all steaks using the shear force test. Using this objective method, here is a list of the most tender steaks as identified by meat scientists: Filet Mignon – The most tender steak you can grill, filet mignon delivers a smooth, buttery bite with subtle flavor and an elegant finish. Flat Iron – Well marbled and juicy with excellent beefiness, this steak is best served medium rare to medium, but remains flavorful when cooked to higher temperatures. Cap of Ribeye Steak – Sometimes called “the tastiest cut on the cow” this legendary cut is beautifully marbled, juicy and delicious. Zabuton – A richly marbled cut from the chuck (shoulder) with a buttery texture and robust flavor. It’s also known as the Denver steak. Teres Major – Another gem from the chuck, this is also known as the shoulder tender. Shaped like a small tenderloin, it is packed with deep, savory richness. Tenderness Tip: Filet Mignon is the king of tenderness—but flat iron and Zabuton offer amazing texture at a great value.Try This: Go beyond classic with these Kalbi-Style Tenderloin Kebabs. Quick Decision Guide Can’t decide? Here’s a quick reference to help you pick the perfect steak based on what matters most to you.   Beef Flavor vs. Tenderness If You Want...  Choose...  Bold Beef Flavor  Ribeye, Skirt, Hanger  Maximum Tenderness Filet Mignon, Flat Iron  Cooking Style Cooking Method Best Cut   Quick Sear Ribeye, Strip, Skirt Reverse Sear Thick Ribeye, Porterhouse Marinate & Slice Flank, Skirt, Hanger, Sirloin  Budget Price Point Recommended Cuts   Premium Picks  Filet Mignon, Ribeye, Porterhouse  Great Value Flat Iron, Sirloin, Denver    Pro Tip: Can’t decide? Try multiple cuts with one of our SRF Boxes. They’re curated for variety, value, and unforgettable grill nights.   Tips for Grilling the Perfect Steak Let it Rest Before and After — Bring steak to room temp before grilling. After grilling, rest it 5-10 minutes to retain juices. Season Simply — Salt and pepper go a long way. Let the beef shine. Use High Heat — Get your grill hot (450°F+) to sear and lock in flavor. Don’t Overcook — Use a meat thermometer: Rare: 120-125°F  |  Medium-rare: 130-135°F  |  Medium: 140-145°F Slice Against the Grain — Especially important for flank, skirt, and hanger cuts. Slicing against the grain shortens muscle fibers, making the bite more tender.   More Ways to Master the Grill: Get step-by-step techniques and recipes in our Cooking Guides. Final Thoughts  Whether you're grilling up a celebration-worthy porterhouse or slicing marinated skirt steak for tacos, the right cut makes all the difference. Ribeye, filet mignon, and strip steaks consistently top the charts for their flavor and grill-worthiness, while lesser-known options like flat iron and Denver steak offer surprising tenderness at a great value. The key is to match the cut to your taste preferences, cooking method, and budget. With this complete guide in hand, you’re ready to light the fire and grill the perfect steak every time.       Author Bio Dave Yasuda has worked with Snake River Farms for over 12 years, cooking virtually every product we sell. He has prepared SRF products for photoshoots, food festivals, company events, and customers. A skilled home cook, Dave has collaborated in the kitchen with award-winning chefs, recipe developers, and content creators to enhance his culinary skills. He has also been a featured guest on numerous food-centric podcasts, including Bon Appetit’s “Dinner SOS” hosted by Chris Morocco.

Zest Up Your Grill Game: Citrus Marinade for Steak & More Have you ever cooked a beautiful steak, only to feel like something’s missing? You nailed the temperature. The crust looks perfect. But maybe you’re craving a little extra dimension — something to lift and highlight the natural richness of the meat. At Snake River Farms, we know our American Wagyu and Kurobuta pork don’t need a marinade to taste incredible. These cuts are richly marbled and packed with flavor straight out of the package. But when you want to add a fresh twist or a seasonal spin, citrus is one of our favorite ways to enhance what’s already there — not mask it. A splash of lemon juice, a spoonful of zest, even grilled citrus slices can bring unexpected brightness that complements the deep, savory profile of our meats. To help you bring this technique into your own kitchen, we teamed up with our go-to grill masters Adam McKenzie and Chad Montano to share expert tips, recipes, and pairings that’ll give your steak night a fresh upgrade.   Why Use Citrus in Steak Marinades? Citrus has long been a secret weapon in kitchens around the world. Its acidity adds balance and brightness, while the zest and juice infuse dishes with layered flavor. From lemons to blood oranges, each fruit brings its own personality to the plate.   "We’ve started using citrus juice in compound butter or mixing it with Japanese barbecue sauce for a glaze," says Adam McKenzie, cookbook author and grill expert. "It brings a balance that enhances without overpowering."   Ready to try it? Marinate our Kurobuta Pork Tenderloin and fire up the grill.    Adam McKenzie @ThisJewCanQue Adam lives in Denver, Colorado, where he grills year-round on his Traeger's. He’s a dad to 3-year-old twins, a K-8 STEM teacher and a cookbook author who’s all about making approachable meals. His backyard is his test kitchen where citrus plays a starring role.     Selecting the Right Citrus Not all citrus is created equal. Some varieties bring intense acidity, while others offer floral sweetness or a splash of color that elevates your presentation. "Meyer lemons have that perfect mix of tart and sweet, which is great in a compound butter," Adam explains. "Blood oranges add color and depth to sauces and glazes, and they look amazing in photos." Here are a few of our favorite citrus options for steak marinades: Lemon: Classic and versatile, adds sharp acidity Lime: Punchy and bold, perfect for carne asada or tacos Orange: Slightly sweet, pairs beautifully with pork and beef Grapefruit: Bittersweet and complex Meyer lemon: Milder and floral Blood orange: Visually stunning with deep, rich flavor   When shopping for citrus, Adam recommends choosing fruit that feels heavy for its size. That usually means it’s juicy. Bright, smooth skin is another good indicator of freshness. Chad suggests visiting farmers markets or local shops where produce turnover is high and quality is top-notch. How Citrus Tenderizes Steak So how exactly does citrus interact with steak? It’s all about the acid. The natural acidity in citrus juice can help break down muscle fibers, which is useful when working with tougher cuts. But with our tender American Wagyu, citrus is less about tenderizing and more about balance. How long should you marinate steak in citrus? Thin cuts like skirt or flank steak: 30 minutes to 2 hours Thicker cuts like ribeye or NY strip: 2 to 4 hours Marinating too long can actually toughen the surface or start to "cook" the meat with acid. We recommend using citrus juice as part of a balanced marinade that includes fat (like olive oil) and seasoning (like herbs, spices, and salt). For our more luxurious cuts, try a quick citrus glaze or compound butter right before serving instead of a full marinade. Pro Tips from Team SRF We turned to two of our favorite flavor experts for real-life ways to use citrus in your grill game. Chad Montano and Adam McKenzie are long-time friends of SRF, and they’ve got citrus tricks that are easy to try and big on flavor. To turn up the flavor on this guide, we called in two of our favorite culinary pros. Chad Montano and Adam McKenzie — longtime SRF collaborators — shared their go-to ways to make citrus the star of your next grilling session. Their tips are simple, bold, and built for big flavor.   Start Simple  If you’re new to cooking with citrus, keep it easy. "Keep a few lemons and limes in the fridge and add a little at a time," Adam says. "You’ll find your groove fast."Start by adding lemon juice to your marinade or squeezing lime over steak tacos. A touch of orange zest in a vinaigrette goes a long way.   Grill the Citrus  Here’s a game-changer from Chad Montano, professional food photographer and grill fanatic: "Cut a lemon in half, season with olive oil and salt, then sear it on a hot grill. It breaks down the fruit, brings out the sweetness, and adds a smoky note." Use the grilled juice in marinades, salsas, and glazes. It adds an extra layer of flavor you can’t get from raw juice alone. Use the Whole Fruit  Juice is great, but don’t stop there. Zest brings concentrated oils and intense aroma. Even grilled slices can be served alongside for visual appeal and added punch.   "I’m half Mexican so limes are a big part of my cooking," Chad shares. "For a good Mexican marinade, I like to incorporate lime juice and zest."   Whether you’re grilling flank steak for tacos or searing a thick-cut filet, citrus provides the contrast that makes bold beef flavors pop.   Chad Montano @BrieWilly Chad is a professional food and lifestyle photographer from San Diego, California. He’s been cooking since he was a kid inspired by his grandma’s home-cooked meals. He combines his two passions to create high-quality content for restaurants and brands in the food industry.       Pair It with Premium Cuts  Our American Wagyu and Kurobuta pork are rich and buttery. A citrus marinade or glaze complements that richness perfectly without taking anything away.   "A family favorite is SRF Kurobuta pork tenderloin marinated with pureed local peaches, orange juice and zest, and a little Japanese BBQ sauce," Adam says. "Serve it with grilled peach salsa, lime juice, red onion and cilantro. Start the pork low and slow, then do a quick sear on high heat."   Try these recipes for more inspiration:   Grilled NY Strip Steak with Citrus Caper Herb Sauce Tequila Lime Flank Steak Tacos How to Make the Best Carne Asada Crispy Smoked Kurobuta Pork Belly Tacos with Serrano-Orange Glaze Grilled Pork Belly Skewers with Chili Lime Salt          Brighten Up Your Grill Routine Citrus isn’t about covering up flavors. It’s about adding brightness, depth, and a touch of surprise to what’s already excellent. At Snake River Farms, we believe in making every meal extraordinary. Adding citrus to your culinary toolkit is one of the easiest ways to elevate the experience — whether you’re grilling for the family or hosting a summer dinner party. So go ahead. Grab a few lemons, fire up the grill, and let your steak soak up the sunshine. Simple Steak Marinade  This quick, citrus-forward marinade adds bright, aromatic depth to SRF beef. Try swapping in ½ tablespoon of dried rosemary if fresh isn’t on hand. For an extra pop of flavor and presentation, add thin lemon slices to the marinade—and save a few to garnish the finished steak.   INGREDIENTS ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1½ tablespoons kosher salt 2 teaspoons black pepper   INSTRUCTIONS Combine all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl. Transfer to a plastic bag or shallow container and marinate steaks. Marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 12 hours, then cook using your favorite method.   Ready to try it? Marinate our American Wagyu Outside Skirt Steak and fire up the grill.     Ready to Taste the Difference? Explore our selection of American Wagyu steaks and Kurobuta pork, then try your own spin on a citrus glaze or marinade. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself, it’s the kind of upgrade you’ll taste in every bite.   Need help picking the perfect cut? Our team is always here to help. Reach out or check out our full recipe library for more ideas.    

Girls Night Dinner Ideas: A Skewer Party with Bold Summer Flavors Summer is the perfect time to gather your friends, open a bottle of wine, and enjoy a vibrant, unfussy dinner outdoors. If you’re looking for girls night dinner ideas that feel elevated but effortless, this is one of our favorites: grilled Wagyu skewers, fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, and mezze-style sides that are as pretty as they are delicious. We teamed up with Chef Sarah Kelly—owner of White Rabbit in Boise and a regular contributor to the SRF recipe collection—to build a colorful summer menu ideal for a relaxed evening with friends. Think herb-marinated American Wagyu, easy-prep sauces, and grilled flatbread that turns into the perfect edible utensil. This is girls night done right.   The Vibe: Laid-Back, Colorful, and Wine-Friendly This isn’t a formal dinner party—it’s a flavorful, free-flowing spread that lends itself to grazing and good conversation. Here’s how to set the mood: A casual outdoor setup with string lights or candles Mezze-style serving platters for easy sharing Crisp rosé, sparkling water, and fresh herbs as garnish Music that sets the tone—think upbeat, relaxed, and summery   Want to elevate the wine experience? Check out our guides on how to select the best wine with steak and how to pair salami and wine for tips that pair beautifully with this girls night menu. A skewer party brings color and variety to the table without a lot of prep. Let guests build their plates, pour a glass, and enjoy the moment.   Summer Skewer Party Menu for Girls Night This menu serves 6–8 and focuses on variety, fresh herbs, and high-quality ingredients. Use it as a full dinner party plan or a flexible foundation you can modify based on what’s in season.Here’s what’s on the menu: Main: SRF Beef Tenderloin and Veggie Kebabs with an Herby Marinade Sides: Marinated Feta | Grilled Caesar Salad Dessert: Cornmeal Blueberry Shortcake with Whipped Cream and Blueberry Compote Herb-Marinated American Wagyu Tenderloin and Veggie Skewers Other countries and cultures refer to meat on a stick as kabobs, kebabs, brochettes, souvlaki, or skewers, but I just call it “delicious.” Snake River Farms tenderloin pieces are the featured beef here. The marinade contains fresh herbs and a wealth of spices to add Mediterranean flavors to the tender American Wagyu beef. Choose vegetables that are in season. Red onion, poblano peppers, pineapple, summer squash and heirloom tomatoes are good choices, along with pretty peaches and plums for color and sweetness. Why it works: Tenderloin tips are buttery-soft and cook quickly on the grill. A bright, herb-packed marinade adds bold flavor and complements grilled vegetables beautifully. KEY INGREDIENTS: 1–2 packs SRF American Wagyu Tenderloin Pieces 2 poblano peppers, sliced 1 red onion, quartered 2 yellow squash, sliced 1 cup cherry tomatoes 1 cup pineapple chunks Skewers (wooden or metal)   FOR THE MARINADE: 1 bunch cilantro 1 bunch parsley ½ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 garlic clove 1 teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon cardamom Salt to taste   INSTRUCTIONS: Blend marinade ingredients until smooth. Reserve ¼ cup for serving. Toss tenderloin pieces in remaining marinade. Cover and chill at least 1 hour. Thread beef and veggies onto separate skewers. Grill beef skewers over medium-high heat, about 2–3 minutes per side. Grill veggie skewers until tender and lightly charred. Serve with extra sauce for dipping.   Get the full recipe here   Pro Tip: Separate skewers for beef and veggies prevent overcooking and let you manage doneness easily.   Herby marinade & dipping Sauce This marinade is inspired by zhoug, a spicy Mediterranean condiment. It also doubles as a dipping sauce for the skewers. Make this first. Shortcut: Purchase chili garlic crunch and mix with olive oil for a quick marinade. Why it works: Zhoug brings zesty heat and herbal depth to any grilled dish. It’s great as both a marinade and a dipping sauce.   KEY INGREDIENTS: 2 bunches cilantro 1 bunch parsley 1 bunch basil 1 bunch chive 2 jalapeños, seeds removed 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1½ teaspoons ground cumin 1½ teaspoons ground coriander 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes ½ cup fresh lemon juice (3 to 4 lemons) 2 cups extra virgin olive oil, divided   INSTRUCTIONS: Place all ingredients and 1 cup of the olive oil in a food blender. Reserve a few sprigs of basil and cilantro for garnish. Blend on medium and work your blender up to high speed. Stop and push herbs down to mix all ingredients. Continue the blend/push cycle until all ingredients are incorporated for a pesto-like consistency. Don’t over mix. Remove half of the blended sauce from the blender and place in a serving bowl. This is your finished sauce. Add the remaining cup of olive oil to the sauce in the blender. Blend on high until incorporated. This is your marinade for the vegetables and the meat.   Pro Tip: Use leftovers on eggs, sandwiches, or grilled fish—it’s endlessly versatile.       Marinated Feta Aromatics are quickly roasted to bring out their flavor and added to olive oil to create a rich marinade for salty feta cheese. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results. Why it works: Feta soaks up aromatic oil like a sponge. It’s creamy, salty, and the easiest make-ahead snack for any party board.   KEY INGREDIENTS: 1 pound block feta, cut into large cubes 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 1 lemon, zested into strips using a peeler 3 bay leaves 1 tablespoon crushed red chili flakes 1 cup extra virgin olive oil    INSTRUCTIONS:  Place a small pan on high on the stove top. When hot, add the garlic to the dry pan and let it slightly char. Turn heat to low. Add the lemon strips and bay leaves and let cook for 30 seconds or so to release some flavor. Turn the heat off and add the chili flakes and olive oil. Cube the feta block and place in a container. Pour the oil mixture on top of the feta. Let sit for at least 1 hour or in the fridge overnight. When ready to use, pull from the fridge 1 hour prior to serving so the oil comes to room temperature.  Pro Tip: Serve with warm flatbread or crusty sourdough to soak up the infused oil.   Grilled Caesar Salad Quickly searing the half heads of romaine on the grill adds a hint of char and bitterness to this salad. For the grilled lettuce, I suggest romaine but substitute any hearty green such as kale, treviso or escarole.   Why it works: Grilling romaine adds smoky depth. The creamy, anchovy-forward Caesar dressing and pistachios make it rich, salty, and unforgettable.   KEY INGREDIENTS:  4 to 6 heads baby romaine, halved with root piece intact ¼ cup shelled pistachios, chopped  DRESSING INGREDIENTS: ¾ cup grated parmesan, divided 1 cup mayonnaise ½ cup pitted Castelvetrano olives 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard  3 anchovy filets, rinsed  ¼ cup lemon juice  1 teaspoon salt  1 teaspoon black pepper  3 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped 1 cup extra virgin olive oil  1 bunch parsley, divided   INSTRUCTIONS:  Reserve ¼ cup parmesan and a few parsley sprigs for garnish. Place the remaining ingredients, except the olive oil, in a blender. Blend on medium and slowly add the oil. Do not blend too long or the mayonnaise will separate. This will take about 1 minute. The dressing should be creamy and coat the back of a spoon. If it is too thick, add a bit more lemon juice or a few tablespoons of water. This will be more dressing than needed for the salad. Serve the remaining dressing as a sauce on your skewer platter. Rub the halved romaine pieces with a small amount of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill flat side down on a medium-to-high grill just long enough to get a slight char. Do not cook too long or the greens will wilt and turn soft. Arrange the grilled lettuce on a platter. Drizzle dressing on top and garnish with parmesan, pistachio and fresh parsley. Pro Tip: Grill lemons alongside the romaine and squeeze them over before serving for extra zing.   Cornmeal Blueberry Shortcake with Whipped Cream There are three components to this shortcake — the cake, blueberry compote and whipped cream. Make the compote and whip the cream the day before to save time. You’ll be ready to finish the dessert quickly when it’s time to serve. Use a 10 inch cast iron pan for a shortcake with nice crispy edges. Why it works: This rustic shortcake balances the crunch of cornmeal with juicy summer blueberries. It’s unfussy and perfect with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.   KEY INGREDIENTS: 1¼ cup all-purpose flour, plus 1 tablespoon  ¾ cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling  ½ cup cornmeal  1½ teaspoons kosher salt  1 teaspoon baking powder  10 tablespoons melted unsalted butter  1 cup sour cream  1 lemon, zested  2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups blueberries, divided INSTRUCTIONS:  Heat the oven to 350°F.  Place the cast iron skillet in the oven.  You can make the dough in a mixer or stir by hand. Place all the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl.  In a separate container, add the wet ingredients (except the melted butter) and stir.  Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir until semi incorporated. Reserve 1 tablespoon butter to coat the skillet. Add the remaining melted butter to the batter. Mix until all ingredients are just incorporated. Do not over mix.  In a separate bowl, mix the blueberries with the tablespoon of reserved flour.  Remove the skillet from the oven and place the reserved tablespoon of butter in the hot pan, moving it around to coat the bottom and sides.  Add ⅔ of the dough to the hot buttered skillet. Scatter 1 cup of the blueberries on top. 9. Dollop the rest of the dough over the skillet ingredients, then finish with the remaining blueberries.  Sprinkle with the reserved 2 tablespoons sugar.  Put the filled skillet back in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.  Let cool slightly. Top with the compote and serve with whipped cream.   Whipped Cream  This cream can be made in advance, up to two days in the fridge without falling if done properly. The secret is using a chilled mixing bowl, keeping the cream cold and whipping to stiff peaks. KEY INGREDIENTS: 1½ cups cold heavy cream  2 teaspoons vanilla extract  1½ tablespoons powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting the cake   INSTRUCTIONS:  Chill a mixing bowl and mixer attachments in the freezer for 10 minutes. Place all ingredients in the cold bowl and whisk until stiff peaks form.     Blueberry Compote    KEY INGREDIENTS:  2 cups blueberries  1 lemon, zested and juiced  ½ cup sugar   INSTRUCTIONS:  Place all ingredients in a small sauce pot and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely before serving. This is best made the day before and will thicken as it cools.  Pro Tip: Make the compote and whipped cream a day ahead to keep things stress-free. Ready to Host Your Own Girls Night? Now’s the time to plan something special. Whether you’re setting the table under the stars or laying out a graze board by candlelight, these girls night dinner ideas are all about making moments together more meaningful—and more delicious. Stock up on Snake River Farms American Wagyu Tenderloin for your next gathering, and explore more warm-weather inspiration below: Take It Outside: 3 Perfect Backyard Party MenusCasual, creative, and crowd-pleasing, these seasonal menus make outdoor entertaining simple and stylish. Backwoods Bar: A Portable, Packable Cocktail SetupFor your friends who love a well-crafted drink in the wild. Perfect for cabins, patios, or anywhere in between. How to Select the Best Wine With SteakWhether you’re pouring red, rosé, or sparkling, this guide takes the guesswork out of pairing wine with Wagyu. How to Pair Salami and WineAn easy, elevated pairing guide for your charcuterie board or aperitivo hour.  

Summer Dinner Party: Guys Night In with Snake River Farms There’s something special about calling the guys over, firing up the grill, and making an evening out of great food, good bourbon, and better company. This is my go-to way to host a no-fuss, high-reward summer dinner party—and with Snake River Farms American Wagyu on the grill, it always turns into something epic. If you’ve ever wondered what to serve for a solid Guys Night In, this is it: Cowboy Steaks reverse-seared to perfection, bold sides, and a dessert that hits the spot without being fussy. Everything’s easy to prep and even easier to devour.   The Vibe: Laid-Back, Full-Flavored, All Fire When I’m hosting the guys, I keep the setup simple: Cold drinks in a cooler, not a bar cart Classic rock or country on the playlist Everything served family-style right off the grill or skillet One unforgettable main course: thick, juicy, show-stopping Cowboy Steaks The secret weapon? High-quality American Wagyu beef from Snake River Farms. It does 90% of the work—rich flavor, beautiful marbling, and that wow factor that always gets a “Dude, where did you get this?” reaction. If you want to elevate the drink setup, check out our Backwoods Bar ideas—a laid-back, rugged way to serve drinks without overthinking it.     Guys Night In Menu for a Summer Dinner Party This dinner party menu serves 6–8 and balances crowd-pleasing flavors with minimal prep. It’s built around Cowboy Steaks, with sides that hold their own and a cast iron dessert that brings it all home.   "For the person who has everything on your gift list.. SRF  Wagyu Cowboy Steak will delight and impress. My friend was absolutely delighted! Thank you!" - Debi P., verified buyer   Reverse Seared Cowboy Steaks with Chimichurri Why it works: The SRF Gold® Cowboy Steak is thick, juicy, and dramatic—in the best way. Reverse searing delivers consistent doneness and a steakhouse-style crust.   KEY INGREDIENTS: 2 SRF Gold® Cowboy Steaks (2.5 lbs each) Kosher salt Fresh ground pepper Finishing salt   INSTRUCTIONS: Salt generously. Let rest for 1 hour or overnight. Preheat oven or set up a two-zone grill at 250°F. Cook low and slow to internal temp (e.g., 120°F for medium-rare). Rest 15–20 minutes. Sear hot and fast for crust. Slice, season, and top with chimichurri. Get the full recipe here Pro Tip: The reverse sear method is ideal for thick cuts like the Cowboy Steak. Read our full Reverse Sear Guide to dial it in. Chimichurri Sauce for Steak This sauce is a blend of five key elements: fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, oregano), aromatics (garlic, shallots), spice (fresh or dried chilis), acid (vinegar) and olive oil. For those who don’t like cilantro, feel free to substitute more parsley.KEY INGREDIENTS:  1 bunch flat leaf (Italian) parsley, finely chopped  ½ bunch cilantro, finely chopped 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano (can sub 1 teaspoon dried oregano) 1 small shallot, finely chopped 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes (can sub a chopped fresh Fresno or jalapeño chili) 2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 cup (approximately) olive oil 2 to 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon kosher salt   INSTRUCTIONS:  Put everything but the oil and vinegar in a bowl and mix to combine. Add about ½ the olive oil to the mixture and stir. You want all the dry ingredients to be lightly suspended in oil and the overall consistency to be sauce-like. Add more oil as needed. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the red wine vinegar, then taste. You’re looking for a good balance of herbal and tart. Adjust to suit your taste. Taste and do a final adjustment of the salt, chili and vinegar levels. Optional: You can put everything in a blender and pulse lightly to chop and combine.    Pro tip: You can make this the day before your dinner. Store in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature about an hour before you serve. Pan-Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon Why it works: Rich, salty bacon with crispy sprouts delivers a savory punch. The lime finish adds balance.   KEY INGREDIENTS:  1 lb Brussels sprouts 4 slices SRF Apple Brined Uncured Bacon Olive oil 1 lime INSTRUCTIONS:  Crisp the bacon. Set aside. Sear sprouts in bacon fat until golden. Chop and toss with bacon. Finish with fresh lime juice. View full recipe   Smashed Tallow Potatoes with Spicy Aioli Why it works: Crispy and rich thanks to SRF Beef Tallow, these potatoes are a crowd favorite with a spicy finish.   KEY INGREDIENTS:  2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes 2 cups SRF Beef Tallow Kosher salt, parsley Spicy aioli (mayo + hot sauce) INSTRUCTIONS:  Boil potatoes until tender. Smash flat. Brush with tallow and roast at 350°F until crispy (about 25 minutes). Finish with salt, parsley, and aioli. Get the recipe Cast Iron Berry Cobbler This dessert is impressive and is amazingly easy to make. You can bake this the day before or have the ingredients ready to go and pop it in the oven at the start of dinner to serve the cobbler warm. Peaches and blueberries are great in this recipe, but use any fruit you have on hand.  Why it works: Sweet, rustic, and simple. Serve with ice cream and a second round of bourbon. KEY INGREDIENTS:  1 cup all purpose flour ⅔ cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup buttermilk   2 cups of your favorite in season berries and fruit, washed ½  stick salted butter 1 pint vanilla bean ice cream    INSTRUCTIONS:  Heat the oven to 350°F. Place a 10 inch cast iron skillet over medium low heat and add butter. Allow to gently brown, then remove from heat. I do this while I’m mixing the batter and it’s usually ready just as I finish. Sift flour, sugar and baking powder together in a mixing bowl. Add vanilla extract and buttermilk. Mix until the batter is smooth. Pour batter into the cast iron skillet with the brown butter. Top the batter with your fruit, spread evenly. Sprinkle a tablespoon or so of sugar over the top. Place into the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the top is brown and the edges along the cast iron skillet are crisp. Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.  Bonus Tip: Want to pair your Cowboy Steaks with something that holds its own? We rounded up our favorite bourbon, wine, and cocktail pairings for American Wagyu—because a great steak deserves a great drink.   What to Order for Guys Night In Make it easy—stock up on these Snake River Farms essentials ahead of your summer dinner party: SRF Gold® Cowboy Steaks: The centerpiece of your menu SRF Apple Brined Uncured Bacon: Adds depth and flavor to your sides SRF Beef Tallow: For ultra-crispy potatoes or next-level skillet cooking   Want to perfect the cooking method? Use our Reverse Sear Cooking Guide for flawless results.   Planning Ahead? Make It a Gift If your Guys Night doubles as a Father’s Day celebration—or you're thinking ahead for birthdays or host gifts—Snake River Farms makes it easy to send something unforgettable. Top Father’s Day Food Gifts Food Gifts for Men   Both guides are packed with standout picks that deliver big flavor and even better memories.   "I bought a tomahawk steak for each of my 3 sons as a small gift for their traveling to see us after my wife experienced some medical problems. I just got a message from one son saying the steak was one of the best he has ever had. Our grandkids loved it too. I'll be buying again." - Breton L., verified buyer   Your Guys Night Starts Here Great food. Good bourbon. Even better company. That’s what it’s all about. With American Wagyu from Snake River Farms, you’ll pull off a dinner that’s big on flavor and low on fuss—just the way it should be. So grab the steaks, fire up the grill, and get the guys over. You bring the fire—we’ll bring the beef.     Author Bio Dave Yasuda has worked with Snake River Farms for over 12 years, cooking virtually every product we sell. He has prepared SRF products for photoshoots, food festivals, company events, and customers. A skilled home cook, Dave has collaborated in the kitchen with award-winning chefs, recipe developers, and content creators to enhance his culinary skills. He has also been a featured guest on numerous food-centric podcasts, including Bon Appetit’s “Dinner SOS” hosted by Chris Morocco.