In 2022, Q39 was named Barbeque Establishment of the Year at the Certified Angus Beef® Annual Conference which recognizes and celebrates those who deliver the best Angus beef. We only serve Certified Angus Beef® at Q39, but what does that mean? Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Certified Angus Beef®.
What is Certified Angus Beef?
The American Angus is a breed of beef cattle that derives from the Scottish Aberdeen Angus population. The beef from this breed is known to be superior due to its marbled appearance.
Certified Angus Beef® is a premium brand of Angus with the most sought-after standards of excellence in the beef industry. All Certified Angus Beef® products are derived from specially selected Angus cattle that are raised by farmers and ranchers dedicated to raising Angus cattle that meet stringent quality guidelines. Certified Angus Beef® is a cut above USDA Prime, Choice and Select grades, with ten specifications that focus on marbling and maturity, consistent sizing and quality appearance and tenderness. Only 3 in 10 Angus cattle meet these specifications, making it the very best Angus beef available.Additionally, independent labs regularly test for quality assurance of all Certified Angus Beef® products which ensures that every bite meets these strict standards of excellence.
What Are the Requirements for Certified Angus Beef®?
Certified Angus Beef® sets itself apart from other brands with its 10-step selection process which helps guarantee consistent product quality. In order to earn the brand name, Angus beef must pass these standards:
Marbling and Maturity
- Modest or higher marbling
- Medium to fine marbling texture
- Only cattle harvested less than 30 months of age by detention and only A-maturity lean
Consistent Sizing
- 10 to 16 square inch ribeye area
- 1,100-pound hot carcass weight or less
- 1-inch or less fat thickness
Quality Appearance and Tenderness
- Superior muscling
- Practically free of capillary rupture
- No dark cutters
- No neck hump exceeding 2 inches
What Are the Benefits of Certified Angus Beef®?
There are many benefits to choosing Certified Angus Beef®. It is the perfect choice for discerning chefs and restaurants who want to offer their customers only the best-tasting beef. The higher levels of marbling ensure that it will be juicy, tender and full of flavor when prepared. The leaner cut makes it healthier for you than other cuts and it is a great source of zinc, iron, protein, vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants. When cooked properly with the right seasonings and cooking techniques, Certified Angus Beef® will provide an unforgettable experience every time, making it well worth the investment.
Where to Buy Certified Angus Beef
Certified Angus Beef® products can be found in licensed grocery stores, butcher shops and restaurants across the country. They are also available online from a variety of retailers. As a consumer, look for the Certified Angus Beef® logo to ensure the beef you are purchasing is certified.
One of our Certified Angus Beef® partners is the Blythe Family Farm in White City, Kansas. Our Executive Chef, Philip Thompson, works with them and all our purveyors to ensure we only serve the highest quality products. “Buying our beef from passionate farmers who share our commitment to quality and integrity allows us to ensure that all dishes we serve start with the very best ingredients,” said Thompson.
How to Season and Prepare Certified Angus Beef®
When cooking Certified Angus Beef®, it’s important to use the right seasonings and techniques. The best way to enhance its flavor is to use simple ingredients like freshly ground pepper, sea salt, garlic powder, and a bit of olive oil. At Q39, we season our Kansas City Strip steaks with our signature Steak Seasoning which showcases the great Certified Angus Beef® flavor. Other herbs and spices can be used to add an extra layer of flavor. It’s also important to remember not to overcook the beef as this can dry out the meat and reduce its flavor. Depending on the method of preparation, size and shape of the beef, the degree of doneness can vary. Visit the Certified Angus Beef® website for how-to videos and other helpful cooking instructions. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your Certified Angus Beef® dish will be as good as those prepared by experienced chefs and pitmasters.
One of the best ways to experience the exceptional quality and taste of Certified Angus Beef® for yourself is to visit us at one of our two locations in Kansas City, MO and Overland Park, KS and let us do the grilling. Order one of our specialties and most popular dishes, the Certified Angus Beef® Brisket. Our award-winning brisket is the best of beef barbeque. Starting with the quality cut of Certified Angus Beef®, our brisket delivers exceptional taste and tenderness. If you are in the mood for a burger instead, our Brisket Burgers are made with Certified Angus Beef® that is butchered and ground in-house daily.
Certified beef equals an exceptional barbeque experience and our partnership with Certified Angus Beef® guarantees we will be serving our customers the best quality beef for years to come.
