As National Wagyu Day approaches, it's the perfect time to delve into the world of Wagyu beef, renowned for its unparalleled flavor, texture, and marbling. At Herd & Grace, we take immense pride in our Wagyu beef, sourced from the finest Australian farms and raised with the utmost care. Let's explore the rich history of Wagyu, discover what makes it so special, and understand how our ethical and sustainable farming practices contribute to the exceptional quality of our beef.
The Origins and History of Wagyu Beef
Wagyu beef traces its roots back to Japan, where it has been prized for centuries. The term "Wagyu" literally means "Japanese cow.” Originally used as draft animals, these cattle were selected for their endurance, which incidentally led to the development of intramuscular fat cells, or marbling, that defines Wagyu beef today.
The cultural significance of Wagyu in Japan cannot be overstated. It has been a part of Japanese heritage, with strict breeding and feeding practices ensuring the highest quality meat. Over the years, Wagyu beef has gained international acclaim, becoming a global delicacy known for its luxurious taste and texture. Today, the world's best Wagyu can be found in the lush regions of Australia and Tasmania. Herd & Grace has scoured the world for the best selection of cattle and is proud to provide them to discerning meat-eaters in the States.
What Makes Wagyu Beef So Special?
What sets Wagyu beef apart from other types of beef is its extraordinary marbling, which refers to the fine streaks of fat interspersed within the muscle. This marbling is not only visually appealing but also contributes to the meat's melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich, buttery flavor.
Wagyu cattle are raised with meticulous care, often receiving massages, special diets, and live in beautiful locations. This pampered lifestyle results in meat that is exceptionally tender and flavorful. The high level of oleic acid in Wagyu fat also contributes to its unique taste, making it a sought-after choice for gourmet dishes.
A Day in the Life of a Wagyu Cow
At Herd & Grace, we ensure that our Wagyu cattle live in a stress-free, nurturing environment. Our partner farmers are committed to ethical farming practices, providing their cattle with spacious pastures, high-quality feed, and attentive care.
The daily routine of a Wagyu cow involves grazing on lush, nutrient-rich grasslands, which contributes to the meat's superior quality. These cows are also given supplemental feed, such as barley, to enhance their marbling and flavor profile. Regular health check-ups and a calm, serene environment are paramount, as stress can negatively impact the quality of the meat.
Wagyu vs. Other Beef: What’s the Difference?
Comparing Wagyu beef to other beef varieties highlights its superior qualities. Unlike conventional beef, which can be lean and sometimes tough, Wagyu beef is renowned for its tenderness and flavor. The extensive marbling in Wagyu creates a juicier, more succulent meat that stands out on any plate.
While other beef types, such as Angus or Hereford, are also prized for their flavor, Wagyu's unique characteristics make it a league of its own. The meticulous breeding and feeding practices, combined with the ethical treatment of the animals, result in a product that is not only delicious but also raised with integrity.
How It Works
We make it simple to access the best beef on the market
1. We Source
Our longstanding relationships with Australian farmers provides Herd & Grace unique access to world class proteins. We trace the origin of every single cut back to the idyllic pastures it came from - surpassing the Australian MSA grading system, which is the most stringent and demanding in existence.
2. You Choose
Choose from expertly curated boxes, premium individual cuts, or create your own customized box. Pick a frequency of delivery from monthly to twice yearly. You can easily update these choices online anytime, at your convenience.
3. We Deliver
We now ship Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Any orders received after Wednesday at 12PM PDT will ship the following Monday.
Products are shipped frozen with insulation, dry ice, and ice-packs to keep the products safe and delicious while in transit up to 72 hours.