Beef sold for stew (that is, trimmed and cut into bite-size cubes) is generally chuck or round—tough cuts that become tender and flavorful when slowly simmered in liquid. Beef round cuts (bottom and eye) are generally leaner than chuck (shoulder, leg and butt) and very well-suited to stew.

What cut is beef stew meat?

What Cut of Beef Is Stew Meat? Stew meat is made from cuts of beef with lots of tough connective tissue, namely chuck and/or round. When you simmer it in a liquid, the connective tissue breaks down and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. That's why it's traditionally braised in stock and turned into beef stew.

What is stew meat good for?

A full-flavored staple. Great for slow-cooking, chili and stews. The name “Stew” originates from a method of cooking where small pieces of meat are simmered in water or other liquid until its tender.