If you're the kind of person who likes doing one big shop and not have to think about meat again for weeks (or even months), you're in the right place. Bulk buying - whether you've stocked up on a half beast, or pulled together a box of your favourites - is all about quality control, convenience and value for money. But to really make it work, it comes down to how you store it, freeze it and use it.
We've compiled a few of your top tips to help you get the most out of your freezer stash - smarter storage, better planning and less midweek stress.
Store It Smart
Getting the meat home is only step one - how you store it makes a big different to how long it lasts and how easy it is to use.
- Use quality freezer bags or containers: press out as much air as possible or vacuum seal if you can to prevent from freezer burn
- Label everything: we're talking cut, weight and freeze date. It saves you from having to dig through mystery packs later. You could even colour code them to protein if you're feeling super organised (e.g. red for beef, green for lamb etc).
- Group by use or cooking time: Store quick cook cuts like Mince or Steak together, and keep roasts or slow-cook cuts in their own section. This helps you know where things are to avoid any extra time rummaging through.
- Keep a freezer inventory: It may be a little over the top, but a simple list on your fridge, or maybe even on your phone will help you track what you have - and what's running low.
Freeze It Right
To get the most out of your meat, it pays to freeze it properly from the start.
- Freeze while fresh: Don't wait - lock in peak quality by freezing your meat soon after you bring it home
- Portion before freezing, if required: Break down bulk packs into meal-sized portions so you only need to defrost what you need, when you need it.
- Freeze your meat with marinade: Pop your meat and marinade into the same bag before freezing. As it thaws, the flavours soak in - one less thing to prep later. This is a time-saver we LOVE.
- Defrost, safely: Always thaw meat in the fridge overnight or in cold water, not on the bench. It's safer, helps prevent texture, and keeps flavours intact.
- Follow the 'first in first out' rule: Always use older packs before newer ones to keep your stash fresh
Make It Work For You
A full freezer isn't just about having food on hand - it's about making life that little bit easier, every day.
- Plan meals around what you have: Got a bolar roast or short ribs? That's Sunday sorted. Use your inventory to build your weekly plan. The base is there, so your supermarket shop becomes all your extras.
- Defrost with purpose: Take meat out the night before and you're one step ahead when the dinner rush hits.
- Set a reminder to 'shop your freezer': Add a calendar alert or recurring note in your phone - it helps rotate stock and avoid waste.
- Make prep social: Share a bulk order and a cook-up day with a friend or neighbour. It's more fun, more efficient, a cost effective way of shopping and keeps both freezers full.
Some nights you've got time to cook. Others, you just need dinner on the table. A well-stocked freezer makes room for both - and gives you one less thing to think about.
