Local Meat in Dallas

We are truly blessed in Dallas.  It used to be that you bought a side of beef, stored it in your deep freeze, and it fed you for 6 months to a year, depending on the size of your family.  I bought half a lamb a few years ago, and had to shuffle it to my friends when we spent four days without power due to downed tree.  It wouldn't have been possible to do that with a side of beef.

I see you!

I've purchased local meat from several farmers.  In the Dallas area, there are a number that sell meat at Farmers Markets or provide home delivery, and here are some of my favorites:
Livestock First Ranch 
Rehoboth Ranch
Bar M Ranch
Juha Ranch
Burgundy Pastured Beef

In addition, if you need a special cut quickly, the Local Yocal just off the square in McKinney runs a full service retail butcher shop carrying locally raised beef from Matt Hamilton's Genesis Beef.  They also carry local chicken, pork, lamb, goat, eggs, dairy and honey.  Good stuff.

If I'm picking up at a farmers market, I like to call ahead and preorder.  Farmers like to know they have orders before they get to market, and this helps them make sure they have enough product.  Additionally, some have limited eggs and give priority to orders that include meat, so it's a good idea to get on their list before market day.

Don't be afraid to ask questions.  Every one of these farmers is proud of what they produce, and happy to talk about it with you.  Know your farmer!