Think of mince not as a separate entity but as the cut of meat that it comes from. Yes because it is broken down it becomes pliable and more tender but that doesn't change the need for educated cooking. Mince from sirloin will cook quickly to make an excellent burger but mince from beef shin will still need long slow cooking to bring out its best side. In the same vein choose the right mince for the job. Use beef mince because it is beef not because it is mince.

To some extent, they can be interchangeable but you would never make a cottage pie with lamb mince or a shepherd's pie with beef. Bolognese though actually suits the soft sweet mince of lamb rather than the more solid aspect of beef. When making a mince dish such as Bolognese do not see it as a quick supper. The best meat sauces are simmered in plenty of water for several hours to make the sauce soft and sensual.

Don't let the rather tarnished reputation of mince put you off. It is a hugely versatile ingredient that is there because it is the best meat for the job not because the butcher had too many offcuts or the mortgage is overdue. Let the recipe and its needs dictate the fat content of the meat; lean and low is not always the way to go. You can use venison mince as an alternative to beef mince but bear in mind that it is very lean and cook accordingly. Venison mince makes an excellent burger; take care not to overcook it. Make Scandi style meatballs or try our recipe for venison stovies.