How to Save Money on Beef: A Practical Guide

In today's economy, finding ways to save money while enjoying your favorite foods is essential. For beef lovers, prices can be steep, especially if you're following a carnivore diet or simply have a penchant for steaks. In this article, we’ll explore an effective method to save significantly on beef purchases by utilizing subprimal cuts, a technique shared by health expert Shawn Baker MD.

Understanding Subprimal Cuts

Subprimal cuts are large sections of beef that can be broken down into smaller, more manageable cuts such as steaks. By purchasing these larger cuts directly from your local butcher or grocery store, you can save a considerable amount of money. For example, Shawn Baker recently bought a prime grade New York strip for $15.99 per pound at Costco, compared to pre-cut options priced at $19.99 per pound. This simple switch saved him about $60!

Tools and Supplies Needed

To successfully process your beef, you'll need a few essential tools:

• Cutting Board: A sizable cutting board to accommodate the meat.
• Sharp Knife: A good-quality knife is crucial. Shawn recommends using a sharp knife for safety and efficiency.
• Kitchen Shears: Handy for cutting through packaging and trimming fat.
• Ziploc Bags: For storing your cut steaks.
• Paper Towels: Useful for cleanup and handling raw meat.

Additionally, having a semi-frozen piece of meat makes cutting easier and ensures cleaner cuts.

Steps to Cut and Store Your Beef

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you cut and store your beef:

1. Sharpen Your Knife: Ensure your knife is sharp for optimal cutting. A sharp knife is a safer knife, reducing the risk of slips.
2. Prepare the Meat: Remove the subprimal cut from its packaging and dispose of excess juices. This preparation ensures a clean working environment.
3. Cutting the Steaks: Determine the thickness you desire for your steaks. Shawn suggests about 1.5 inches thick, which is ideal for cooking to a perfect medium-rare.
4. Storing the Steaks: Place each steak into Ziploc bags. For a better seal, partially seal the bag, submerge it in water to push out excess air, and then seal it completely.

After these steps, you'll have neatly packaged and stored steaks ready to be frozen or cooked!

Key Takeaways

• Buying subprimal cuts can lead to substantial savings when purchasing beef.
• Essential tools for cutting beef include a sharp knife, cutting board, kitchen shears, and storage bags.
• Proper cutting techniques, such as starting with a semi-frozen piece of meat, improve the quality of your steak cuts.
• Utilizing water submersion helps create a better seal for storage bags, maintaining meat quality.

Conclusion

By purchasing subprimal cuts and preparing your own steaks at home, you can enjoy your favorite meat dishes without breaking the bank. This method not only saves money but also allows you to control the quality and size of your cuts. For more tips on healthy eating and nutrition, consider exploring resources and communities focused on health and wellness.