How to Save Money on Meat by Choosing Less Expensive Cuts

For many people, meat is an essential part of their diet. However, the cost of meat can be prohibitive, especially if you're trying to stick to a budget. One way to save money on meat is by choosing cheaper cuts of meat. These cuts may not be as tender or as easy to cook as their more expensive counterparts, but they can still be delicious and satisfying when prepared correctly.

Here are some examples of cheaper cuts of meat that you can try:

Chuck Roast: This cut of meat comes from the shoulder of the cow and is relatively inexpensive. It's a tough cut of meat, but when cooked low and slow, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. Chuck roast is perfect for stews, pot roasts, and beef bourguignon.

Brisket: Brisket is another tough cut of meat that requires slow cooking to become tender. It's a flavorful cut that's perfect for smoking, slow cooking in the oven, or making corned beef. Brisket is a popular cut for barbecue, and it's often used in Texas-style barbecue.

Flank Steak: Flank steak is a thin cut of meat that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. It's a lean cut that's perfect for grilling or broiling. Flank steak is often used in fajitas, stir-fries, and sandwiches.

Short Ribs: Short ribs are a flavorful cut of meat that's perfect for slow cooking. They come from the lower portion of the cow's ribs and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Short ribs are great in stews, braises, and curries.

Pork Shoulder: Pork shoulder is a versatile cut of meat that's perfect for slow cooking. It's a flavorful cut that's often used in pulled pork and barbecue. Pork shoulder can also be roasted in the oven or cooked in a slow cooker.

Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are a cheaper alternative to chicken breasts, and they're much more flavorful. They're perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying. Chicken thighs are often used in curries, stews, and stir-fries.

Ground Beef: Ground beef is an affordable and versatile cut of meat that's perfect for a variety of dishes. It's often used in burgers, meatloaf, tacos, and spaghetti sauce. Ground beef is also great for batch cooking and meal prepping.

How to Save Money on Meat by Choosing Less Expensive Cuts

When cooking with cheaper cuts of meat, it's important to keep in mind that they may require longer cooking times and different cooking methods than more expensive cuts. Slow cooking, braising, and stewing are all great methods for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat.

Marinating can also help tenderize cheaper cuts of meat and add flavor. Acidic ingredients like vinegar, citrus juice, or yogurt can help break down the tough fibers in meat and make it more tender. You can also add herbs, spices, and other flavorings to your marinade to add extra flavor.

Another tip for cooking with cheaper cuts of meat is to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked to the proper temperature. Cooking times can vary depending on the cut of meat, so it's important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different cuts of meat and cooking methods. Cheaper cuts of meat can be just as delicious and satisfying as their more expensive counterparts when prepared correctly. So, next time you're at the grocery store, consider trying a cheaper cut of meat and see what delicious dishes you can create. Your wallet and taste buds will thank you!