Indulging in a delicious steak for dinner can be a treat for special occasions or a regular weeknight go-to. With its numerous benefits and irresistible taste, it’s no wonder that steak has a dedicated following. Packed with protein and bursting with flavor, it can be prepared in a variety of ways – from searing it on the stovetop to roasting it in the oven or grilling it outdoors.
To fully appreciate the value of the meat, familiarize yourself with the different cuts and factors influencing its cost. The price of beef can greatly differ depending on the cut you select. Fortunately, there is a steak available at every price range, suitable for various seasoning and cooking methods.
Discovering the perfect meat options at the butcher’s counter has never been easier. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to splurge, this simplified guide offers a range of choices to suit your needs. Say goodbye to the stress and uncertainty, and make your selection with confidence.
Best Cuts Of Steak On A Small Budget
Butcher’s cuts, unlike their pricier counterparts, come from well-exercised parts of the steer’s body. These muscle-rich portions are often harder to reach, requiring the butcher’s skillful trimming to yield a quality cut for your cooking needs. Although these affordable cuts boast exceptional flavors, they do demand extra attention during preparation to prevent dryness and toughness. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about these delightful cuts.
Chuck Eye
Chuck eye steak is often referred to as “the poor man’s rib-eye,” but don’t be fooled by its name. This cut of meat can deliver exceptional results when properly treated. Before cooking, marinate it for maximum flavor and tenderness. To prevent it from drying out and becoming tough, baste the steak with its own juices, a flavorful sauce, or even butter as it cooks.
Flat Iron Flat iron steak is a delicious and affordable cut that’s gaining popularity these days. Once you remove the tough center tissue, it becomes tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Whether you prefer grilling or pan-searing, flat iron is perfect. Just like chuck eye, it’s best cooked to a mouthwatering medium-rare or medium.
Hanger
If cooked properly, hanger steak has a great flavor and can be extremely tender. It can shrink if overcooked due to its inherently long muscle fibers and slightly coarser texture compared to other cuts. Consider grilling and broiling to achieve that delectable sweetness.
Flap
Flap meat, like the other wallet-friendly cuts, works wonders when marinated to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Quick cooking over high heat to medium-rare or medium perfection is key. It’s also a prime pick for grilling.
The Best Steaks Money Can Buy
These expensive cuts of steak are worth every penny. They come from the smaller, less worked parts of the steer. This means the meat is naturally tender and contains minimal connective tissue that needs cooking.
These highly desirable pieces might come with a premium price tag, but are worth it. They are inherently tender and packed with flavor and require minimal effort and technique to cook. No need for marinades – simply sear over high heat to lock in the flavor, and continue cooking to your preferred level of doneness. Deliciousness guaranteed.
Rib-Eye
Rib-eye steak is known for its abundant fat marbling, particularly around the outer edges. This marbling is what makes it so tender, flavorful, and beefy. Due to its high fat content, rib- eye can handle high temperatures and stay incredibly juicy. It’s hard to overcook this steak, but be mindful of splattering due to its natural fattiness. Get ready for a truly delicious dining experience.
Butchers usually cut filet mignon into small, thick portions known for their fine texture and buttery taste. This steak, often touted as the most luxurious, is trimmed of its fatty edges and delivers exceptionally tender meat. To prepare, sear the tenderloin over high heat until it turns brown on the outside, then finish it in the oven to your desired doneness.
In restaurants, filet mignon is often pan-seared, finished in the oven, and can be served with a variety of sauces. It’s a popular choice for elegant, at-home dinner parties as well. If you are hosting, you can order filet mignon online and choose from a wide selection of styles such as bacon-wrapped filet mignon, tripled trimmed and butcher’s cut. There are various methods of preparation to try, ranging from beginner recipes to more advanced for those who are more seasoned in the kitchen.
New York Strip
New York strip steak is a timeless favorite at steakhouses. While it may be a bit less tender than a tenderloin or T-bone cuts, this cut still offers satisfying tenderness when cooked just right.
With its well-distributed marbling and flavorful fat, strip steak is a dependable choice for those seeking a hearty beef experience. It truly shines when seared quickly over high heat, locking in all those bold flavors. So fire up that grill and get ready for a mouthwatering steak like no other.
T-bone
The T-bone steak is a bone-in wonder that’s easy to spot with its distinctive T-shaped bone. This flavorful cut offers the best of both worlds: a tenderloin on one side (good) and a strip steak on the other (very good). Thanks to its marbling, this iconic steak delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
It’s like enjoying the buttery tenderness of filet mignon combined with the rich beefiness of a New York strip. Whether you prefer grilling or searing, remember to rotate the T-bone for even cooking. Get ready for a mouthwatering experience.
For the finest steak cuts that suit any budget, visit The Meat Box Tauranga and explore their wide selection of high-quality steaks that are sure to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank.
