With so many different options, picking out the right cut of meat seems daunting at first. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be! This post from our experts at Horner’s Midtown Market will cover how to choose the right cut of meat for your next dinner.
What are ways to select the right type of meat?
The key is to know your goal when you’re shopping for meats. You’ll always find the perfect cut if you keep the following things in mind while you’re at the butcher shop:
- Showing off a marinade: It’s tough to beat a cut of meat that’s been marinating for a few hours. However, some cuts are better for marinades than others. Regardless of the flavor, we recommend beef tri-tip. This cut is made from the bottom sirloin and has a loose, fibrous texture that absorbs the flavor of the marinade.
- Experimenting with a rub: Consider putting a rub on your meat if you’re not going to marinate it—and if you’re using a rub, be sure to try a skirt or flank steak. These cuts cook quickly over high heat. If done correctly, the rub will give you a crispy texture, and the meat will be incredibly tender.
- Buying on a budget: Making a nice meal when you’re short on cash isn’t always easy. When that’s the case, go with beef sirloin or chicken wings. Sirloin is perfect for skewers, which help stretch your dollar a bit further. Anyone in the mood for poultry should consider flavorful bone-in chicken wings.
- Watching your weight: Knowing how to choose the right cut of meat gets just a little bit more difficult when you’re trying to stick to a healthy diet. Consider skinless, boneless chicken breast when you want a good, low-calorie and heart-healthy meal. A chicken breast is a cut that’s packed with flavor, but it’s much lower in fat than beef or even pork.
- Aiming for flavor: Delicious flavors should always be your end goal, but when you’re trying to cook up the most flavorful meal, buy pork or beef ribs. Ribs need to be cooked for hours to achieve their rich flavor, so be sure to get them on the grill or smoker nice and early.
- Going all out: When you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, pick up a porterhouse steak. This steak has two cuts of meat—New York strip and filet mignon—that are separated with a juicy bone. Cook your porterhouse over a direct heat source for best results.
- Ask the experts: Even with all the info above, you might still have trouble choosing your cut. Don’t worry—just ask for our advice! At Horner’s Midtown Market, our friendly staff members are excited to help you find the perfect piece of meat for your next meal.
Get a meat bundle from us
Horner’s Midtown Market makes choosing your cut of meat as easy as can be—just buy a meat bundle from us. We have 26 different bundles full of all different types of meat to satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank. Stop in today to check out our selection.