As someone who meal preps every week, I’m always on the lookout for ways to save money without sacrificing flavor. One of my favorite strategies is using cheap cuts of meat that can be cooked to taste expensive. With a little patience and the right techniques, these affordable options can become the stars of my meals.
Cheap Cuts to Consider
I’ve found that certain cuts of meat are often overlooked, but can be incredibly delicious when cooked right. Some of my favorites include short ribs, beef shank, and pork belly. These cuts are usually priced lower than their more popular counterparts, but can be just as tasty with some slow cooking. For example, I can get a pound of short ribs for around $3-4, which is a fraction of the cost of a pound of prime rib.
Cooking Methods
The key to making these cheap cuts taste expensive is to cook them low and slow. This breaks down the connective tissues and infuses the meat with rich, depthful flavors. I like to use my slow cooker or Instant Pot to cook these cuts, as they make the process easy and hands-off. For short ribs, I’ll often brown them in a pan before finishing them in the slow cooker with some red wine and stock. The result is a fall-off-the-bone tender meat that’s perfect for serving over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
- Brown the meat in a pan before slow cooking for added flavor
- Use acidic ingredients like tomatoes or vinegar to help break down connective tissues
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and seasonings to find the combinations you like best
Spring Meal Prep Ideas
Now that spring is here, I’m excited to start incorporating more seasonal ingredients into my meal prep. One of my favorite ways to do this is by adding fresh herbs to my dishes. For example, I’ll often add some chopped rosemary to my short ribs or use parsley to add a bright, freshness to my sauces. I’m also looking forward to taking my meals outside and enjoying them in the warmer weather. If you’re building out a home office or kitchen space, I’ve been eyeing some prints from Printsofprint on Etsy — they do abstract landscapes and some fantasy-style art that’s actually really different.
What are some of your favorite cheap cuts of meat to cook with, and how do you like to prepare them? I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration.
Leave a comment