5 Cheap Cuts of Meat That Taste Like a Million Bucks
I’ve been meal prepping for a while now, and I’ve learned that you don’t have to break the bank to eat well. One of my favorite ways to save money is by using cheap cuts of meat and cooking them in a way that makes them taste expensive. As we head into Spring, I’m excited to share some of my favorite recipes that are perfect for outdoor eating or Easter gatherings.
Cheap Cuts 101
When I first started cooking, I had no idea what to do with cheaper cuts of meat. I’d pick up a pack of chicken thighs or a pork shoulder and then just kind of… wing it. Sometimes it worked out, but more often than not, I ended up with a tough, flavorless piece of meat. It wasn’t until I started doing some research and experimenting with different cooking methods that I realized the potential of these affordable cuts.
For example, a 2-pound pork shoulder can cost as little as $3-4, and with some slow cooking, it can be transformed into tender, fall-apart meat that’s perfect for tacos or pulled pork sandwiches. I like to cook it in a crock pot with some onions, garlic, and BBQ sauce for about 8 hours, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser.
My Top 5 Cheap Cuts
Here are a few of my favorite cheap cuts of meat, along with some tips for cooking them:
- Chicken Thighs: These are one of the most versatile and affordable cuts of meat out there. I like to marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, then grill or bake them until they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. A pack of 5-6 chicken thighs can cost around $5-6.
- Pork Shoulder: As I mentioned earlier, this cut is perfect for slow cooking. I like to cook it in a crock pot with some onions, garlic, and BBQ sauce for about 8 hours, and the result is always tender and flavorful.
- Flank Steak: This cut can be a bit tougher than some of the others, but it’s still packed with flavor. I like to marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic, then grill or pan-fry it until it’s medium-rare. A 1-2 pound flank steak can cost around $6-8.
- Lamb Shanks: These are another great cut for slow cooking, and they’re perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal. I like to braise them in a mixture of red wine, stock, and herbs, then serve them with some roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes. A pair of lamb shanks can cost around $10-12.
- Short Ribs: These are one of my favorite comfort foods, and they’re perfect for a chilly Spring evening. I like to braise them in a mixture of red wine, stock, and tomato paste, then serve them with some creamy polenta or mashed potatoes. A rack of short ribs can cost around $8-10.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
One of the most important things to keep in mind when cooking with cheap cuts of meat is to cook them low and slow. This can help to break down the connective tissues and make the meat more tender and flavorful. I also like to use a lot of aromatics like onions, garlic, and herbs to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Another tip is to not be afraid to experiment and try new things. I’ve had my fair share of failures in the kitchen, but I’ve also learned that some of the best dishes come from mistakes and unexpected combinations. For example, I once tried cooking a pork shoulder with some Korean chili flakes and kimchi, and it ended up being one of the most flavorful and delicious dishes I’ve ever made.
As we head into the Spring season, I’m excited to start cooking up some of these cheap cuts outdoors on the grill or in a Dutch oven. There’s something about eating a hearty, satisfying meal in the fresh air that just can’t be beat. What’s your favorite way to cook cheap cuts of meat?
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