Beef prices have skyrocketed lately! Here are a few ways to save on beef costs:

Choose Types and Cuts of Meat
When beef prices are high, it's better to choose less popular cuts that are relatively cheaper. For example, opting for flank or shank cuts instead of tenderloin can save you money while still tasting good. Depending on the market, the price difference for cheaper cuts can be significant, so try different cuts when shopping.

Buy in Bulk and Freeze
Buying in bulk and freezing portions can help you purchase meat at a lower price. In the long run, bulk buying can be economical. Buying cheap in bulk and dividing it for multiple meals significantly reduces the cost per meal. Nowadays, there are many types of vacuum-sealable bags available for freezing, and products that allow you to vacuum seal at home are also on the market.

Take Advantage of Discounts and Specials
Check for sales or discount events at grocery stores or online, and buying items that are close to their expiration date or on sale is a good strategy. Meat nearing its expiration date can be cooked immediately or frozen for later use, and discounted items often maintain good quality, helping you save on your budget.

Buy Ground Beef for Easy Portioning and Savings

Ground beef: This is typically made by grinding a mix of fat and lean meat from various cuts. A common ratio is 80% beef to 20% fat, while fattier ground beef can be made with a 70% beef to 30% fat ratio. For dieting, products with a 5% fat ratio are recommended.

Ground beef can be used in various dishes, and portioning and storing it allows for easy access whenever you need beef.

Portion and Freeze: When you can't use all the ground beef at once, it's important to portion it out and freeze it. When freezing, divide it into amounts you will use at one time and place it in sealed plastic bags or freezer-safe containers. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing, and label with the 'date' and 'contents' for easy identification later. Portioning into single or double servings makes it very convenient to take out and use when needed.

Refrigerate: When refrigerating, it should be used within 1-2 days, making it ideal for immediate cooking. Store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator, and if possible, keep it in its original packaging, adding plastic wrap or a sealed container for extra protection. Ground beef nearing its expiration date should be frozen, and temperature management is crucial when refrigerating.

Portion and Store After Cooking: Cooking ground beef in advance and then portioning and freezing it allows for quick reheating later. For example, making hamburger patties or meatballs and freezing them is very convenient.

Points to Note

Thawing Methods: The safest method is to thaw slowly in the refrigerator. This can take about 24 hours, but it prevents bacteria growth, making it the most recommended method.

Microwave Thawing: If you need to thaw quickly, you can use the microwave, but be cautious as the meat may not thaw evenly, and some parts may start cooking or heating up.

Refrigeration: Ground beef should ideally be used within 1-2 days when refrigerated.

Freezing: When frozen, it can maintain quality for about 3 months. However, over time, the taste and texture may decline, so it's best to use it as soon as possible.

Ground beef is affordable and versatile, and proper portioning and storage can lead to significant savings.