raise the steaks this grilling season with butcher tips

Q: What services do butchers provide that consumers don’t know they can tap into? 

A: Butchers assist with every meat need a shopper will or could have. We help procure beef cuts consumers are asking for and suggest cuts that might fit well with a specific meal they want to make. We also give great cooking suggestions!

Q: What are the best beef cuts for grilling?

A: The best beef cuts for grilling are the loin and ribeye cuts- popular cuts like Strip steak, T-Bone steak, Porterhouse steak and Ribeye steak. 

Q: Are there any favorite 'sleeper' beef cuts that feed a large crowd?

A: My personal sleeper cut is Top Sirloin steak- my father served it to his large family. It's a great option as it has superb flavor, is reasonably tender and often carries a value driven price point compared to other cuts. 

Q: What steak characteristics should you look for when choosing a beef cut at the butcher or grocery store?

A:  Look for beef cuts that have decent marbling throughout (flecks of fat within the meat) ... this adds flavor! Select cuts that are well trimmed and consistent in thickness, which will help with even cooking and doneness.

Q: Any budget-friendly, less popular cuts that you’d recommend for grilling?

A: I love suggesting my butcher’s picks to customers. A nicely marbled Denver steak, a lean Teres Major (aka poor man's tenderloin) or Tri-Tip Roast are cuts that not everyone is familiar with but provide a great eating experience. Be sure to ask your butcher about these.

Q: What’s the best way to handle less tender or unfamiliar beef cuts for the grill?

A: I have a few methods for helping “less tender” cuts grill well. First, try a marinade. There are great prepared options on the market, like Italian dressing, which you probably have in the fridge. I've also become a big fan of sous vide cooking, place a few fresh herbs, seasonings and cracked black pepper in a food-safe bag, so good!

Q: Most are familiar with the direct heat grilling method. Can you share cut recommendations and tips for indirect grilling, like smoking?

A: I really like reverse searing my steaks to build great depth of flavor. It can be done in many ways from low and slow on a pellet smoker then seared in a cast iron skillet, to using different cooking zones with charcoal. Make a pile of hot charcoal on one side of your grill, start the steak on the cooler side then give it a crusty sear on the hot side to finish. If you're in an apartment or the weather is bad you can also start your steak by searing on the stovetop then finishing in the oven, it’s a classic approach that works well.

Q: Top 3 grilling tips. Go!

A: (1) Season your beef well! A good salt, pepper, and garlic blend is a must to start, then adding a little heat or a little sweet to finish the flavor profile you are looking to achieve.

(2) Don’t be afraid to tie up any loose steak pieces, like a Ribeye that might come apart, a tenderloin with a long tail that will cook uneven, or a roast that you want to have a consistent finished temperature throughout.

(3) Grilling is a social experience, include friends and family when you grill! Drop off burgers to teachers or your local fire department or grill for the potluck you were invited to.

Q: Other butcher’s tips to stay in budget and improve your summer grilling?

A: Ground Beef is a staple from burgers, to meatloaves, sliders, and chilis. So, take advantage of any sales you see to save money by freezing.

• Buy in bulk if you see a great deal. Some retailers are now selling the entire primal for good prices. You can cut steaks yourself and wrap them in freezer paper, so they'll be ready to grill anytime.
• Focus on what I call “family cut” steaks. It is not necessary to put a steak on every plate for your backyard BBQ, but thicker steak cuts like Tomahawk, Ribeye, Top Sirloin or London Broil, work well grilled and sliced thin to serve a crowd.
• Don’t be afraid to talk to your butcher! Ask questions, take suggestions and you will have a great summer grilling experience.

For more inspiration, learn which beef cuts are best for grilling. Be sure to follow T.C. on Instagram @redbeardbutcher for more of his tips and tricks.