Planning a trip to your local butcher? Whether the goal is a holiday dinner party or just picking up some lunch meat for the work week, there’s an easy way to get exactly what you want.
Here are our five tips for hacking your visit to your butcher.
Do Your Research
If this is your first time, look up the butcher and see what they’re all about. Many butchers have unique specialties, whether it’s grass-fed beef, smoked meats, or artisanal sausages. We recommend you check out online reviews and browse the butcher’s website at a bare minimum.
But you could take it further and even follow them on social media to get a feel for what they offer. A little research goes a long way in making informed choices and might even net you some deals.
Some butchers might offer sale prices on certain cuts at specific times, and knowing that beforehand can help you make your decisions.
Go In With a List
You wouldn’t go to your local grocery store without a list, would you? (Would you?) Take the same approach when you head to the butcher. But of all the things we can recommend, include a few alternative options on the list.
If the butcher is out of a particular cut, having a backup plan can save the day, since butchers might run out of cuts depending on the week or time of day. We’re not saying you can’t deviate from the list if you see something you like, but having one can prevent you from feeling overwhelmed by choice.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
You don’t have to walk through their doors like some kind of meat maven. Butchers have tons of knowledge about different cuts, cooking methods, and flavor pairings. Use them like a resource to help you get the most out of your meat!
We also suggest you inquire about any special cuts or seasonal offerings to see what they have. These can often lead to discovering new supper staples and expanding your horizons in the world of meat.
Keep Yourself Open to Recommendations
Because butchers have such a deep understanding of each cut, one of the best things you can do is keep an open mind to potential recommendations. For example, if a butcher recommends a special marinade or rub, take note and give it a try!
These insider tips can elevate your dish and help you treat it in a way that makes its pros shine (or its cons less noticeable!). You can even tell your butcher what you plan to make and see if they have a recommendation for you.
Check Out the Extras
Most butcher shops offer much more than just meat. Many will sell delicious house-made sausages, marinades, rubs, and even side dishes. Adding these items can make your meals more complete or interesting without much extra effort.
We particularly like the idea of being open to sides; if your butcher doubles as a deli, give some of the cold salads a try to pair with your meat. They won’t always have the same impact as homemade, but it’s an incredible time-saver if you’re trying to get dinner on the table.
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Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
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