DETROIT (WXYZ) — It’s grilling season, but if you’re looking to barbecue on a budget, 7 Action News will tell you which meat will meet your needs so you don’t waste your money.
Steaks, burgers or chicken? If you’re trying to figure out what to put on your grill, we have some ideas that could save you a few bucks.
Don't get burned by the price of meats. That's what restaurant owner Chef Maxcel Hardy says.
He invited Reporter Syma Chowdhry to Eastern Market to settle a beef – where is the best place to buy meat?
Hardy says to go to a butcher shop like Dugagjini Meats.
“It’s always the freshest, best quality and price,” he said.
Butchers also have more variety.
“Tailored to your menu, tailored to your specific party or dinner," Hardy said.
And if you're grilling burgers...
“Just get some cheaper meat, ground it and then patty them yourself," he said.
Cheaper meat could mean using more chuck and less sirloin. And other meats to consider include chicken, lamb and pork.
Chef Hardy keeps up to date on meat trends with bulletins from the USDA. That helps him keep track of trends or recalls that could affect the price of meat.
For example, he’s noticed the price of chicken wings going up, so maybe that’s something you should avoid when barbecuing on a budget.
And if you want to grill with steaks, you can without the side of guilt from splurging.
Chef Hardy says since you can cook low and slow on a grill, cheaper cuts like flank or hanger steaks can taste rich, especially with the right marinade. That’s because grilling helps tenderize tough cuts.
