Top Cuts of Meat at the Supermarket
Going to the supermarket for a delicious cut of meat can be overwhelming. There are many choices, price points, and sizes, but it doesn’t need to be stressful. Dan Bamsey, local Tea, SD resident, knows what it takes to prepare delicious meals using the right cuts of meat.
Before Dan started his BBQ sauce business, Bam Bam’s BBQ, he owned a meat locker for several years, which gave him the knowledge of marinading, roasting, the best cuts of meat, and what to look for when walking up to the meat counter. Below are his answers to what you need to know when searching for meat at the supermarket.
When in the supermarket, what are the key signs of a good piece of meat?
Depends on the type of meat and cut…
Steak
When looking for ribeye– look for a meatier cap, and a lot of marbling throughout the whole piece of meat.
Sirloin - ‘heart’ is a leaner piece of meat with no cap.
Flat iron – another great cut of meat that you can’t go wrong with. Two are located in each animal, located in the hind quarters. Reasonably price and tender cut.
T-bone - porterhouse is preferred. One side of the porterhouse is the new york strip (long part of the porterhouse), smaller side is a round circle (filet mignon).
Hamburger
Ask for fresh grind or fresh ground – this is all of the trimmings of the steaks and roasts. This is likely more expensive but better quality.
Pork
Iowa chops are preferred. An inch and a quarter thick - the larger side is the pork loin & a smaller, rounder side is the pork tenderloin (pork chops).
Pork loin – cut this into an inch to an inch and a-quarter pieces and grill it like a pork chop.
Chicken
Preferred chicken thighs over the breast for the darker meat. Cut the bone & excess fat. Great for a barbeque or stir fry. Thighs also stay moister.
Breasts – pound with a meat tenderizer until ½ inch thick and then cook on the grill.
Are there specific times when certain cuts of meat are better than others?
No, but fresh is always the best. Non-frozen meats will always have a better taste and flavor.
Where is the best place to purchase meats?
Usually from a local farmer/rancher. There are a lot of great local options that carry high-quality meats throughout our region.
What are the three basic components of every marinade?
Lowry’s liquid teriyaki is great.
Bam Bam’s Original & Zippy also work great for chicken (of all cuts – wings, legs, thighs, breasts) & pork loin.
And it never hurts to let the marinade sit overnight in the refrigerator.
How did you come up with Bam Bam’s BBQ?
Back when I owned a meat locker in the 90s (Country Meats - located south of SF on HWY 115). I started with a base (vinegar & ketchup) and added a “little of this” and a “little of that” until I got it just right. Then I shared it with my neighbors and friends to get their feedback. Once about 80% of the people I shared it with loved it, I knew we had a good product.
I returned to the drawing board several times to develop something great.
Do you have a favorite type of meat to marinate?
My favorite type of meat to marinate would be chicken thighs or pork tenderloin.
What are the best practices to keep your meats tender while roasting?
Cook your meats slowly so you don’t overcook them. But it all starts with having a high-quality cut of meat.
Has sharing a variety of meat and marinades with your community always been your passion?
Yes, I love to cook for people and try new things. My daughter’s friends have come over every Sunday night since probably 2016. And I enjoy the comradery that comes with enjoying good food together and testing out new recipes and ingredients.
What are some things the average person should know when shopping for meat?
Go to the store with an idea of what you’re looking for and how much you want to spend. Don’t be afraid to approach the deli counter/meat case and ask questions.
Are there any Do’s & Don’ts when it comes to picking out your meat cuts?
Don’t – buy meat that is too fatty.
Do’s – buy the right cut for the right occasion. The meat counter employees are a great resource when it comes to selecting the appropriate cut for the occasion.
What’s next for Bam Bam’s?
Bam Bam BBQ originated in the 1990s, and I had so many people who wanted to purchase the product that in 2020, I decided to start producing it. Now, you can find Bam Bam BBQ at almost any local retailer. Some things coming up next for Bam Bam’s is additional varieties, maybe a thicker, Southern style.
To learn more about Bam Bam’s BBQ, visit their website. And for more BBQ tips, read Top Meat Tips From Uncle Ed’s and Conversation Kitchen featuring The Smoked Culture by Hungry for Truth.
