Did you know that 1 pound of beef retail cuts, lean only, trimmed to 1/4" fat, prime grade, cooked, contains 1093 calories? That's a lot of energy packed into one serving! If you're looking to add some protein to your diet, beef is a great choice. However, it's important to be mindful of the other nutritional information that comes with it.

In addition to its high calorie content, beef is also a good source of protein, with 169 grams per serving. It does contain a significant amount of fat, at 64 grams per serving, but luckily most of it is unsaturated fat. Cholesterol content is also high, at 496 milligrams per serving. However, beef is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

In this article, we'll explore some tips and strategies for cooking and serving 1 pound of beef retail cuts composite (lean only, trimmed to 1/4" fat, prime grade, cooked), as well as some dietary considerations for those who may need to limit their intake of certain nutrients.

Calories per serving

As mentioned earlier, 1 pound of beef retail cuts composite (lean only, trimmed to 1/4" fat, prime grade, cooked) contains 1093 calories per serving. This is a lot of energy, so it's important to factor it into your daily calorie intake. If you're trying to lose weight, you may want to limit your intake of beef or choose leaner cuts to reduce your overall calorie intake. However, if you're looking to build muscle or add more protein to your diet, beef can be a great choice.

Protein content

Beef is one of the richest sources of protein available, with 169 grams of protein per serving. This is important for building and repairing muscle tissue, as well as providing energy for physical activity. If you're an athlete or someone who engages in regular exercise, beef can be a great addition to your diet to support your activity level. However, if you're looking to reduce your overall protein intake, you may want to limit your beef consumption and choose plant-based protein sources instead.

Fat content

Beef contains a significant amount of fat, with 64 grams per serving. However, most of this is unsaturated fat, which is considered healthier than saturated fat. If you're watching your fat intake, you may want to choose leaner cuts of beef or trim the fat off before cooking. Additionally, it's important to balance your fat intake with other nutrients to maintain a healthy diet.

Cholesterol content

Beef is also relatively high in cholesterol, with 496 milligrams per serving. If you have high cholesterol or a family history of heart disease, you may want to limit your intake of beef or choose leaner cuts to reduce your cholesterol intake. However, if you're otherwise healthy and have no cholesterol concerns, beef can be a nutritious part of your diet.

Vitamin and mineral content

Beef is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, and zinc. These nutrients are important for maintaining healthy blood cells, supporting immune function, and promoting healthy growth and development. If you're looking to increase your intake of these nutrients, adding beef to your diet can be a great way to do so. However, it's important to balance your beef consumption with other nutrient-rich foods to maintain a well-rounded diet.

Preparation tips

When cooking 1 pound of beef retail cuts composite (lean only, trimmed to 1/4" fat, prime grade, cooked), it's important to choose the right cooking method to maximize flavor and nutrition. Grilling or broiling are great options for leaner cuts of beef, as they allow excess fat to drip away from the meat. Slow-cooking or stewing can be great for tougher cuts of beef, as it helps to break down the connective tissue and make the meat tender. When seasoning beef, opt for herbs and spices instead of high-sodium marinades to reduce your overall sodium intake.

Dietary considerations

If you have specific dietary concerns, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or food allergies, it's important to talk to a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before adding beef to your diet. They can help you determine the right serving size and suggest ways to incorporate beef into your meals while still meeting your nutritional needs and dietary restrictions.

Serving suggestions

1 pound of beef retail cuts composite (lean only, trimmed to 1/4" fat, prime grade, cooked) can be a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes. Try slicing it thin and adding it to salads or stir-fries for a protein boost, or searing it and serving with roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner. Beef can also be used in stews, chili, or sandwiches for a satisfying meal.

Storage instructions

When storing beef, it's important to keep it at a safe temperature to prevent foodborne illness. Refrigerate raw beef promptly, and use or freeze within a few days. When freezing, wrap the beef tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw beef in the refrigerator or microwave, not at room temperature.

Other nutritional information

In addition to its high calorie and protein content, 1 pound of beef retail cuts composite (lean only, trimmed to 1/4" fat, prime grade, cooked) contains 125% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12, 72% of the recommended daily intake of iron, and 38% of the recommended daily intake of zinc. While these nutrients are important for overall health, it's important to balance your beef consumption with other nutrient-rich foods to maintain a healthy diet.