If you are looking for a lean and healthy protein option, 1 oz beef outside round (steak), trimmed to 0" fat and cooked on a grill, is a great choice. This cut of meat contains only 52 calories and is a good source of essential nutrients your body needs.

One important thing to know is that this cut is relatively tough so it requires careful cooking to ensure that it is tender and flavorful. Beef outside round is often sliced thin and used for soups, stews, stir fry, and even roast beef. It is also a popular choice for carne asada, a Mexican-style marinated grilled beef dish.

In this article, we will discuss the benefits and nutritional value of beef outside round, share cooking tips, provide some great recipes, and answer some common questions about where to buy and how to store and prepare this delicious cut of meat.

What is Beef Outside Round?

Beef outside round comes from the rear leg of the cow and is a beef cut known for its versatility and affordability. This cut is lean and has little fat marbling which makes it ideal for people who are watching their fat intake. The beef outside round is composed of three main muscles: the top round, the bottom round, and the eye of round. The muscles are relatively tough because they are large and used for walking, so they require slow cooking and often can benefit from marinating. Beef outside round is commonly cut into thin slices, cubed or ground to use in a variety of dishes. It is a great source of protein, zinc, and iron that are necessary for healthy immune function, strong bones, and other benefits.

Health Benefits of Beef Outside Round

Beef outside round is a lean protein source that is a great addition to a balanced diet. It is high in iron, which helps the body form red blood cells and carry oxygen to cells and tissues. It is also a good source of zinc, which enhances immune function, and vitamin B12, which is important for brain health and the formation of red blood cells. Additionally, beef outside round contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is a type of healthy fat that may support weight loss, lower inflammation, and improve heart health. However, it is important to note that beef outside round, like all red meat, should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Nutritional Value of Beef Outside Round

A 1 oz serving of beef outside round contains about 52 calories, 9 grams of protein, and 1.7 grams of fat. It is also a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. The calorie count and nutritional value can vary depending on how the meat is prepared, i.e. grilled, roasted or fried. When choosing a healthy, lean protein, beef outside round is a great choice with its balanced mix of protein, iron and other important nutrients.

Cooking Tips for Beef Outside Round

Beef outside round is relatively tough, and overcooking it can make it dry and difficult to chew. Therefore, it is essential to cook it properly to maximize its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to cook beef outside round: 1. Marinade: Marinade the beef outside round in a flavorful liquid to help tenderize it and add some extra flavor. Some great marinade options include Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.

Best Recipes with Beef Outside Round

Incorporate beef outside round into your meals in several different ways. Here are some best recipes with beef outside round which can guide you in your cooking journey: 1. Carne Asada: Marinate thinly sliced beef outside round in a mixture of lime juice, orange juice, cumin, garlic, chili powder and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side. 2. Beef Stew: Cut the beef into small cubes and slow cook along with vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, and onions in thick beef broth finished with red wine for added flavor.

Comparison of Beef Cuts

Beef outside round is one of the leanest, most affordable beef cuts, but it is not the only option out there. Here are some beef cuts that you can try for different occasions and recipes: 1. Beef Chuck: Beef chuck is a flavorful and versatile meat cut, perfect for making stews, pot roast, and hamburgers. 2. Beef Ribeye: Ribeye is one of the most flavorful and tender cuts of beef. It is perfect for grilling, broiling, or pan-searing.

Where to Buy Beef Outside Round?

You can find beef outside round at any local grocery store, butcher shop, or online meat delivery service. If preferred, you can also contact a local farm to ensure fresh, locally sustained beef is available to you. When purchasing beef outside round, look for meat that is bright red in color and appears fresh. The meat should also be kept refrigerated, and proper hygiene should always be followed when handling raw meat. If you are unsure about the quality, always go with a reputable supplier or look for ratings and recommendations.

How to Store Beef Outside Round?

Storing beef outside round is simple, and there are a few basic rules to follow. Raw, uncooked beef should be kept in the fridge in a sealed container or vacuum-sealed bag, with the temperature set at 40°F or below to prevent bacteria growth. If you plan to store the beef for longer than a few days, consider freezing it. The meat can be kept in the freezer for up to six months in its original packaging or for nine to 12 months if vacuum-sealed. When freezing, label the package with the date, and avoid thawing and refreezing the meat as it may impact its flavor and texture. Also, do not store cooked meat and raw meat in the same container or on the same surface to avoid cross-contamination.

How to Prepare Beef Outside Round?

Preparing beef outside round requires a little creativity as the cut is relatively tough. But when done properly, it can be flavorful and tender. Here's how to prepare beef outside round: 1. Tenderize with a Meat Mallet: Before cooking, tenderize the meat with a meat mallet to break down the muscle fibers and make the beef more tender. 2. Marinate: as this cut needs extra love, marinate it in acidic liquid like vinegar or citrus juice at least for 2-3 hours. This breaks down the proteins, so they become more tender.

Interesting Facts about Beef Outside Round

Beef outside round is a very versatile beef cut, but there are a few interesting facts about it that you might not know: 1. Beef outside round is also known as London broil, and it is a popular choice in the United States. 2. In Mexico, beef outside round is the preferred cut for carne asada, which is a popular dish that is found throughout the country.