If you're looking for a lean, flavorful cut of beef, you can't go wrong with 3 oz of beef top round, trimmed to 0" fat, select grade, cooked, and braised. This cut of beef is a great source of protein and other essential nutrients, and it can be used in a variety of healthy and delicious dishes. With just 170 calories per serving, it's a smart choice for anyone who wants to enjoy red meat without breaking their diet.

According to the USDA, 3 oz of cooked beef top round contains 26 grams of protein, which makes up 52% of the daily value (DV) for this nutrient. It also contains small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. With just 2 grams of fat per serving, beef top round is a leaner choice than many other cuts of beef. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling and broiling to slow cooking and braising.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits of beef top round, as well as the best ways to prepare and serve this versatile cut of beef. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you're sure to find something to love about this flavorful and nutritious meat.

Calories in Beef Top Round

As we've already mentioned, 3 oz of beef top round contains just 170 calories. This makes it a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the flavor and nutrients of red meat without overloading on calories. However, it's important to note that the calorie count can vary depending on how you prepare the meat. For example, if you use oil or butter to cook the beef, this will add extra calories to your dish.

Fat Content in Beef Top Round

3 oz of cooked beef top round contains just 2 grams of fat, making it a very lean source of protein. However, it's important to note that not all cuts of beef are this lean. If you're watching your fat intake, it's best to choose lean cuts of meat like beef top round, sirloin, or tenderloin.

Protein in Beef Top Round

As we mentioned earlier, 3 oz of beef top round contains 26 grams of protein, which makes up 52% of the daily value (DV) for this nutrient. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in your body, as well as for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and skin. If you're trying to build muscle or recover from a workout, beef top round is a great choice of protein-rich food.

Vitamins and Minerals in Beef Top Round

Beef top round is also a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals. For example, 3 oz of cooked beef top round contains 1.5 mg of iron, which is 8% of the DV for this nutrient. Iron is essential for carrying oxygen in your blood and preventing anemia. Beef top round also contains small amounts of zinc, vitamin B12, and other nutrients that are important for overall health.

Cooking Techniques for Beef Top Round

Beef top round is a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Some of the most popular cooking methods include grilling, broiling, slow cooking, and braising. When grilling or broiling, it's important to cook the meat over high heat for a short amount of time to keep it tender and juicy. When slow cooking or braising, it's best to use low heat and a long cooking time to break down the connective tissue and make the meat more tender.

Health Benefits of Beef Top Round

In addition to being a rich source of protein and other essential nutrients, beef top round has several potential health benefits. For example, it may help boost your metabolism and support healthy weight loss thanks to its high protein content. It may also help improve immune function, prevent anemia, and reduce inflammation in the body.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Top Round

Beef top round can be used in a variety of delicious and healthy recipes. Some popular serving suggestions include slicing it thin for sandwiches or wraps, using it as a taco filling, or incorporating it into a stir-fry or stew. Beef top round pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces, so feel free to get creative with your cooking!

Beef Top Round vs Other Cuts of Beef

While beef top round is a lean and flavorful cut of beef, it's important to note that not all types of beef are created equal. Some cuts are much higher in fat and calories than others, so it's important to choose the right cut for your nutritional needs. For example, sirloin and tenderloin are both leaner cuts of beef that are also rich in protein and other nutrients. However, fattier cuts like prime rib or ribeye may be better reserved for occasional indulgences.

Select Grade vs Other Grades of Beef Top Round

When it comes to beef top round, there are several different grades of meat to choose from. Select grade is a lower quality of beef than choice or prime grade, but it's still a perfectly good option for many home cooks. Select grade beef tends to be leaner and have less marbling than higher grades, which makes it a good choice for anyone who is watching their fat intake. However, it may be slightly tougher and less flavorful than choice or prime grade beef.

Braised vs Other Cooking Methods for Beef Top Round

One of the best ways to prepare beef top round is by braising it. Braising involves cooking the beef slowly in a liquid, such as broth or wine, until it becomes tender and flavorful. This method is great for tougher cuts of meat like beef top round, since it helps break down the connective tissue and create a juicy and tender final product. While grilling or broiling can also be used to cook beef top round, braising is a great way to infuse the meat with flavor and create a satisfying one-pot meal.