Derek Wolf's Top Affordable Steak Cuts - Exclusive
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
There are few things as mouth-watering as a perfectly cooked steak. However, as we all know, that deliciousness comes with a price. A good steak isn't cheap — even one you plan to grill at home. The finer cuts are certainly the most desirable, but they carry the heftiest price tag, leading many to believe that having a great steak just isn't in the budget. Luckily, outdoor grilling expert Derek Wolf is here to dispel that notion.
Wolf, who worked in the corporate world before turning his passion for barbecue into a career, has amassed more than 2.2 million followers on Instagram for his account, Over The Fire Cooking. Wolf is also the author of two cookbooks, including the soon-to-be-released "Flavor by Fire."
In an exclusive interview with Tasting Table, Wolf shares some under-the-radar steak cuts that are not only delicious — but, more importantly, will fit into your budget.
These cuts are less expensive, but just as delicious as the more popular steaks
According to Derek Wolf, the three major cuts of steak that people gravitate toward are filet mignon, ribeye, and New York strip, all of which are pretty expensive. "I think that there are other steaks that represent them well, that are a little cheaper," he says. "Now, I can't say they're as cheap as they used to be, but people are starting to find them." For fans of filet mignon, Derek recommends teres major, a butcher's cut that he describes as "smaller but just as tender" as the filet and carries a "little bit more fat."
Wolf also suggests a chuck ribeye. Though perhaps more difficult to find, he says it is "infinitely cheaper than a ribeye." According to Wolf, the reason this cut may be harder to find is because butchers usually grab them first. He says the chuck ribeye will provide you with lots of meat and notes the top half is "super tender."
His last budget-friendly recommendation is for New York strip lovers. The picanha, or top sirloin cap, is a cut that is very popular in Brazil, as it is one of the most flavorful (via Steak School). Normally available at the butcher, Derek says, "If you can trim some of the fat off of that and serve it up, it's very, very, very similar to a New York strip."
There you have it — three affordable steak cuts that will satisfy your dinner table and wallet. Anyone up for a steak?
Derek Wolf's new cookbook, "Flavor by Fire," will be released September 6, but pre-orders are currently available on Amazon. You can find recipe videos for Wolf's numerous out-of-the-box eats on the Over The Fire Cooking YouTube channel.