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Unlock the Secrets of Affordable Beef Cuts

When it comes to cooking on a budget, few options are as versatile and delicious as chuck steak and chuck roast. These affordable beef cuts can elevate your meals with slow cooking techniques, and understanding the differences between them can make all the difference.

What is Chuck?

Chuck is an inexpensive beef cut that comes from the muscle between the neck and shoulder blade of the beef cattle. This tender and flavorful meat is often overlooked, but it’s a treasure trove of culinary possibilities.

The Difference Between Chuck Roast and Chuck Steak

So, what’s the difference between chuck roast and chuck steak? Simply put, it’s the cut. A chuck roast is a larger cut of meat that includes part of the blade bone, cut in a cylindrical or oblong shape with the grain running in the same direction as the long side of the meat. A chuck steak, on the other hand, is that same piece of meat, but cut into 1- to 2-inch thick slices.

Cutting and Cooking Chuck

To cut a chuck roast, simply measure out equal portions and use a longer chef’s knife for an even edge to each slice. You can even save money by buying a chuck roast, slicing it into steaks, and freezing it. Both meat cuts are tough, so slow cooking is the way to go. Try stewing or braising in liquid, or cooking in a skillet pot roast with herbs and spices.

Slow Cooker Recipes to Try

The slow cooker is ideal for cooking chuck roast and chuck steak. Here are five mouth-watering recipes to try:

Slow Cooker Beef Stew

A 3-pound boneless chuck roast is the perfect starting point for this hearty winter stew. Add in carrots, celery, mushrooms, peas, and parsley for a nutrient-packed meal that cooks in just 5 hours.

Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Sandwiches

Pick up a 3 or 4-pound chuck roast and get ready for some delicious barbecue, no matter the weather. With a short list of ingredients, you can create a flavorful sauce and tender meat that’s perfect for sandwiches.

Garlicky Pot Roast

Roast some garlic and use it as part of a brown sugar marinade on the chuck roast. Then, add in a rich sauce made with Guinness and crumbled gingersnaps for a truly unique flavor profile.

Red Wine-Braised Beef with Apple Gremolata

Tender chuck roast soaked in red wine, onions, garlic, celery, carrots, rosemary, bay leaves, and thyme creates a complex flavor profile that’s elevated by the addition of Granny Smith apples and parsley.

Beef Bourguignon

This French comfort food classic is a boozy delight, with brandy or cognac and red wine combining with herbs, pearl onions, and button mushrooms. Serve it over mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles for a truly decadent meal.

With these recipes and a little creativity, you can unlock the full potential of chuck steak and chuck roast. So why not give them a try and discover a world of flavor and affordability?