| America's family farmers bring you the freshest, safest and most abundant food supply at the best prices paid anywhere in the world. The average U.S. citizen pays just 10 percent of their income for food. In India, by contrast, people pay over 50 percent!
Today's meat products are leaner than in the past, as a result of America's changing diet and efforts to reduce fat. For example, overall, pork is 30 percent lower in fat than it was 20 years ago!
This major change in the meats you choose for dinner means that you may need to change your cooking practices to maximize flavor and preserve texture. Here are some tips:
- Consider a quick sear on high heat on the outer surfaces of meats before turning the heat down to finish cooking. The searing will seal the juices inside your steak, chop or roast.
- Use a meat thermometer to make sure you don't overcook lean meats. Overcooking can make meats tough. In general, cooking to 160-170 degrees F is all that is recommended.
- Learn the proper way to use the type of meat thermometer you own. Improper use can result in improper results.
- When meat has finished cooking, allow it to rest before slicing, carving or even serving. Just a few minutes allows the juices to set and improves taste and texture.
- The benefits of lean meat can be negated by pouring a high-fat sauce over it! Use dry rubs, marinades or cooking sauces which are low in fat and high on flavor.
- Put time on your side. If you allow more time for rubs or marinades to penetrate the meat, the flavor will be more intense. If you don't have time, try some of the prepackaged marinated meats in your grocer's case.
- Save money by purchasing larger cuts of meat, which often cost less per pound. Serve a roast one night for dinner, then carve up the leftovers for lunches, nachos, or a second dinner meal!
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