Are you confused about the different ratios of ground beef available in Canada?
Do you wonder what 80/20 ground beef means and how it affects the taste and texture of your burgers?
Look no further!
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 80/20 ground beef in Canada.
From the fat content to the best uses for this blend, we’ve got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to become a ground beef expert!
What Is 80/20 Ground Beef In Canada?
80/20 ground beef is a popular blend of ground beef in Canada. This ratio refers to the percentage of lean meat to fat in the blend. Specifically, 80/20 means that the ground beef is 80% lean meat and 20% fat.
While this may sound like a high fat content, it’s important to note that a significant portion of the fat will render out during cooking. This results in a moist and juicy burger that’s full of flavor.
When shopping for 80/20 ground beef, it’s best to look for meat that was ground and wrapped in-store. This type of ground beef is typically found in shallow styrofoam trays with plastic wrap pulled across them.
Understanding The 80/20 Ratio
If you’re new to cooking with ground beef, you may be wondering what the 80/20 ratio actually means. Essentially, this ratio refers to the proportion of lean meat to fat in the ground beef blend. In the case of 80/20 ground beef, it means that 80% of the blend is lean meat, while the remaining 20% is fat.
It’s worth noting that this fat content may seem high, but much of it will render out during cooking. This is especially true when cooking on a grill or in a pan, where the fat will melt away and help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
In fact, the 80/20 ratio is often considered to be the ideal blend for making burgers. It has enough fat to keep the flavor high and prevent the meat from drying out, but it’s also lean enough to hold its shape and prevent flare-ups on a grill.
When shopping for 80/20 ground beef, it’s important to choose meat that was ground and wrapped in-store. This ensures that you’re getting fresh meat that hasn’t been sitting around for too long. Look for shallow styrofoam trays with plastic wrap pulled across them, and avoid pre-packaged ground beef if possible.
If you’re concerned about the fat content in your ground beef, there are other options available as well. For example, you can look for leaner blends like 90/10 or 95/5, or even purchase a lean whole cut of meat like sirloin or brisket and grind it yourself. This will give you more control over the fat content and ensure that you’re getting fresh, high-quality meat without any additives or preservatives.
Benefits Of Using 80/20 Ground Beef
Using 80/20 ground beef has several benefits, including enhanced flavor and moisture retention. The fat content in this blend is sufficient to keep the meat from drying out while cooking, but not so much that it causes flare-ups on a grill. This makes it an ideal choice for making burgers, which require a balance of fat and lean meat to hold their shape and stay juicy.
In addition to its taste and texture benefits, 80/20 ground beef is also a good source of nutrients. It contains high amounts of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. A quarter-pound burger made with 80/20 ground beef delivers about 20 grams of protein, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
80/20 ground beef is also rich in B vitamins, including B12, niacin, B6, and riboflavin. These vitamins play a vital role in converting food into energy, forming new red blood cells, and enhancing cognitive function. Additionally, 80/20 ground beef contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fatty acid that has been linked to improved immune function and reduced risk of certain diseases.
How To Cook With 80/20 Ground Beef
Cooking with 80/20 ground beef is easy and delicious. Here are some tips to make sure you get the most out of your ground beef:
1. Use a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to break the ground beef into pieces. This helps ensure that the meat cooks evenly.
2. Press the beef into an even, flat layer in the pan, almost like you’re making a big hamburger. This will help create a nice sear on the meat.
3. Cook the ground beef until it turns into a grayish brown color and you hear a searing sound as you stir and toss it.
4. For your safety, the USDA recommends cooking ground beef to a minimum of 160°F as measured by a food thermometer. This ensures that any harmful bacteria are killed off.
5. If you’re making burgers, 80/20 ground beef is the iconic ratio for juicy and flavorful patties. It has enough fat to keep the flavor high and keep the meat moist, while being lean enough to keep the shape of the burger patty.
6. If you’re cooking with 80/20 ground beef in a recipe that calls for baking, make sure to check the internal temperature of the meat with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center. It should read 160°F.
Remember that rinsing and draining ground beef can reduce its fat content by 50 percent, but it’s not necessary when using 80/20 ground beef since it already has a good balance of fat and flavor. With these tips, you’ll be able to cook up delicious meals with 80/20 ground beef in no time!
Tips For Buying And Storing 80/20 Ground Beef
Here are some tips for buying and storing 80/20 ground beef:
1. Check the sell-by date: When shopping for ground beef, make sure to check the sell-by date. Choose meat that was freshly ground that day or the day before.
2. Look for bright pink-red color: Ground beef should have a bright pink-red color with visible flecks of meat and fat in it. Avoid meat that looks pale or pasty, as it may have been ground too many times.
3. Ask your butcher: If possible, ask your butcher to grind the meat on the spot for you. Let them know what you’re making and how lean you want it, and they can make a recommendation.
4. Store it immediately: Ground beef is perishable, so it’s important to store it in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Keep it in the coldest part of your fridge, which is typically the bottom-back.
5. Use it or freeze it: Raw beef shouldn’t be stored in the refrigerator for more than 2 days, so use it or freeze it within that time frame. Ground beef can be frozen for up to 3-4 months if stored properly.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your 80/20 ground beef is fresh and safe to eat.
Alternatives To 80/20 Ground Beef
If you’re looking for alternatives to 80/20 ground beef, there are plenty of options available that are both nutritious and delicious. Here are some alternatives to consider:
1. Ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef that is high in protein and low in fat. It’s a great option for those looking to cut back on saturated fat and calories.
2. Tofu: Tofu is a plant-based protein source that is low in fat and high in protein. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to tacos.
3. Portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms have a meaty texture and can be used as a substitute for ground beef in many recipes. They’re low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great option for those watching their weight.
4. Tempeh: Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that is high in protein and low in fat. It has a nutty flavor and can be used as a substitute for ground beef in many recipes.
5. Textured vegetable protein: Textured vegetable protein (TVP) is a plant-based protein source made from soybeans. It has a texture similar to ground beef and can be used as a substitute in many recipes.
6. Beans: Beans are a great source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent alternative to ground beef. They can be used in chili, tacos, and other dishes.
7. Cauliflower: Cauliflower can be grated or chopped finely to create a texture similar to ground beef. It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
8. Seitan: Seitan is a meat substitute made from wheat gluten. It has a texture similar to meat and can be used as a substitute in many recipes.
When choosing an alternative to 80/20 ground beef, it’s important to consider the nutritional content of the ingredient, as well as its flavor and texture. Experiment with different options to find the one that works best for you and your family.
