Are you a meat lover in Sacramento looking for the ultimate indulgence?
Look no further than Wagyu beef, known for its incredible marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
But where can you find this premium beef in Sacramento?
We’ve rounded up some of the best spots in town, from craft butcheries to specialty markets.
Whether you’re looking for a special cut for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to something truly decadent, read on to discover where to buy Wagyu beef in Sacramento.
Where To Buy Wagyu Beef In Sacramento?
1. Oto’s Market: This family-owned and operated meat processing facility in Sacramento offers a variety of high-quality meats, including their own dry-aged USDA Prime and Wagyu Rib Eye. They also carry Japan Wagyu A5 and Oto’s Imperial Wagyu, as well as Niman Ranch Prime and First Light Grass Fed beef.
2. Specialty Markets: If you’re looking for a wider selection of Wagyu beef, check out specialty markets like the Middle Eastern market that offers halal goat, lamb, beef, and chicken. You can also find hard-to-find cuts like A5 Wagyu beef at some family-owned shops.
3. Craft Butcheries: Craft butcheries like the one run by a former Le Cordon Bleu chef instructor offer pasture-raised beef, pork, and lamb, as well as fresh sausages and deli meats made using traditional techniques. These butcheries may also offer classes on butchering and cooking techniques.
What Is Wagyu Beef?
Wagyu beef is a type of beef that comes from specific breeds of cattle originating in Japan. The word “Wagyu” means Japanese cow, and these cows are known for their high levels of marbling, which contributes to their tenderness and flavor. The most well-known breed of Wagyu is the Kobe beef, which comes from the Tajima strain of Wagyu cattle raised in the Hyogo prefecture of Japan.
Wagyu beef is highly prized for its unique flavor and tenderness, which is achieved through a combination of genetics and feeding practices. The cattle are raised on a special diet that includes high-quality grains and grasses, as well as beer and sake, which are believed to enhance the marbling and flavor of the meat.
In recent years, Wagyu beef has become increasingly popular in the United States, with many restaurants and specialty markets offering this premium meat. However, it’s important to note that not all Wagyu beef is created equal, and there are different grades based on factors such as marbling, color, and texture. When purchasing Wagyu beef, look for reputable sources that can provide information about the specific breed and grading of the meat.
Benefits Of Eating Wagyu Beef
Wagyu beef is not only a delicious indulgence, but it also offers a range of health benefits. Unlike regular beef, Wagyu beef contains a high percentage of monounsaturated fats, which are considered “good fats.” These fats are essential for energy and cell growth, and they can also help to lower cholesterol levels. In fact, Wagyu beef has significantly lower cholesterol levels than traditional beef. Additionally, Wagyu beef is rich in essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which have been linked to a lower risk of serious health conditions like cancer, Alzheimer’s, and cardiovascular disease. The unique fatty acid profile of Wagyu beef also contributes to its signature buttery, umami flavor. Raised for quality rather than quantity, Japanese Wagyu cattle are carefully bred and raised in excellent conditions, resulting in a higher quality meat that is more nutritious and flavorful. While it’s important to consume all meats in moderation, even conservative portions of Wagyu beef can be strikingly satisfying due to its rich flavor profile. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to regular beef or simply want to indulge in a delicious treat, Wagyu beef is an excellent choice that offers both taste and nutrition.
How To Cook Wagyu Beef
Cooking Wagyu beef requires a delicate touch to ensure that you don’t overcook this luxurious meat. While there are different methods for cooking Wagyu beef, we recommend starting with a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. Here’s how to cook Wagyu beef to perfection:
1. Take your Wagyu steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This will ensure that the steak cooks evenly.
2. Generously season your steak with kosher salt on both sides.
3. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Grease the pan lightly with butter, olive oil, or the fat cut from the edges of your Wagyu steak.
4. Once the pan is hot, place the steak on the skillet and cook for about a minute and a half.
5. Flip the steak and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches about 120 to 125 degrees for rare or 130 to 135 degrees for medium rare. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
6. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for at least five minutes before slicing into strips. This allows the meat’s fibers to relax, widen, and reabsorb those delicious juices.
If you’re looking for a different cooking method, you can also try grilling or pan-frying your Wagyu beef. When grilling, make sure to monitor and handle the steak carefully to avoid fire due to its high amounts of marbling and juices. For pan-frying, follow similar steps as above, but cook on medium heat and remove from direct heat after 2-3 minutes on each side.
Remember, Wagyu beef is best enjoyed medium-rare, so avoid overcooking it to fully appreciate its sweet, buttery flavor and luxurious texture.
Other Wagyu Beef Products To Try In Sacramento
In addition to the places mentioned above, there are also other wagyu beef products to try in Sacramento. One option is to visit a local Japanese restaurant that specializes in wagyu beef dishes. These restaurants often source their meat from high-quality suppliers and prepare it using traditional Japanese techniques. Another option is to look for online retailers that offer wagyu beef products, such as steaks, burgers, and sausages. These retailers may offer a wider selection of cuts and grades of wagyu beef than local markets and butcheries. Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own wagyu beef dishes at home using recipes and tips from online resources and cookbooks. With its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, wagyu beef is a unique and delicious addition to any meal.
