1. Buy Cheaper Cuts and Learn How to Cook Them

Many people automatically go for premium cuts of meat, but lesser-known cuts can be just as tasty and cost significantly less. Butchers often have a selection of affordable cuts that are overlooked by supermarket shoppers.

Budget-Friendly Cuts to Ask For:

• Beef Brisket: A flavourful cut that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked.
• Pork Shoulder: Great for slow-cooked dishes like pulled pork.
• Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: More flavourful and cheaper than chicken breasts.
• Lamb Neck or Shoulder: Ideal for slow-cooked stews and casseroles.
• Ox Cheeks or Shin: Perfect for slow cooking, offering rich and hearty flavours.

How to Make the Most of These Cuts:

• Slow Cook for Maximum Flavour: Cheaper cuts often benefit from slow cooking, breaking down tough fibres to create tender, delicious meals.
• Marinate for Extra Tenderness: A simple marinade with vinegar, citrus juice, or yoghurt can help break down tougher meats.
• Batch Cook and Freeze: Make large portions of slow-cooked meals like stews or casseroles and freeze them for future use.

Tip: Ask your butcher for advice on the best way to cook budget-friendly cuts—they often have expert knowledge on how to get the best flavour.

2. Buy in Bulk and Ask for Deals

Buying meat in larger quantities can often lead to big savings. Many butchers offer discounts when you purchase in bulk, and they may even be willing to customise your order if you ask.

Ways to Save When Buying in Bulk:

• Ask for Bulk Discounts: Many butchers offer discounts when you buy larger quantities—just ask!
• Split Large Packs: If you can’t use a bulk order all at once, split it into meal-sized portions and freeze for later.
• Look for Family Packs: Butchers often sell larger portions of minced meat, chicken, or sausages at a reduced price per kilo.
• Join a Meat Share: If bulk buying seems too much, consider splitting a large order with friends or family to get the savings without excess meat.

How to Store Bulk Meat Safely:

• Divide meat into portion sizes before freezing to make it easier to use later.
• Label and date your frozen meat to keep track of what needs to be used first.
• Use freezer bags or airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Tip: If you visit your butcher regularly, ask if they have any special deals on bulk purchases—they may even let you know when discounts are coming up.

3. Use Offcuts and Less Popular Meat Products

Many butchers have meat offcuts or trimmings that don’t get sold in pre-packed portions but are still perfectly good for cooking. These are often available at a much lower price.

Budget-Friendly Offcuts to Look For:

• Chicken Carcasses or Wings: Perfect for making homemade stock or soups.
• Beef or Lamb Bones: Great for broths, which can be used as a base for stews and gravies.
• Pork or Beef Fat: Can be rendered down to make cooking fat for roasting or frying.
• Minced Offcuts: Butchers often grind leftover meat into mince, which is cheaper than pre-packaged mince.

Ways to Make the Most of Offcuts:

• Make Your Own Stock: Simmer bones with vegetables and herbs for a rich, homemade stock that beats shop-bought versions.
• Use Minced Offcuts for Budget Meals: Turn cheaper mince into meatballs, burgers, or cottage pie.
• Try Homemade Sausages or Burgers: Some butchers sell sausage meat separately, which can be used to make homemade burgers or meatballs.

Tip: Ask your butcher if they have any offcuts or trimmings for sale—many butchers will happily provide these at a discount.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Choose cheaper cuts of meat and learn how to cook them properly for great flavour and savings.
• Buy in bulk to take advantage of discounts and portion the meat for future use.
• Ask for offcuts and bones to make homemade stocks, soups, and affordable meals.
• Speak to your butcher—many are happy to recommend affordable options and cooking tips.

Shopping smart at your local butcher can help you significantly reduce your food bill while still enjoying high-quality meat. With these simple hacks, carers can make the most of their budget while preparing delicious, nutritious meals. For more money-saving tips and support, visit CarersCardUK.