Corned beef is pretty much in everything. It has that real savory taste, and you can put it in all kinds of meals. And in Costco, there are tons of corned beef options, so even picky eaters can find something they wanna choke down.
This post is all about the corned beef choices at Costco. I’ll run down what they got, how much it costs, and if it’s any good or not. Also, I’ll give you some tips on what to watch out for when buying so you don’t just waste your money. Let’s begin.
Types of Costco Corned Beef
1. Corned Beef Round
Costco’s corned beef round, although nothin’ special compared to their other stuff, is usually from that Shenson brand. It comes from the cow’s butt area and ain’t got much fat on it. This cut of meat tastes good and beefy when you cook it right. It also comes with some seasoning to make it even tastier while it’s cooking.
Cooking Tips
If you wanna make sure that corned beef round is juicy and not too tough, boil it in some liquid. That way, the meat won’t dry out on you, so you get a real tender and delicious piece of beef.
2. Brisket Variation
This fatty cut of meat ain’t gonna be tender unless you slow cook the heck out of it. Costco’s got a few brands to choose from, like Paddy O’Neil’s or Shen sons. Whichever one you get, it’s fat content will really determine how tender and tasty it turns out. Some are fatter than others, so choose wisely.
Price Trends
When we talk prices, everything’s gone up like crazy recently. Costco was charging nearly six bucks a pound for Morton’s Omaha corn beef last year. Pricey, indeed. It was only like $4.79 the year before. However, you gotta pay up, if you want quality meat, and this one is worth it.
Preparation
If you want that brisket to be any good, slow cooking is an absolute must. Don’t even think about rushing it. This cut’s perfect for all you fat lovers out there who want a rich, juicy corned beef experience.
3. Canned Variation
Brands like Hereford or Bill Baileys – they ain’t gonna win any awards for flavor or tenderness, but they’ll fill you up in a pinch without going bad right away. Not great, but still, decent options if you’re going for canned variation.
As for when to eat the canned stuff, let’s be real – you’re not popping the can for some fancy dinner party. It’s for quick lunches, so you don’t have to cook or if you can’t get your hands on fresh meat. But don’t kid yourself – it’s still gonna be rubbery and tasteless compared to what you get if you put in a little effort. So maybe just keep it as an absolute last resort.
Is Costco Corned Beef Good Quality?
It is sourced from reputable butchers and is known for being tasty, tender, and reasonably priced. Despite its affordability, there’s a clear focus on maintaining quality and freshness.
Price
Fresh corned beef at Costco ranges between $3.60 per pound (sale price) and $4.79 per pound (regular price). Prices vary depending on location, time of year, and specific product.
Market Comparison
Costco’s pricing is competitive when compared with other retailers like Walmart, Safeway, and Kroger. For instance, Safeway’s prices for corned beef range from $7.99 to $10.99 per pound, making Costco a more budget-friendly option.
What To Look For When Buying Costco Corned Beef
- Quality Indicators: Look for a reddish-pink tinge with white marbling, a firm texture, and a uniform cut. A small fat cap is acceptable but avoid overly thick ones.
- Size Considerations: Choose a weight and size suitable for the number of servings needed. Remember that corned beef shrinks during cooking, especially at higher heat.
- Freshness: Check the sell-by date and the color of the meat. Fresh corned beef should be red or pink; any grey or brown hues indicate it’s not fresh.