Meat Processing Equipment for a Healthy Kitchen
Not all meat is created equal. While high-quality, unprocessed lean meat from grass-fed animals is packed with vital nutrients, the additive-laden lunch meats and other highly processed meat products you can buy in supermarkets have been linked to all sorts of health problems.
So, what do you do if you love lunch meat and meat balls but you also care about your health? You equip your kitchen with meat processing tools so you can replace those store-bought meat products with healthier, home-made options!
Today, meat slicers, grinders and other types of meat processing equipment are readily available in all price ranges, so almost every home cook should be able to afford at least some basic meat processing equipment. Below, we take a look at some of the most essential kitchen tools and appliances for health-conscious, meat-loving home cooks:
Meat Slicers
Electric meat slicers are no longer just for butchers and chefs working in big kitchens! Today, electric slicers come in a variety of sizes, so even home cooks with limited counter top and storage space should be able to find a model that fits in their kitchen. It's worth noting, though, that the best electric meat slicers can cost several hundred dollars. It is important to keep in mind, though, that while the initial investment can be hefty, there's a good chance your your meat slicer will soon pay for itself because beef roasts, whole turkey breasts and other unprocessed pieces of meat and poulty are simply much cheaper than packaged, pre-sliced meat. What's more, the best slicers available on the market not only process meat but they also slice other types of foods such bread, cheese and firm vegetables. Here are some reviews, comparisons and other articles that should help you make an informed decision when choosing a meat slicer for your kitchen:
- Deli Meat Slicers for Home Use – List of compact slicers perfect for home use
- Meat Slicers for Professional Use – Comparison of slicers perfect for pros
- Meat Slicers with Built-In Sharpeners – Slicers with built-in sharpening stones
- Comparison of Chef's Choice Slicers – How to pick the best Chef's Choice slicer
Meat Grinders
Store-bought ground meat may be a practical choice, but it rarely beats the quality of home-ground meat. The pre-packaged ground meat that supermarkets sell is usually made from the not-so-good bits that are left over once steaks and roasts have been carved off the animal, and each serving can contain meat from dozens, if not hundreds, of animals, all processed together. By grinding meat at home using a meat grinder or food processor, you'll have a lot more control over the quality of the meat you're planning to eat. Here are some tools that the hassle out of grinding meat at home (as always, the focus is on non-toxic kitchen appliances made from safe materials such as stainless steel):