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Eating a meat-heavy diet doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As a busy working mom, I’ve mastered the art of fueling my carnivore lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Here are 19 budget-friendly hacks to help you enjoy your favorite meats while keeping your wallet happy!
1. Buy in Bulk and Freeze
One of the best ways to save on meat is to buy it in bulk. Whether you’re grabbing beef, pork, or chicken, purchasing larger quantities often means lower prices per pound. Divide the meat into portions, wrap them well, and store in the freezer. This way, you’ve always got a stash of meat ready to go.
2. Opt for Cheaper Cuts
You don’t need to stick to expensive cuts like ribeye. Cheaper options like chuck roast, pork shoulder, or chicken thighs are just as delicious when cooked properly. These cuts may be tougher, but slow cooking or braising can make them melt-in-your-mouth tender.
3. Embrace Ground Meat
Ground meats are budget-friendly and versatile. You can use ground beef, pork, or turkey in burgers, meatballs, or chili. Plus, ground meat often goes on sale, making it even more cost-effective to stock up and freeze for future meals.
4. Use Every Part of the Animal
Organ meats like liver and heart are not only nutritious but also inexpensive. They’re perfect for stretching your budget while adding variety to your meals.
5. Stock Up During Sales
Take advantage of grocery store sales to stock up on meat. When you find a great deal, buy extra and freeze it for later use. This strategy helps you save money and ensures you always have meat on hand, reducing the temptation to eat out.
6. Cook in Batches
Batch cooking is not only time-saving but also cost-effective. Prepare large portions of stews, chili, or roasts, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Batch cooking reduces waste and ensures you always have a homemade meal ready.
7. Explore Discount Stores
Don’t overlook discount grocery stores or warehouse clubs like Costco. These places often offer meat at lower prices, especially when bought in bulk. Plus, you might find deals on organic or grass-fed options, allowing you to enjoy premium meat without the premium price tag.
8. Make Your Own Broth
Instead of buying expensive pre-made broth, make your own by simmering bones with water and optionally, apple cider vinegar. Homemade broth is flavorful, nutritious, and a great way to use up every part of the animal. Plus, it freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store it for later. Here’s an easy carnivore recipe from Primal Edge Health.
9. Buy Directly from Farmers
Consider buying a quarter or half cow directly from a local farmer if you have the space. This way, you’ll get a variety of cuts at a lower price per pound while supporting local agriculture. Plus, you can request specific cuts to suit your preferences.
10. Make Your Own Jerky
Making your own jerky is easy and cost-effective. All you need is a lean cut of meat, salt for seasoning, and a dehydrator (or your oven). Homemade jerky is a great portable snack, and you can customize the flavors to your liking. For consistent, premium jerky, consider a subscription to Jerky Club, where you can explore new flavors of high-quality jerky each month.
11. Use Leftovers Creatively
Never let leftovers go to waste—repurpose them into new carnivore-friendly meals to stretch your budget. For example, turn leftover roast chicken into a hearty chicken broth or use shredded beef to make beef patties or wraps with cheese and eggs. This approach not only saves money but also keeps your meals satisfying and aligned with your carnivore lifestyle.
12. Don’t Be Afraid of Fat
Fatty cuts like pork belly or beef short ribs are often less expensive and incredibly flavorful. Instead of trimming the fat, embrace it—it adds richness and can make simple dishes feel indulgent. Roast pork belly for a crispy, satisfying meal.
13. Grind Your Own Meat
Buying whole cuts and grinding them yourself can save you money and give you control over the quality of your ground meat. Use a food processor or a meat grinder to do it at home. Once you try homemade ground beef, you might never go back. Learn how to do it with this guide from America’s Test Kitchen.
14. Buy Meat Close to Its Sell-By Date
Many grocery stores discount meat that’s close to its sell-by date. As long as you plan to cook or freeze it right away, it’s a great way to save money. Just be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before buying.
15. Consider Meat Subscriptions
Meat subscription boxes can be a cost-effective way to get high-quality meat delivered to your door. Many services offer bulk discounts, and you can choose the cuts you receive. This can save you time and money while ensuring you always have a variety of meats on hand. Check out ButcherBox for a popular option.
16. Use Your Slow Cooker
Slow cooking is perfect for cheaper, tougher cuts of meat like brisket or pork shoulder. Cooking low and slow breaks down the connective tissue, resulting in tender, flavorful meals. Plus, you can make large batches and freeze the leftovers.
17. DIY Sausages
Making your own sausages at home can be a fun and economical way to enjoy a variety of flavors. You can control the ingredients and avoid the preservatives found in store-bought sausages. All you need is ground meat, salt, and casings. Check out this DIY sausage recipe from Hunt Gather Cook.
18. Learn Basic Butchery
If you’re really looking to save, consider learning basic butchery skills. Buying whole chickens or larger cuts of meat and breaking them down yourself can be significantly cheaper. Plus, you’ll get more out of each cut, and the leftover bones can be used for broth.
19. Plan Your Meals
Planning your meals around what’s on sale or in season can lead to significant savings. By creating a weekly meal plan and shopping list, you can avoid impulse buys and ensure you’re using up everything you buy. It also helps reduce waste and makes sticking to your budget easier.
Enjoy Meat on a Platter!
There you have it – 19 money-saving hacks that let you enjoy a carnivore diet without breaking the bank. With a little planning and creativity, you can feast on your favorite meats while sticking to your budget. Happy cooking!
