Wagyu beef is regarded as a luxury food when it comes to fine dining, with its premium status comes a lot of myths about this meat that simply aren’t true. Let’s look at a few of the truths and myths behind American Wagyu so you can better understand what you are getting when you purchase this flavorful beef.
Myth: All American Wagyu is the same
One common myth that makes the rounds is that all wagyu beef is the same. However, wagyu beef varies greatly depending on where the cattle are raised. American Wagyu cattle are raised in many areas of the country including Arizona. These cattle are treated the same way the original Japanese Wagyu cattle are raised and reared. The main difference between Japanese Wagyu and American Wagyu beef is the grading system. You may have heard of A5 wagyu. This is the Japanese grading system. American Wagyu has its own grading system set up by the USDA and American Wagyu Association. Each organization has its own grading system based on color, maturity and marbling to ensure the highest industry standards and authenticity. Check for these gradings when purchasing American Wagyu.
Truth: It’s not unhealthy
Many people like to argue that American Wagyu beef is unhealthy due to its high fat content. However, this isn’t exactly true. While you should take notice of your own personal health and how much red meat you should consume, American Wagyu beef provides many vitamins and nutrients. American wagyu is full of monosaturated fats that have been shown to lead to better heart health. This meat also contains a variety of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, making it healthier than traditional beef you purchase at the grocery store.
Myth: American wagyu cattle listen to classical music while being massaged
Something you may have seen on a show like 60 Minutes or other news programs is that wagyu beef cattle listen to classical music, get massages and drink beer to get their natural amazing flavor. This isn’t exactly true. While that one farm on the news may do that, most wagyu, especially American Wagyu farms do not participate in these practices. The cattle are treated well and live a different life than traditional beef cattle as they are allowed to roam and eat off the land while being supplemented with other foods without hinderance from outside sources. The idea that you gather a bunch of cows together to listen to Beethoven for a couple hours a day is a bit of a marketing plug though.
Truth: American Wagyu requires the proper cooking method
When it comes to cooking American Wagyu, it can be a bit of daunting task. You spent the money on the meat, so you don’t want to mess it up when cooking it. However, it isn’t really that difficult. The better you understand this meat the better when it comes to cooking it. Due to its high fat content, American Wagyu requires a different approach than your traditional steak from the grocery store. Start by cooking the meat on high heat for a couple of minutes on each side to help render the marbling of fat. Allow the fat to start melting and then flip and make sure to cook each side. When it comes to American Wagyu it is best to sear on all sides and allow to cook to a rare or medium rare to bring out all the flavors within the meat. Never cook American Wagyu over medium rare as you will lose its full flavor profile. Once you get it to medium rare slice it up and enjoy. When eating always slice against the grain.
Truth: It doesn’t have to be expensive
Japanese Wagyu and American Wagyu beef has a reputation of being expensive or out of reach price wise for the average person. This isn’t really the case. American Wagyu beef can be purchased from reputable providers at a reasonable price if you do your research. Farms such as (………) are raising amazing American Wagyu beef to present to the public that you can purchase through online stores or at the farms themselves. Be aware that certain steaks and other cuts off beef will have different price points. So, even if you are on a budget there is a cut for you to enjoy. No matter the cut of wagyu you choose you can be sure it will provide that unique flavor and have all the great nutrients and good fat you need in your life. Once you taste it you probably won’t go back to traditional store-bought beef.
American Wagyu is a unique and indulgent choice for lovers of high-quality beef. While many myths exist about this luxury product most of them just aren’t true. Understanding how American Wagyu is raised, it’s nutritional value and more can help you appreciate this specialty meat that much more.
Author:
Michael Stalter is the Founder of Terra Market in Scottsdale, Arizona. Terra Market is a family-owned business bringing Arizona raised American Wagyu beef and Iberian pork from their farm to your table.