Are you looking for a lean and healthy protein source that still delivers great flavor? Look no further than beef eye of round! In a one pound serving cooked and roasted to perfection, this choice grade cut packs in 735 calories.

But don't let the calorie count scare you away - beef eye of round is a great source of essential nutrients like iron, protein, and vitamin B12, and can easily fit into a balanced and healthy diet.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the benefits of beef eye of round, as well as some tips and tricks for cooking and serving it.

Calories in a Serving of Cooked Beef Eye of Round

In a one pound serving of beef eye of round, cooked and roasted to perfection, you'll get 735 calories. While that may seem like a lot, keep in mind that beef eye of round is a great source of protein - a nutrient that can help you feel full and satisfied for longer. It can also provide important vitamins and minerals to keep your body functioning properly.

Macronutrients Present in Beef Eye of Round

In addition to its calorie content, beef eye of round is a great source of protein, with 125 grams per serving. It also contains just 7 grams of fat and 4 grams of saturated fat. These macros can help promote satiety, build and maintain lean muscle mass, and support overall health and wellbeing. However, this cut is not an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, or other vitamins and minerals. So, it's crucial to include a balanced, nutrient-dense diet alongside your beef eye of round consumption.

Vitamins and Minerals in Cooked Beef Eye of Round

Beef eye of round is packed with important vitamins and minerals that help support a healthy body. For instance, it is rich in iron, phosphorous, selenium, and zinc. Iron promotes sufficient oxygen transport in the blood, phosphorus facilitates healthy bone and cellular health, while selenium supports thyroid functioning and immunity. Zinc, on the other hand, is vital for wound healing and metabolic processes in the body. Not to mention, beef eye of round is also flush with B vitamins, which play a tremendous role in supporting the brain, nerve, and cardiovascular health.

Health Benefits of Beef Eye of Round

By incorporating lean beef eye of round into your diet, you can experience myriad health benefits like improved appetite control, bone health, and metabolic functioning. Its nutrient-rich profile will also help support your immune system and promote overall well-being. Additionally, this cut is lower in calories and fat compared to other beef cuts, making it an ideal choice for those looking to lose excess body fat or control their weight. Its high protein content will also assist in preserving and building lean muscle mass crucial for healthy metabolism and body composition management.

Cooking Techniques for Beef Eye of Round

Beef eye of round is ideal for slow-cooking or braising methods, including roasting, pot-roasting, and even pressure cooking. When cooking beef eye of round, it is important to keep the temperature low and slow, as this cut is a bit lean and can become tough when cooked at high temps. Alternatively, you can also slice beef eye of round into thin strips for stir-fries or use it as the protein source in hearty stews and chili recipes. In general, beef eye of round is versatile and can be adapted to many different recipes and cooking methods.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Eye of Round

Since beef eye of round is a lean cut, it pairs well with colorful and nutrient-rich vegetables like roasted carrots, sautéed greens, and crispy Brussels sprouts. You can also serve it with whole grains like quinoa, farro, or brown rice to add a satisfying texture and flavor to the dish. Alternatively, you can also slice beef eye of round thinly and use it as a topping for salads or grain bowls, or even stuff it inside wraps and sandwiches. Be creative, and aim to incorporate a wide range of nutrient-dense foods alongside your beef eye of round for a complete and balanced meal.

Comparison of Beef Eye of Round with Other Cuts of Beef

Compared to other cuts of beef, like ribeye or T-bone steaks, beef eye of round is generally lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier and more weight-loss-friendly option. It is still high in protein (about 31 grams per 3-ounce serving), making it a filling and satisfying meal option. Other types of beef, such as ground beef or brisket, may be higher in fat or calories. However, these cuts may also be more flavorful and tender, depending on how they are prepared.

Why Choose Lean Beef Eye of Round

In general, incorporating lean protein sources like beef eye of round in your diet can help you feel fuller for longer, making it easier to control your appetite, lose weight, or achieve your fitness goals. Additionally, choosing lean beef cuts can help boost your body's metabolism, optimize the insulin response, and promote muscle building or maintenance. Moreover, beef eye of round is packed with essential nutrients required for overall good health, making it a great choice for those striving to adhere to a nutritious, balanced diet.

Tips for Purchasing and Storing Beef Eye of Round

When buying beef eye of round, look for packages that are bright red and well-marbled. If possible, choose grass-fed, organic beef to minimize the amount of hormones, antibiotics, or other additives that may be present. For storing, it's best to keep beef eye of round in its original packaging until you are ready to use it. You can also freeze it for later use by wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a resealable bag. Remember to always thaw your beef eye of round in the refrigerator and not on the counter, as this can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage.

Possible Health Risks of Consuming Beef Eye of Round

While beef eye of round is generally a safe and nutritious food choice, there are some possible health risks to be aware of. For instance, beef may contain harmful bacteria like E. coli, which can cause foodborne illnesses if not cooked or handled properly. To minimize these risks, make sure to cook beef eye of round to a safe internal temperature (around 145°F) and wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly before and after handling beef. If you are at a higher risk for foodborne illness (e.g., pregnant or immunocompromised), you may want to avoid consuming beef altogether.