If you're looking for a delicious and nutrient-dense meal, a beef shoulder steak grilled to perfection might just do the trick. At only 155 calories per serving (85.0 g), it's an excellent source of high-quality protein that can help fuel your body and nourish your muscles.

In addition to protein, beef shoulder steak is packed with essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12 that can support healthy blood cells and brain function. It's also a great source of zinc, selenium, and phosphorus, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and optimal immune function.

Whether you're trying to lose weight, build muscle, or simply eat a well-rounded diet, beef shoulder steak can be a tasty and nourishing addition to your meal plan. Keep reading to discover more reasons why this protein powerhouse deserves a spot on your plate.

Rich in Protein and Essential Nutrients

As mentioned earlier, beef shoulder steak is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. But it's not just about protein - this cut of beef also contains a wide range of other essential nutrients that your body needs to thrive. For instance, a 3-ounce serving of beef shoulder steak provides 25% of your daily recommended intake (DRI) of vitamin B12, 17% of your DRI of zinc, and 11% of your DRI of iron. These nutrients are critical for maintaining healthy blood cells, supporting immune function, and promoting overall vitality. So if you're looking for a nutrient-dense food that can help support optimal health and wellness, beef shoulder steak is definitely worth considering.

Low in Calories and Fat

Despite its rich nutritional profile, beef shoulder steak is relatively low in calories and fat compared to other cuts of beef. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of grilled beef shoulder steak contains only about 155 calories and 5.7 grams of fat, making it a relatively lean choice for meat lovers. Of course, the exact calorie and fat content will depend on how you prepare your steak. Grilling or broiling your beef without added oil or butter can help keep the calorie and fat counts in check, while still imparting plenty of delicious flavor. Seasoning your beef with herbs and spices instead of high-fat sauces can also help reduce the overall calorie and fat load of your meal. So if you're watching your calorie and fat intake but still want to enjoy the rich taste and nutritional benefits of beef shoulder steak, be sure to prepare it in a way that keeps things light and healthy.

Boosts Energy and Metabolism

Thanks to its protein and nutrient content, beef shoulder steak can be a great food choice when you need reliable energy and metabolism support. Protein helps regulate blood sugar levels, keeping you feeling fuller for longer and preventing energy crashes or sugar cravings. Additionally, the iron content in beef shoulder steak can also help support healthy energy levels by promoting healthy red blood cell formation and oxygen transport throughout the body. This can help reduce feelings of fatigue and increase mental clarity and focus. To maximize the energy-boosting benefits of beef shoulder steak, try pairing it with other high-energy ingredients like leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like avocado or nuts. This can create a well-rounded meal that fuels your body and supports healthy metabolism.

Enhances Muscle Growth and Repair

As mentioned earlier, beef shoulder steak is a rich source of high-quality protein which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Eating protein-rich foods like beef shoulder steak after a workout can help replenish amino acids lost during exercise and promote muscle recovery and growth. Additionally, the iron content in beef shoulder steak is also important for muscle function since it helps deliver oxygen to your muscles when you exercise. This can help improve endurance and reduce muscle fatigue, allowing you to train harder and longer. To enhance the muscle-building benefits of beef shoulder steak, consider pairing it with other high-protein, muscle-supporting foods like eggs, Greek yogurt, or legumes. This can create a hearty and satisfying meal that promotes optimal muscle health and fitness.

Good for Heart Health

Contrary to popular belief, beef shoulder steak can actually be a heart-healthy food choice when prepared in the right way. For starters, it's a rich source of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of healthy fat that can help promote healthy cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, beef shoulder steak is also a good source of potassium, a mineral that supports healthy blood pressure and heart function. However, it's important to note that the sodium content of beef can sometimes offset these benefits, so be sure to consume it in moderation and pair it with low-sodium ingredients whenever possible. To prepare beef shoulder steak in a heart-healthy way, try grilling or broiling it with plenty of fresh herbs and spices instead of high-sodium seasonings like soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Adding heart-healthy veggies like asparagus, peppers, and onions to your meal can also help boost its nutritional value and promote optimal heart health.

Improves Bone Health

Beef shoulder steak is also an excellent food choice when it comes to supporting healthy bones and preventing osteoporosis. This is because it's a good source of essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are all critical for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Additionally, the vitamin D content in beef shoulder steak can also help improve bone health by promoting calcium absorption and regulating bone growth and remodeling. This can help reduce the risk of fractures and other bone-related issues later in life. To enhance the bone-building benefits of beef shoulder steak, try pairing it with other bone-supporting foods like leafy greens, dairy products, and fortified grains. This can help create a nutrient-dense meal that strengthens your bones and supports optimal physical function.

Helps in Weight Loss

While it may seem counterintuitive, beef shoulder steak can actually be a helpful food choice when it comes to weight loss. This is because it's high in protein, which can help reduce appetite and prevent overeating. Protein also has a higher thermic effect than carbs or fats, meaning that it requires more energy to digest and metabolize, which can help burn more calories overall. Of course, it's still important to keep the calorie and fat content of your meals in check if you're trying to lose weight. To incorporate beef shoulder steak into a calorie-conscious meal plan, be sure to measure out your portions carefully and pair it with plenty of low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, non-starchy veggies, and whole grains. You can also experiment with different cooking methods to keep your beef shoulder steak flavorful without adding excess calories or fat. Grilling, broiling, or roasting your beef with flavorful herbs and spices can create a delicious and satisfying meal that won't derail your weight loss efforts.

Easy to Cook and Versatile

One of the best things about beef shoulder steak is how easy and versatile it is to cook with. Whether you want to throw it on the grill for a quick and easy dinner or slow-cook it in a hearty stew, this cut of beef can handle a wide range of cooking methods and flavor profiles. Some other popular ways to prepare beef shoulder steak include searing it in a cast-iron skillet, oven-roasting it with root vegetables and herbs, or marinating it in a bold and tangy sauce for added flavor. You can also slice it thinly and use it in stir-fries, tacos, or salads for a quick and satisfying meal. So if you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use ingredient that can add protein and flavor to any meal, beef shoulder steak is definitely worth adding to your culinary arsenal.

Great for Outdoor Grilling

When the weather is nice and you're in the mood for a hearty and satisfying meal, grilling beef shoulder steak can be an excellent choice. Grilling not only helps enhance the rich and savory flavor of the beef, but it's also a quick and easy way to prepare it without adding excess fat or calories. To grill beef shoulder steak to perfection, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Season your steak with a mix of salt, black pepper, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember to let your steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving - this will help ensure that it stays juicy and delicious. You can also experiment with different marinades, rubs, and seasoning blends to create a truly unique and flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Ideal for Low-Carb and Keto Diets

If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, beef shoulder steak can be an excellent food choice since it's high in protein and low in carbohydrates. This can help keep you feeling full and satisfied while also supporting healthy weight loss and metabolic function. Some popular low-carb and keto-friendly ways to prepare beef shoulder steak include grilling it with low-carb veggies like zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms, or pairing it with a creamy and indulgent sauce made from cheese, cream, or mayonnaise. You can also use thinly-sliced beef shoulder steak as a replacement for high-carb ingredients like rice or pasta in soups or stews. Overall, beef shoulder steak can be a versatile and delicious addition to any low-carb or keto meal plan. Just be sure to measure out your portions carefully and pair it with plenty of fiber-rich and nutrient-dense veggies for optimal health and wellness.