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Costco is known for so many great things, but did you know that cheese is one of them? The cheese selection is vast—hello, cheese board!—and many of the best kinds hail from the warehouse club's own Kirkland Signature brand.
There are so many products from the Kirkland Signature line that Costco fans adore. Costco even reported during its quarterly earning call in March that sales of Kirkland-brand foods increased 1.5% over the past year.
That's with good reason. They are usually more reasonably priced and many of the best Kirkland-brand products are actually made by national name brands like Starbucks, Duracell, and Huggies, as The Motley Fool reports. Identities of other manufacturers remain a closely guarded secret.
Regardless of who makes it, many customers actually prefer certain Kirkland brand products over their rival brand-name equivalent, and that's no different in the cheese aisle.
RELATED: 13 Facts About Costco's Rotisserie Chicken
One exception: the giant bags of shredded cheese. Although Kirkland makes them in many varieties, they often become a regrettable purchase unless you have a reason to go through a 2.5-pound bag in less than a week. If you are going to try one, though, Costco shoppers on Reddit claim the Colby Jack lasts the longest.
So, grab your feta, your gouda, your manchego, and more. Here are 10 Kirkland brand cheeses to pick up on your next shopping trip.
Whether you choose to put it out for guests on a cheese board or tear through it yourself like some Redditors do, this cheese flight is a welcome new addition to the Kirkland offering of cheeses. You'll get to try five nice sized cheeses, for $23.99. The package in total is 1.8 pounds, with familiars like cheddar and chevre, and less common picks like fontal and comtesse.
These BellaVitano cheeses—that come in a variety of washed rinds like Cabernet Sauvignon ($8.69 per pound) or Scotch Whiskey ($8.99 per pound)—are made in partnership with Sartori, an award-winning Wisconsin cheesemaker. One Redditor describes the flavor of the cabernet variety as "like parmesan but different. It is sweeter, and more tart."
From personal experience, this is an excellent cheese for snacking throughout the week, and it's always a big hit when served with cocktails.
Fans on Reddit point out that this delicious English cheddar has been around Costco for a while, but more recently became branded as Kirkland Signature Coastal Cheddar. Regardless of what name is on the outside, it's a fan favorite and, according to one Redditor, "makes a damn good grilled cheese."
This feta is imported from Greece and comes in blocks—the crumbled stuff tends to dry out more quickly—both good signs of quality feta. "We bought this a couple of weeks ago," one Redditor wrote. "I personally thought it was not as sharp/tangy as the usual brand we buy (President), but others in my household seem to like it for that very same reason and have been sprinkling it over salads quite often." So if you are looking for a milder Greek feta, this is a great pick at $11.99 in the warehouse for 28.2 ounces.
Who doesn't love a good baked brie? A good French brie will generally cost around the same price as the Costco one but for half the price. This imported French brie is a fan favorite, and according to the Instagram, Costco Food Reviews, it's "creamy and buttery" and "I could truly taste the quality difference compared to other Bries I've tried in the past." Pick up a 21.1 ounce round brie for $9.99.
You'll get a lot of bang for your buck with this goat cheese that gives you two 10.5 ounce logs for $8.69 online. While this may seem like a lot of goat cheese, you can use it for everything from making a tangy cheesecake to crumbling it up for a salad or spreading it out toast with a little honey. You can freeze the unopened second log of goat cheese, too.
This Kirkland cheese has been around for years and with good reason. Imported from Spain, this sheep's milk cheese is a good pick for those who are lactose intolerant as sheep's milk tends to be easier to digest. The nutty mild taste of this cheese makes it a great add to a charcuterie board or just a switch up from your regular cheese. It'll run you around $10.99 per pound in the warehouse .
Kirkland makes a great parmesan reggiano for $10.99 a pound, typically more in grocery stores because Parmesan Reggiano are made in Italy under pretty strict standards which is what makes it so delicious. The blocks are big but last a while in the fridge. To get more mileage cut them into two or three pieces and vacuum seal the ones you won't use right away so they stay extra fresh.
Although we personally prefer the block of Parm Reggiano, we do understand the convenience of the shredded version. While some report the cheese molding quickly, many Redditors solve that problem by keeping the jar in the freezer so there's no condensation. If you can't go with the block, this Italian cheese is still high quality even if it doesn't last as long. You can find a 16 ounce container for $13.99 in store.
While Redditors may admit that this is a convenience play and that they could probably pack their own cheese, fruit, nuts and chocolate, that doesn't stop them from buying the pack of 16 for $11.99. After all, these do make a good high protein snack. Sharp cheddar is paired with cashews and dried cranberries or white cheddar with roasted almonds and cranberries. Great for on-the-go.
The post 10 Best Kirkland Brand Cheeses You Should Buy at Costco appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Let the nutrition pros help you find the healthiest frozen food at Trader Joe's, as well as those that you should steer clear of if you want to keep your eating on track. Trader Joe's is known for selling a wide variety of unique frozen foods, including cuisine inspired by Japan, China, the Caribbean, along with numerous vegetarian choices. Their fresh take on frozen foods makes Trader Joe's a go-to for shoppers looking for quick fixes to get dinner on the table during harried weekdays.
These days, even health-conscious shoppers will have plenty of options when browsing through the Trader Joe's frozen food sections. Over the past decade, many food manufacturers have made humongous strides to create better frozen options that have less sodium and saturated fat, and provide more vegetables, whole grains, and essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
However, not all Trader Joe's frozen foods are created equal. Some can be loaded with sodium, added sugar, and often lack veggies, fiber, and lean proteins. Here, we highlight the best and worst frozen meal options available at Trader Joe's right now.
Trader Joe's offers a range of nutritious frozen meals that can be a convenient and balanced part of your diet. The popular supermarket chain has numerous vegetarian frozen options, veggie-rich dishes, and lean protein-rich choices that provide both great taste and high nutritional value. I always recommend looking for meals that contain whole food ingredients, lean proteins, fiber, and limited amounts of sodium and added sugars.
"It's important to read through the ingredient list first, advises Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, CSSD, a Los Angeles-based sports dietitian and author. "The ingredient list on a healthy pre-made frozen meal should read like a recipe you could have made yourself. In addition to simple, recognizable ingredients, assess the ingredient quality, meaning if it is made with whole grains over refined grains and what type of oil it contains. Ingredients are listed in order by weight, so ingredients higher on the list make up more of each bite," adds Sass.
Registered dietitian Patricia Bannan, M.S., R.D., author of From Burnout to Balance recommends that shoppers choose frozen foods that meet these nutrient targets:
Below are the recommended options for healthier frozen meals from registered dietitians, as well as some options to skip. Only some of these items are listed on the Trader Joe's website, but all of them can be found in most TJ stores. And for more helpful shopping tips, check out 9 Healthier Ice Creams That Actually Taste Good, Say Dietitians.
Trader Joe's has a variety of frozen shrimp options, but this one contains two ingredients: shrimp and salt. Frozen shrimp is one of the best ways to add delicious lean protein to meals in a snap, and seafood in general is one of the best ways to get high-quality protein for fewer calories. What's more, frozen shrimp is versatile, so you can enjoy them in endless ways like stir-fries, tacos, as part of pasta dishes, and hearty salads.
RELATED: The 8 Healthiest Frozen Dinners at Trader Joe's
This frosty fan favorite is an Instagram sensation that fans constantly gush about and share their stories on how to make wholesome meals with thes cauliflower-based treats. The Cauliflower Gnocchi is made with just 5 ingredients and is a nutritional all-star, thanks to the cauliflower base. In addition to being lower in calories and fat, the gnocchi are high in fiber and naturally gluten-free. I love them when they are air-fried, but you can also pan fry, boil, microwave, or bake them for a delicious and healthy meal.
Instead of a saturated fat-rich beef burger, how about a mahi mahi burger for your next cookout? The TJ's Mahi Mahi Burgers are another best pick from the Trader Joe's frozen foods aisle. Mahi Mahi is rich in omega -3s, B-vitamins, magnesium, potassium, and selenium. You can enjoy these burgers prepared on the grill, in an oven, or pan-fried. Serve on a whole wheat bun and with your favorite veggie condiments for a healthy meal.
Trader Joe's fans say that this Asian-inspired meal knocks it out of the park. It has delicious, lean chicken and lots of vegetables, including shitakes, green beans, and edamame. Nutritionally, it's relatively low in calories, saturated fat, and added sugar, yet it packs in 20 grams protein per serving. Serve with ½-cup cooked brown rice and you'll have a satisfying meal that beats ordering out.
RELATED: 25 Best Healthy Frozen Pizza Pies, According to Dietitians
This TJ shrimp dinner gets great reviews for its delicious taste online, but it's not a nutritional all-star. Tempura shrimp are always a crowd-pleaser, but Trader Joe's Tempura Shrimp come with a sweetened soy dipping sauce that has 2 teaspoons sugar and the sodium counts are sky-high. The calories in the serving size are modest, but that's mostly due to the puny serving size of just 3 ounces of shrimp—or 3 and 1/3 shrimp.
RELATED: 8 Unhealthiest Frozen Foods at Trader Joe's, According to Dietitians
These savory meat pies are one of the unhealthiest options we could find in the frozen aisle at Trader Joe's. They are a healthy eater's worst nightmare. You'll get 50% of your total daily sodium intake with one serving and more saturated fat than you should have in an entire day!
Even eating half a pie would derail your healthy eating goals. The bulk of the calories, fat, saturated fat, and low-quality carbs come from the buttery crust. Plenty of online reviewers also complain about the pies being all crust and having little meat.
Even though the Meatless Cheeseburger Pizza is considered a vegetarian choice, a "cheese burger" pizza is likely a good cue that this is not the best option. The problem with this pizza is that a 1/3-pie serving size contributes 25% of all the saturated fat and more than 1/3 of the sodium that you should have in an entire day. The saturated fat comes from the cheese and faux, plant-based ground beef crumbles made from pea protein. The ingredient list of this pizza also reads like a novel.
The package boasts that these corn dogs are uncured and have no nitrates or nitrites, but the nutrition label shows just how unhealthy these dogs are for you.
These dogs are considered an ultra-processed food with more than 30 ingredients and several sources of added sugars, including sugar, molasses, maltodextrin, and honey. They are also shockingly high in sodium, with two corn dogs contributing nearly 40% of the sodium you should have in a day. Steer clear of these carby, salty dogs.
A Jamaican patty is beef and vegetables in a pastry, making a deliciously seasoned ground beef pie. Nutritionally, these made our worst picks because of the high total fat, saturated fat, sodium, and low-quality carbohydrates. One patty packs in 440 calories, 50% of the saturated fat and 25% of the sodium that you need in a day. The soaring saturated fat and sodium counts make these patties a risky choice when it comes to your heart's health. Like the Trader Joe's Steak and Stout Pies, online reviews of these patties also complain that the patties are light on beef.
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The post 9 Best & Worst Frozen Foods at Trader Joe's, According to Dietitians appeared first on Eat This Not That.
It's a time of transition for the greater restaurant industry. Many brands are still trying to find their footing post-pandemic and make financial sense of the astounding inflation we've all seen over the past year or so. Last year, however, turned out quite well for steakhouses. In pursuit of more food for their money, customers returned to steakhouse dining rooms in droves.
Texas Roadhouse, for example, reached $4 billion in sales for the first time ever in 2022. LongHorn Steakhouse, similarly, enjoyed a significant year-over-year increase in domestic sales as well ($1.8 billion in 2021, 2.3 billion in 2022). Fast forward a bit, and 2023 has already proven to be an especially eventful year for the steakhouse scene.
Earlier this month the steakhouse industry was rocked by the announcement of Ruth's Chris Steak House's pending sale to Darden Restaurants. Coming in at a cool $715 million, the acquisition is primed to change the steakhouse landscape as we know it. Besides owning the mega-successful Olive Garden Italian chain, Darden is already the parent company of fellow steakhouse chains LongHorn and The Capital Grille.
The inflation issue, meanwhile, is far from over. After raising prices in 2022, Bloomin' Brands (Outback, Fleming's) CEO David Deno recently told the Tampa Bay Times his company is going to do everything it can to maintain stable menu prices this year.
Texas Roadhouse, on the other hand, just announced a menu-wide price increase of 2.2%. "We believe this level of pricing sets us up to achieve a solid year of sales and profit growth, while furthering our industry-leading value. As many of you know, this approach has consistently rewarded our guests and shareholders over the past 30 years," CEO Jerry Morgan said during an earnings call earlier this year.
What else does 2023 have in store for steakhouse chains and patrons? Let's take a look at five big changes you'll see at steakhouses soon.
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Already one of the most recognizable names in the steakhouse game, Outback is in the midst of a transformative 2023. First announced last year, the chain is currently implementing an ambitious "Next Gen" redesign of its restaurants. New units will be smaller yet more space efficient, offer the latest in restaurant technology, and even feature dedicated takeout and curbside pickup areas.
"We intend to remodel over 100 locations this year at the beginning of a multi-year effort to touch a large percentage of our business," CEO David Deno recently explained to NRN. "We know keeping our assets looking at their best, along with our ongoing relocation program, is a key element to growing traffic. All this is about bringing in restaurant traffic back to pre-pandemic levels."
One of the first Next Gen Outback units to open is in Charlotte, N. C. Per The Charlotte Observer, while the restaurant is noticeably smaller, the new 5,000-square-foot design features an open floor plan, improved kitchen space, and just as much seating (187 people) as Outback's older, 6,000-square-foot locations.
"The smaller size also allows us to bring restaurants to areas where larger units may not have been possible," Outback President Brett Patterson told the outlet.
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Ordering a vegan dinner at a steakhouse sounds a bit like ordering a cheeseburger at a seafood restaurant, but up-and-coming fine-dining brand Fogo de Chão is all about breaking down boundaries. The 74-unit chain specializes in churrasco, or the mouthwatering Brazilian art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame, but if you ask CEO Barry McGowan, the brand is so much more than a steakhouse.
"We're just Fogo de Chão. We're not a churrascaria. We're not a steakhouse. We don't have to be prototypical," he told us in a recent interview. "Our demographic is 87% Millennial and Gen Z. We are a whole different occasion than a fine-dining steakhouse. We're just unique in the space."
While Fogo de Chão has long featured vegetarian and pescetarian dining options, like the Cauliflower steak, the chain announced the addition of two new vegan entrees earlier this year.
Patrons following a plant-based diet can try the Seared Tofu with Miso Black Bean Pasta, made up of Chimichurri-marinated tofu placed on top of protein-dense black bean pasta sautéed with green onion, Napa cabbage, pickled onions, and a carrot ginger-miso dressing. Not in the mood for pasta? The Roasted Power Vegetable Bowl featuring roasted eggplant, marinated mushrooms, roasted zucchini, asparagus, and baby peppers served alongside chimichurri spinach rice is also available. Both dishes are vegan and gluten-free.
Eateries and food-based businesses of all kinds are embracing technology nowadays to smooth out and speed up the customer experience, and steakhouses are leading the way in many respects.
Texas Roadhouse is currently rolling out "Roadhouse Pay," a convenient pay-at-the-table system, across all of its locations. As of February 2023, Roadhouse Pay was already live across over 600 restaurants. Moreover, Texas Roadhouse is also testing out mobile handheld ordering tablets and conducting a soft launch of a new kitchen display system, dubbed its "Digital Kitchen."
First implemented at locations in Minnesota and Texas, the new Digital Kitchen features screens at each kitchen prep station. That means no more paper ticket orders. A new Texas Roadhouse location that just opened in the Kansas City, Mo. area features a digital kitchen, and according to CEO Jerry Morgan, the chain is "probably committed" to installing the new kitchen system in 30 restaurants this year.
"This will be a big year for us when it comes to opening new stores with a Digital Kitchen and even converting some existing stores," he said on an earnings call. "So definitely going to be leaning on some technology to help us get faster and, really, we want to complement our service with technology."
Meanwhile, a couple of months before being acquired by Darden, Ruth's Chris Steak House noted during its Q4 2022 earnings call the development of an exciting new proprietary demand forecasting platform that's been integrated with the chain's labor management system. The end goal? More efficient schedules. According to Cheryl Henry, Ruth's Hospitality Group CEO, the system has already resulted in a 10% improvement in hours per entrée.
Expansion is what makes any chain restaurant a success, and plenty of steakhouse chains are set to branch out in major ways this year. Currently sitting at around 700 locations, Texas Roadhouse is aiming for 900 restaurants in the not-so-distant future. To that end, about 25-30 new units are slated to open in 2023 alone.
Outback plans on opening 75-100 of its Next Gen restaurants in the years to come, and Fogo de Chao has another 10 locations set to open this year. While the Brazilian chain only boasts a somewhat modest 58 domestic locations right now, CEO Barry McGowan believes there's potential for many, many more. "We know long term we can have 600 restaurants in America," he noted.
Darden Restaurants, meanwhile, recently noted that Q4 of this year will see a number in the "mid-teens" of new LongHorn Steakhouse restaurants opening their doors.
RELATED: 8 Steakhouse Chains Where You Can Try the Most Unique Cuts of Steak
The very first Sizzler opened in 1958 (at the time called the Sizzler Family Steak House), and the chain has been a pillar of casual dining ever since. Serving as an inspiration to countless newer brands, Sizzler has enjoyed periods of great success, boasting over 700 locations at one point in the 1990s. That said, having dealt with multiple bankruptcies, the company is also no stranger to adversity. Today, there are roughly 70 domestic Sizzler locations.
Looking to reinvigorate its brand positioning across all areas, Sizzler has announced a fresh new restaurant redesign that modernizes the chain all while embracing its impressive history. Sporting sleek digital displays, recycled wood paneling, and tile flooring, new locations will also feature a warm, inviting fireplace located near the front counter. One classic Sizzler feature that isn't changing, however, is the all-you-can-eat salad bar.
"It's really the centerpiece of our restaurant," Robert Clark, chief growth officer for Sizzler USA, told Fast Company. Redesigned salad bars will feature more open space above the bar, complemented by hanging planters and food-spotlighting lamps, as well as new surfaces and glass on sneeze guards, and sharp white surfaces to contrast a black holding area for the various pots of food.
The first redesigned Sizzler just opened a few months ago in Corona, California. More are set to open this year, and, if all goes according to plan, every Sizzler will be undergoing remodeling by next spring.
The post 5 Big Changes You'll See at Steakhouses This Year appeared first on Eat This Not That.
When it comes to making informed choices about the food and beverages we consume, it's important to know what to avoid as well. In a store full of juice options, not all brands are created equal, and some may be more detrimental to our health than we realize. To shed light on the less-than-ideal choices, we spoke with dietitian experts to compile a list of the juice brands that fall short with respect to nutrition and overall health.
From sugar-laden blends to misleading healthy claims, prepare to discover which juice brands to skip if you're working toward a healthier lifestyle. Also, for more tips to help you discern which foods are actually healthy versus the imposters, be sure to check out 7 'Healthy' Foods That Are Actually Worse for You Than Candy, Say Dietitians.
There are several common labeling strategies used to market store-bought juice products to create the perception of healthiness. Also known as "health halos," these claims and aesthetic choices are designed to draw consumers in and incite increased consumption of these products. However, many store-bought juices still contain a significant amount of sugar per serving.
Here are a few examples of the marketing tactics frequently used with juice products that may be misleading:
RELATED: Is Orange Juice Good For You? Here's What the Science Says
While it may be disappointing that not all store-bought juices are all actually as healthy as they appear or free from sugar-related pitfalls, there is a silver lining. By mastering the art of reading juice labels, you can navigate through the confusion and make informed choices.
A few key factors to look out for when shopping for genuinely healthy juice brands include finding:
Now that you know how to best identify fruit juice that is actually good for you, find out which juice brands are masquerading as healthy, nutritionally dense options that you'll want to steer clear of, per the advice of dietitians. Here's what RDs say are the most unhealthy 'healthy' juice brands in stores.
"While Bolthouse Farms' Green Goddess may seem like a nutritious choice with its blend of spinach, kale, and spirulina, a closer look at its nutritional profile reveals a significant problem," explains shares Jessie Hulsey, RD, an Atlanta-based dietitian."With a staggering 46 grams of total sugar, only 3 grams of fiber, and a mere 2 grams of protein per serving, this smoothie falls short of providing the balanced nutrition that individuals need. Excessive sugar intake, coupled with insufficient fiber and protein, can lead to blood sugar spikes, poor digestion, and a lack of satiety."
RELATED: Will Drinking Green Juice Really Make You Healthier? A Dietitian Breaks Down the Truth
Sarah Pflugradt, MS, RDN, CSCS, of Fueling Active Kids advises against Cranberry Juice Cocktails. "Cranberry juice cocktail sounds like a sip of healthy antioxidants, but go for the 100% juice if cranberry is your juice of choice. The 'cocktail' typically means it is loaded with added sugar," says Pflugradt.
For children under the age of two, juice is no longer recommended due to its high sugar and calorie content without many other nutrients. Ocean Spray's Cranberry Juice Cocktail is one example of how much-added sugar can be packed into cranberry juice. With 25 grams of sugar in 8 ounces, you'll meet the daily added sugar recommendation in just one serving!
"The PUR Cold Pressed Turmeric Lemonade juice may sound like a healthy choice containing anti-inflammatory turmeric, but with 22 grams of added sugar in a 16-ounce serving, that is far from something that will reduce inflammation. Consuming too much added sugar can raise blood pressure, blood sugar, and triglycerides (a common fat in the blood), which are all markers of inflammation," says Sheri Berger, RDN, CDCES.
PUR carries a line of shot-sized juices that might be a better way to get your fix. Packed with antioxidants and add nutrients, you can get your nutrition in a condensed serving size without the added sugars.
"The Ocean Spray Pure Unsweetened Concord grape juice leads you to believe they reformulated their popular grape juice to make it more nutritious for you," explains Brittany Delaurentis, RD. "However, with this rebrand, one cup of juice still is providing 37 grams of sugar and 39 grams of carbohydrates. Your best will always be snacking on some fresh grapes instead."
RELATED: 8 Science-Backed Benefits of Eating Grapes
When it comes to 'healthy' fruit juices that are in actuality not that great for your health, Patricia Kolesa, MS, RDN, tells us that "the first juice that comes to mind for me is Naked Juice."
"While many of them contain fruits and vegetables, some of them [such as the Blue Machine flavor] contain 50 grams of sugar or more," says Kolesa. "This is more than you might get from a can of soda! Too much added sugar from beverages in the diet can contribute to blood sugar spikes and 'sugar crashes' or low energy levels."
For a healthier alternative, Kolesa advises the following: "My recommendations would be to make your own juice—or smoothie—at home or eat whole fruits as often as possible!"
RELATED: 35 Worst Sodas To Stay Away From Right Now
In addition to avoiding the health halo claims noted above, you'll also want to take a second look at any juice labeled as "GMO-free" or claiming to have "no high fructose corn syrup," as these claims can also create a false sense of healthiness for certain juice products. Oftentimes, juice "cocktails" can still be pumped with added sugars.
This appears to be the case with Langers Mango Nectar juice, which despite its claim not to contain any high fructose corn syrup, still contains 40 grams of sugar, including 28 grams of added sugars per serving 10-ounce serving. That's a whopping 15% of your recommended daily limit for sugar for a tiny drink! Langers' ingredients are also primarily composed of filtered water and has minimal amounts of mango puree, citric acid, natural flavor.
Green might look like the color of health, but in this case, that facade might lead you astray. Lacking in fiber and abundant in sugar, Tropicana's Farmstand beverage fails to surpass the nutritional value of your typical juice. Despite the claim of providing two "servings of fruit and vegetables in every glass," it still doesn't contain any fiber that vegetables offer.
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The post The 7 Best 'Healthy' Juice Brands, According to Dietitians appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Grilling season is officially here. With Memorial Day weekend in full swing, it's prime time to grab the best cuts of meat and fire up your barbecue.
If you're planning on throwing a party, stocking up on meat for the biggest grilling weekend of the year is a must—and Sam's Club has an excellent selection of top-quality steaks.
"Our meat department is one of our members' favorite areas of the club, and they appreciate the quality and value they find there," says J.R. Binam, senior merchant at Sam's Club.
We asked Binam for all his top steak picks at the warehouse, so get your membership card and start making a list!
RELATED: How to Choose the Best Steak at the Grocery Store, According to Experts
The ribeye is one of the most popular steak cuts at Sam's. Binam recommends trying this boneless steak, which has the highest USDA Prime rating possible. (Always read the label for the USDA ratings: There are eight grades, with the best being Prime, Choice, and then Select.) "USDA Prime grade beef is one of the more popular categories with our members," Binam says.
The ribeye in particular is juicy, tender, and flavorful. Binam says Sam's Club sets high standards for its meat selection, and quality is its number one focus.
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The New York strip steaks are another popular option among members. The classic steak is wet-aged for 21 days for a deep flavor, then hand-trimmed and portioned. "We cut our steaks in-house with well-trained butchers who make sure each one is cut and trimmed just right," says Binam. A recent reviewer said of the cut, "Had these the other night. Great on the grill. Very flavorful and very tender."
Because it is awarded the highest USDA Prime grade, expect lots of marbling. "As a merchant, my job is to find the best quality items that our members are looking for, and our beef category selection is a great example of that," says Binam.
"This is one of my top picks for a family cookout," Binam says. If you're into slow-cooking beef for several hours, this is a great choice. Beef brisket is best prepared with moist or dry heat with apple or hickory wood. Binam says this cut is a favorite for people who compete in barbecue and other food competitions. "They often shop at our clubs to purchase the meat they use—from our Prime briskets to various cuts of pork," he says.
And it's great for a big group of people: "Amazing texture, flavor, moistness," one reviewer wrote. "Baked it low and slow. It turned out great and was the hit of our Christmas dinner party."
A family-friendly option, these ground beef patties are made with prime rib steak and pre-formed into perfectly bite-sized sliders. There's no fuss here, just pop them on the grill and lay out all the fixings for a DIY burger bar. "We have new brioche buns that pair well with these," Binam adds.
Juicy and flavorful, these mini burgers are a hit with reviewers: "These are absolutely next level amazing!! I fixed them up for the first time this weekend and my family was impressed!"
If sliders aren't your thing, these full-sized patties may be a better bet. Binam says this is another top pick among shoppers. Expect high-quality ground beef featuring prime rib. "I bought these for a Fourth of July cookout and to be honest they were the best burgers we have ever grilled," one reviewer wrote.
RELATED: 8 Best Kirkland Brand Meats You Should Buy at Costco
A pricey option for the serious steak lover, this is a top-tier Wagyu steak sourced directly from Japan. Binam says it's great for special occasions: "That's a Father's Day gift I'd love to get!" he says. "It's a great example of the extremely high level of quality we offer and at a great value."
The Wagyu can be shipped directly to your house through Sam's online ordering portal. "From premium seafood boxes to bison steaks and ground beef, members can have high-quality meat, seafood, poultry, and more delivered directly to their doorstep," Binam says.
The post 6 Best Steaks to Buy At Sam's Club appeared first on Eat This Not That.
What makes a great burger? For many chefs, it comes down to the quality of the meat. Ariel Fox, Vice President of Culinary for Del Frisco's Grille explains, "When it comes to burgers, you never want to just buy lean ground beef. Always opt for a blend such as brisket, short rib, and chuck. As for fat content, anything less than 20 percent fat is just going to taste dry and bland. Any good restaurant burger follows these rules!"
It doesn't end with meat, though, the bun is important as well, says award-winning Chef David Burke, who has burgers on the menu of every one of his 18 restaurants. "The bun is also important. The meat shouldn't be overwhelmed by it, as is often the case with the brioche buns used so often these days. They're so thick, the patty gets lost," Burke says.
With those qualifications in mind, and looking at reviews, fan raves, and our own personal experience enjoying burgers across the country, we gathered some of the best examples of chain restaurants with excellent burgers for all palates in the U.S.
RELATED: 6 Fast-Food Chains That Serve the Most Authentic Steakburgers
Texas Roadhouse—which wasn't founded in Texas—has over 600 locations in the U.S. and the restaurant's popularity shows no signs of slowing down. While we love the well-priced, hearty steaks, there's something about high-quality ground beef between buns that is so craveable. Texas Roadhouse's Smokehouse Burger, All-American Cheeseburger, and hearty Bacon Cheeseburger are a way to get all the deliciousness of the chain's steak in a handheld sandwich. The Smokehouse Burger is the most unique and is topped with sautéed mushrooms, onions, BBQ sauce, lettuce, tomato and onion, and American and jack cheeses; this hefty sandwich, which clocks in at 1080 calories, is served on a Texas-sized bun with steak fries and a pickle spear.
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Yes, you've been to Outback for the great steaks and sides, but don't sleep on the Outbacker Burger, which is a meaty half-pound burger topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, house-made pickles, and mustard. Served with one of Outback's freshly made sides, this burger is always cooked to order. If you're feeling adventurous and hungry, try the fan-favorite Bloomin' Burger. This beauty is a half-pound burger topped with the famous Bloomin' Onion petals, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, house-made pickles, onion, and bloom sauce. It's also packing 1,110 calories without sides, so be sure to split it with a friend.
Founded in California in the 1940s, there are now more than 200 restaurants around the world featuring the chain's exceptionally long menu. Cheesecake Factory calls its burger selection "Glamburgers." Its burger options include some tame classics like the Old Fashioned Burger—served with lettuce, tomato, and mayo—and a Bacon-Bacon Cheeseburger with two types of bacon.
Of course, you'll also find the over-the-top options the restaurant is known for like a French Dip Cheeseburger—served with au jus—a Macaroni and Cheeseburger topped with fried mac and cheese balls and cheddar cheese sauce. In case you're wondering, the Macaroni and Cheeseburger tips the scales at 1,340 calories. The French Dip Cheeseburger and Bacon-Bacon Cheeseburger are the most-outlandish burgers on the menu with 1,620 and 1,680 calories respectively.
Deviating slightly from the steak, steak, and more steak formula that has worked so well at Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse, Del Frisco's Grille has about 20 locations around the country. A self-described "New American bar and grill," diners will find slightly lower prices and a more casual menu, while still getting that steakhouse service and well-balanced cocktails they expect from Del Frisco's.
The menus vary by location, but you'll find burgers at all of them, and the standout is the Filet Burger, made with eight ounces of ground filet mignon and topped with aged white cheddar, melted onions, baby arugula, and butcher-cut bacon. It creeps over the $20 mark, but when you're ordering filet mignon, you're going to pay filet mignon prices. You can also try the Grille Cheeseburger with double-stacked beef patties, American cheese, lettuce, onion, and "sloppy sauce."
This growing chain sells organic and all-natural burgers in a sit-down setting, and it all started in Queens during the economic downturn in 2008. Only one thing was selling at owner Euripides Pelekanos' nightclub: grass-fed burgers. Seeing an opportunity he opened a tiny restaurant called Bareburger, and it's been a hit with healthy-minded burger lovers who love the well-crafted four-ounce burgers made from organic beef, turkey, elk, and vegetarian and vegan patties as well. Currently, there are 32 Bareburgers in the U.S.
With burgers in the restaurant name, it's no surprise this up-and-coming East Coast chain has a killer burger menu. You can find this small chain in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C., Beyond the burgers, which are made with 100% Certified Black Angus beef directly from ranchers in the Midwest that is hand-cut and ground in-house.
The burgers range from the Tavern Classic—with lettuce, tomato, onion, and special sauce—to a half-beef, half-pork burger called The Squealer. Check out the menu at your chosen location to see what other combos and toppings are available.
Bonus: It recently added a bourbon program that kicked off with prix fixe five-course dinners paired with the legendary Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. The chain also received Connecticut Magazine's best burger award in 2022.
A New York City classic, the original location of this small chain opened in 1884, and it's been serving a near-perfect burger ever since. For some historical context, it opened before the Statue of Liberty's torch was lit, and singer Buddy Holly proposed to his wife in the original location. Now, with locations in NYC, Philadelphia, and D.C., the restaurant has become a classic city burger bar, that serves Clarke Burgers.
These handhelds start with the classic Clarke (lettuce, tomato, and onion), and move all the way up to the Au Poivre Burger (topped with green peppercorn au poivre, griddled tomatoes, and onion strings). Pro-tip: Get the trip of mini burgers, you'll get to try a few versions. And absolutely get extra fries which are thin strings covered in sea salt and are crispy to the point of perfection.
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With six restaurants in Arizona, the concept of this burger bar—high-quality burgers and wine—is clearly resonating with diners. Zinburger's menu varies slightly by location, but expect a variety of burgers with high-end toppings including Danish blue cheese, Manchego, caramelized onions, wild mushrooms, onion rings, Applewood smoked bacon, and griddled sweet potato. The house Zinburger is available with certified Angus beef—or all-natural chicken or turkey—and is topped with Manchego cheese, Zinfandel braised onion, lettuce, and mayo.
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If you're looking for a simple and efficient way to strengthen your core, we have the perfect solution. We consulted Jarrod Nobbe, CPT, a certified personal trainer with Garage Gym Reviews, who delivers an incredibly easy yet effective 10-minute standing ab workout. And the best part? All you need is a pair of light dumbbells and a few minutes of your time. (No need to worry about getting on the floor or performing complicated exercises!)
Traditional ab workouts often involve floor exercises like crunches and planks, but this standing ab workout offers a refreshing alternative that can be done anywhere, anytime. Plus, dumbbells will add resistance to your movements, challenging your core muscles further and maximizing your results.
The beauty of this workout is its simplicity and convenience. Whether you're a beginner or a hardcore gym enthusiast, this routine is accessible for all. "Do these exercises as a circuit, one after another, for 40 seconds each, only resting as you set up for the next exercise," explains Nobbe. "Do repetitions for quality, not quantity, and take breaks to catch your breath or reset as needed. If you find your form failing early, try using lighter dumbbells."
Read on to discover a new, time-efficient way of working your abs with this standing ab workout. Find a small space in your home, grab some dumbbells, and let's get started! (And after you're finished, be sure to check out The #1 Standing Ab Workout for a Visibly Toned Six-Pack.)
The dumbbell woodchopper is a stellar ab exercise that targets your obliques and abdominal muscles. "This exercise targets your core all around, and it's a great movement to mimic twisting and lifting, which is common in daily life," says Nobbe.
Stand in an athletic stance with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold a single dumbbell with both hands. Extend your arms straight out in front of you with your hands at chest level. Keep your arms straight as you rotate your torso to the right and raise the dumbbell up and to the right, as if you were lifting an ax over your shoulder to chop wood. Your hips should turn with your torso, and your left foot will pivot as you rotate. Once you reach as high as your range of motion safely allows, rotate back, and lower the dumbbell down and across your body toward the opposite foot. Aim for four sets of 15 reps per side.
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The overhead dumbbell side bend is a simple yet effective exercise that will work your obliques, improve core strength, tone your waistline, and boost core stability. "This exercise works the obliques (the sides of your abs) and the core overall," states Nobbe.
Stand with your feet hip-width apart, and hold a dumbbell with one hand. Extend the arm holding the dumbbell overhead, keeping your core engaged and your spine aligned. Slowly bend your torso to the side, focusing on the contraction in your oblique muscles. Return to the starting position, and repeat on the other side. Do 20 reps per side for three reps.
Weighted overhead circles engage your entire core and help improve stability and balance. To perform the movement, Nobbe says, "Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and hold a dumbbell with both hands. Extend your arms fully above your head. Consciously engage your abs, and slowly move the dumbbell in a circle with your arms still extended, as if you were drawing a halo above your head. Do half of the reps in one direction, then switch directions to complete the remaining reps."
Avoid letting your back arch, and maintain good posture throughout this movement to avoid injury. Perform three sets of 20 reps (do 10 in one direction, then 10 in the other.)
The standing side crunch is a dynamic exercise that targets your obliques and ramps up overall core strength. "Hold a dumbbell in your right hand, and stand with your feet shoulder-width apart," instructs Nobbe. "Keep your right arm extended down at your right side. Place your left hand behind your head with your elbow pointing to the side. Brace your abs as you lower the dumbbell down your right side, keeping your shoulders facing forward. Once you reach the end of your range of motion, lift the dumbbell back up as you straighten your torso to the starting position." Do 15 reps per side for four sets.
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The post The Easiest 10-Minute Standing Ab Workout To Do With Dumbbells appeared first on Eat This Not That.
Staying in excellent shape doesn't necessarily mean signing up for a pricey fitness membership or constantly hitting your workouts hard. As a matter of fact, you don't even need to waste time going to and from the gym. All you really require is a workout mat and your body weight for a trainer's top-recommended daily floor exercises for men to stay fit. Don't overthink things—your fitness session can be that simple!
Putting your body weight to the test through floor exercises is a time-efficient, seamless form of training. Plus, all you need to do is roll out your mat in your living room or backyard and get started. (Of course, some floor exercises can be done with free weights to increase the challenge, but today, we're chatting about bodyweight floor exercises.) Bodyweight workouts come with a plethora of benefits, including increasing muscle endurance, aerobic capacity, and flexibility, Harvard Health Publishing points out. In addition, you can tweak the movements according to your fitness level, get a healthy dose of "functional" exercise, and boost your overall strength and power. All of this becomes increasingly important as you age, since your muscle strength, mass, and function decline.
"Floor and bodyweight exercises are great options to minimize the need to go to a gym while still getting the benefits of resistance training," Read tells Eat This, Not That! "Early on, you can build muscle with floor work. Eventually, your body will adapt and begin increasing its muscular endurance. However, you can readily maintain a lean, toned physique by keeping up with your floor routine. If you want to build really big muscles, you will need to add additional resistance. However, the general fit, lean appearance can be simply achieved by regular bodyweight training."
Doing your absolute best to perform physical activity on a daily basis is the name of the game if you want to preserve your toned, strong physique and build upon it. So consider adding the below daily floor exercises for men to stay fit to your routine ASAP. And when you're finished, be sure to check out 7 Exercises Men Should Do Every Day To Stay Muscular.
"A staple of many workout routines, pushups work your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core," Read explains.
To set up, begin in a high plank on your hands and the balls of your feet. Your wrists should be below your shoulders, and your body should form a straight line. Gradually descend, bringing your chest toward the ground, and keep your core activated. Once you reach the bottom of the motion, press yourself back up to return to a high plank.
Read tells us the plank is a "powerful core-strengthening exercise" that also activates your glutes and shoulders.
The plank requires you to first assume all fours before lowering down to your forearms and pressing up to the balls of your feet so your body forms a straight line. Activate your core as you hold this position.
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This full-body exercise brings together a squat, pushup, and a jump. It's a stellar move to give your cardiovascular fitness a boost.
To begin, stand with your feet planted shoulder-width apart. Activate your core as you lower into a high plank with your hands shoulder-width apart and both feet behind you. Maintain a straight back, PureGym instructs. Bend both elbows as you descend into a pushup. Then, push your body back up and jump both feet back. Next, explosively jump up with your arms overhead. That completes one rep.
"Mountain climbers primarily target the core but also work the shoulders and legs," Read explains. "It's a good cardio workout as well."
You'll begin in a high plank position with your hands planted shoulder-width apart so that your wrists are aligned with your shoulders. You should be on the balls of your feet. In a speedy fashion, bring your left knee up to your chest, without making contact with the floor, before bringing it back behind you. Quickly repeat with your right knee, and continue to alternate.
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"Leg raises target your lower abdominal muscles, which can be hard to reach with other exercises," Read points out.
To begin leg raises, lie flat on your back on a workout mat with your arms at your sides and your legs completely extended. Make sure your lower back stays in contact with the ground throughout this exercise. Next, keep your legs together and straight as you gradually raise them up. Then, gradually bring them back down so they're just above the floor, not touching it. Continue to lift and lower.
"Russian twists target the obliques and overall core," Read tells us. "To add difficulty, hold a weight like a dumbbell or medicine ball."
Get ready to fire up your abs with the Russian twist. Begin by sitting on a workout mat so that your upper body forms a 45-degree angle with the ground. Your arms should be in front of your chest with your hands clasped together, both knees should be bent, and your feet should be lifted off the floor. Twist your upper body from side to side without flailing, all while maintaining a tight core.
Last but not least on this list of the best daily floor exercises for men is the glute bridge. "Glute bridges target the glutes and hamstrings, but they also work the core and can help improve hip mobility," Read explains.
To begin, lie down flat on your back on the workout mat with your arms at your sides and your knees bent. Plant your feet hip-width distance apart. Next, activate your core and your glutes as you press your hips up toward the sky. Make sure your back doesn't arch. Once you reach the top of the "bridge," hold the position for a moment and squeeze the glutes before lowering back down.
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The post 7 Floor Exercises Men Should Do Every Day To Stay Fit appeared first on Eat This Not That.
When it's finally time to fire up the ol' grill this summer, hamburgers and hot dogs are the obvious move, but what about other foods?
Chicken, seafood, and veggies are all enticing options for outdoor grilling—and they're usually even better when you marinate them for a good while first. A high-quality marinade adds flavor and makes your grilled proteins more succulent.
If you're lucky, you already have a trusty homemade marinade recipe all ready to go. If not, your local supermarket has a whole aisle of bottled-up possibilities, from traditional American-style barbecue sauces to more worldly, mouth-watering solutions you might not even know about.
I recently rounded up seven intriguing options from local supermarkets and gathered together some of my favorite people to taste-test these flavorful food baths. Since poultry is among of the most conducive meats to marinate, I focused this taste test exclusively on chicken—specifically, chicken wings, which are both small enough to allow for ample sampling and just plain fun to grill in general. I marinated each batch of wings overnight before grilling and sampling.
Here's how the various marinades turned out, ranked in descending order from my least favorite to the tastiest of them all.
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Costa Rica's Ricante is best known for its hot sauces, so I was expecting big flavors from this tropical-themed bottle, priced at $7.99 from Whole Foods. I should have known better. Most Caribbean-style jerk sauces come in a very dark, almost black color. This one looks… brownish-orange? According to the label, it's flavored with tamarind, raisins, mustard, chipotle, and lime, among other things. "This sauce will blow your mind when it comes to marinades and reductions," the company claims on its website. Well, not exactly. On the wings, I found it pretty underwhelming, to be honest, with subtle notes of citrus and very mild spice. One taster totally dismissed it as "flavorless." It's hands-down the blandest sauced-wing I tried, which is why it came in dead-last on this list.
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Bachan's is a popular California brand sold at Costco, Whole Foods, and other esteemed retailers. I reached for the gluten-free version of its original Japanese Style Barbecue Sauce because, well, virtually all the other marinades made the same pledge. Plus, one my tasters can't tolerate the other stuff. The only difference in the recipe is the type of soy sauce (the original one contains wheat). Made with non-GMO tamari soy sauce and organic flavorings including garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil, Bachan's GF OG is sticky and savory, but also quite sweet and salty—packing the most sugar and most sodium of any sauce on this list, in fact.
Yet, even with all that added oomph, this self-described "teriyaki-ish" sauce failed to impress my tasters. One called it "so light, it's almost refreshing." Another complained of an unpleasant aftertaste. It's also the highest-priced sauce I tried: $9.39 for a 17-ounce squeeze bottle at Whole Foods. Pricey, lacking punch, and a little off-putting in one case, it ranks toward the bottom, too.
Trader Joe's labels this marinade as "a unique teriyaki sauce." One thing that immediately sets it apart is the massive amount of sesame seeds floating at the top of the jar, which you don't see in the other teriyaki-style sauces I tried. Some of these seeds will cling to the meat both during and after cooking, lending a visual and textural appeal the other marinated wings lacked. More reasonably priced at $3.99, Joe's costs less than half as much as Bachan's soy-based sauce. (Warning to the gluten-averse: this one does contain wheat.) It's also lighter in sugar and sodium, yet much heavier on garlic. The listed ingredients include both garlic purée and dried garlic.
Even so, the Soyaki-soaked wings also sort of sucked. One taster dismissed them as "blah—totally unremarkable." A possible explanation: the liquid looks a lot more watered-down than other, more viscous marinades, so maybe the sauce just didn't stick to the meat. Whatever the reason, TJ's Soyaki ranks on the lower rung, as well.
Ohio's Cleveland Kitchen attracted a lot of attention at this year's Expo West with its intriguing brand of kimchi pickles. The fermentation-minded company also makes gut-healthy salad dressings and marinades, including this Miso Jalapeño variety, which you can find in the refrigerated section at upscale grocers including Wegmans and Whole Foods for about $6.
Flavor-wise, the pungent yellowish sauce skews more jalapeño than miso, delivering a "satisfying kick that leaves a bit of tingle on the lips and the back of the throat," one taster observed. It might be the most unique marinade in this group, but perhaps too unique for traditional wing-lovers. The same taster suggested it might work better as a salad dressing than a marinade. That's why I'm sticking it right here in the middle, stuck between the losers and winners.
Idaho's Sky Valley makes all kinds of sauces, notably including a Sriracha-style chili sauce. Comparatively, the brand's classic teriyaki might seem a little unassuming. Yet, it's deceptively good, with a rich and strikingly sweet flavor that begs for a second helping. "I would happily eat more than one wing," one taster said. At just $3.67 from Whole Foods, it's the most affordable of the teriyaki-style sauces I tried—and the most flavorful, too. Somehow it just tastes sweeter than the others, despite having an equal or even lower amount of sugar. It's also oddly lower in salt. These surprisingly positive results with fewer added ingredients catapult Sky Valley into my Top 3.
Unlike the other so-called "jerk" sauce I tried, the Grace brand is legit. Made in Jamaica with a blend of homegrown hot country peppers, Scotch Bonnets, and pimento, according to the company's website, it really packs a wallop, with a bright fruity taste and electrifying heat. Funny enough, this is the "mild" version, yet it is far and away the spiciest marinade among these varied selections. In fact, the fiery flavor might be a little too overpowering for non-pepperheads, which is probably the only reason this intensely flavored product doesn't rise to the top spot.
Texas-based Melinda's Foods promotes this sauce as both a condiment and marinade, which makes sense because you are going to want to put it on everything. Produced in Columbia, the peri-peri-style sauce tastes bright, fruity, and spicy, but not as burning hot as the Jamaican jerk. Mashed tabasco and cayenne peppers give this sauce its sharp piquant quality, according to the label.
Interestingly, though, the first listed ingredient is lemon juice, and the recipe also includes lemon powder. All that acidic citrus seems to have penetrated deep into every muscle fiber in the chicken, which is precisely what you want from a marinade. The wings tasted juicier and more flavorful than any of the others, and that's why Melinda's comes in first place. It's the most well balanced and delicious one of the bunch.
Bonus: it pairs really well with blue cheese, too, just like a good spicy-sauced wing should.
The post I Tried 7 Store-Bought Marinades & This Is the Best One appeared first on Eat This Not That.
When it is time for some true comfort food, many turn to a plate of fried chicken to satisfy their cravings. A good plate of fried chicken will combine a crispy outer shell with a juicy interior, often accompanied by bold flavor and, occasionally, a nice kick of heat. The best part is that many fast-food and fast-casual restaurants across the country serve great fried chicken at low prices, making it a truly accessible meal. It may not be the epitome of a healthy meal, but few foods can come remotely close to fried chicken's crowd-pleasing taste and texture.
Each of these fast-food chains serves tasty bone-in fried chicken, and they all offer something unique to their customers. Whether the chicken is marinated for several hours before cooking or finished in a signature spice, you will find a different reason to visit each of the following restaurants at least once if you are a fan of all things fried chicken. Often associated with Southern cooking, you'll find that some of the best fast-food fried chicken can be found at restaurants with international influences—but of course, the more familiar fried chicken is also a standout, for good reason.
Here are eight spots for the best fried chicken in a flash.
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Most fried chicken connoisseurs are familiar with the hallmark fast-food brand KFC. But have you ever stopped and wondered just how KFC's iconic fried chicken is made? According to its website, KFC uses a secret blend of 11 herbs and spices that it rocks and rolls its chicken in before pressure cooking at a low temperature to lock in the flavor. Whether you want drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings, KFC has a combo meal for you, with your choice of Original, Extra Crispy, or Hot and Spicy breading.
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You may have never heard of Jollibee if you do not live on the West Coast, but if you love fried chicken, you should make it a point to get acquainted with this Filipino fast-food chain. Its signature menu item is what it calls Chickenjoy, which is made with a secret marinade responsible for its juicy flavor. Each piece of chicken is hand-breaded to be what Jollibee describes as "crispylicious." The fried chicken can be served regular or spicy, and it can come with unique side dishes you will not find at other fast-food restaurants, like Jolly Spaghetti or Palabok Fiesta.
If classic Southern cooking is what you are looking for, head to Bojangles. The fast-food chain is known for its signature never-frozen Cajun-season fried chicken, which is marinated for 12 hours prior to cooking, per Nashville Post. Customers can choose from all of the traditional cuts of chicken, including legs, thighs, breasts, and wings. There is no mistake that you are in for some excellent Southern cuisine, as made evident by the fact that Bojangles' fried chicken Family Meals come with a half-gallon of iced tea.
Church's Texas Chicken has been serving up tasty fried chicken since 1952, and from its earliest years, it distinguished itself from the competition with a peculiar side. Rather than come up with an elaborate spice to add heat, Church's gives power to the people. Jalapeño peppers are aplenty at Church's, with customers able to take their fried chicken to the next level with just one squeeze. Jennifer Chasteen, Church's former vice president of brand strategy and activation, once shared with QSR Magazine that "guests have been squeezing jalapeño juice over our chicken for spice and heat for 65 years."
The fast-food chain also prides itself on freshness. According to My San Antonio, the original design of Chuch's was so that customers could watch the chicken being freshly prepared while they waited for their order.
There is a reason so many customers "love that chicken from Popeyes." The fast-food chain marinates its chicken for 12 hours in "traditional savory Louisiana herbs and seasonings" before cooking, resulting in a memorable flavor and a satisfying crunch. That commitment to Louisiana-style fried chicken is evident when you visit Popeyes, with its spicy variation with a bold Cajun flavor ranking number one in a recent fried chicken taste test.
TKK Fried Chicken first opened in Taiwan in 1974, expanding internationally to New York City in 2018. Since then, the fast-food chain has grown quickly, with approximately two dozen locations in the United States as of 2023. TKK Fried Chicken is known for "mixing the bold flavors of the East with the juicy golden crispy techniques of the West," according to its website. Using just one layer of breading, its chicken is fried in pure soybean oil for its signature flavor and crispiness.
Hattie B's Hot Chicken is a small chain with just 10 locations nationwide. Originally from Nashville, Hattie B's stays true to its roots with authentic Nashville hot fried chicken. That heat can vary quite a bit depending on how much you can handle, with levels rangings from Southern, which sticks to bold flavor with no heat whatsoever, all the way to "Shut the Cluck Up."
Hattie B's Hot Chicken Executive Chef Biran Morris shared with Bham Now, "We think we do a really good job at what we do. We're constantly refining and working to perfect our practice. The nice thing about having a small menu and not rolling out specials or limited-time offers all the time is that we get to spend our time making what we do better."
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Pollo Campero first opened in Guatemala in 1971 and has expanded internationally to over 350 locations worldwide, nearly 80 of which are located in the United States, according to 1851 Franchise. Its Campero Fried Chicken is the menu's focal point, offering what Pollo Campero describes as "marinated to the bone, slow-down-and-enjoy-every-bite, food." There is no mistaking the Latin inspiration behind Pollo Campero's menu, making it a unique fried chicken among a sea of Southern-style options here in the U.S.
The post 8 Fast-Food Chains That Serve the Best Fried Chicken appeared first on Eat This Not That.