Get adventurous to save money

“This tastes just like the turkey tenderloin at the State Fair!” I exclaimed in surprise.

It was another busy Sunday this fall, and I was about to leave the house to drive my daughter to yet another activity. My husband stopped me at the door and handed me a pork slider so I didn’t skip lunch again.

I couldn’t get over how the sandwich had the same smoky flavor and seasoning as the famous grilled turkey tenderloins I love so much at the Iowa State Fair.

Lately, my husband has been grilling and smoking meat on the weekends, while watching football. He slow-cooks any cut of meat he can find on sale – pork loin, beef chuck roasts, chicken hindquarters. Then he makes stir-fry, tacos, sandwiches or salads with the cooked protein during the week.

Food prices are high right now, but you can still find good deals on nutritious, quality meats, especially if you’re willing to get adventurous and try different cuts and cooking methods.

In this issue of the Iowa Dish, we share advice from the director of world-renowned Iowa State University Meat Lab on how to get the most value for your money when buying meat.

October is also National Pork Month. Discover why pork is safer than ever thanks to modern farming practices and the hard work of Iowa farmers. And be sure to take advantage of Pork Month deals at the grocery store. Pork is a versatile and nutritious protein that can make your weeknight meals easier.

Also, we share a recent study that shows the huge impact that Iowa’s livestock farms have on our local economy. Many of us have jobs that are directly or indirectly linked with Iowa farmers – whether you work in health care, education, skilled trades, banking and insurance, retail, or hospitality and dining.

I hope you all get a chance to enjoy the Midwest sights and flavors of fall. As a gentle reminder, look out for farm equipment when driving this harvest season.

You can see the farmer on the road, but they likely can’t see you. Dust and dirt from the field can cover up mirrors, hazard lights and back-up cameras on farm equipment. Slow down, avoid distractions and pass only when it’s safe.

Take care,

Teresa Bjork
Editor, The Iowa Dish

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Learn more about author Teresa Bjork here.