where do you find dried beef in the grocery store

Where to Find Dried Beef in the Grocery Store

Dried beef, also known as chipped beef, is a unique and versatile ingredient that can add a tasty kick to many dishes. If you’re looking to cook with dried beef, you may be wondering exactly where to find it at your local grocery store With a bit of insider knowledge, locating dried beef is easy once you know which sections to check

In this detailed guide I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find dried beef, from what it looks like to where it’s stocked at major grocery chains. You’ll also learn handy tips for purchasing storing, and cooking with this smoky cured meat. Let’s get started!

What Is Dried Beef?

First, a quick primer on what dried beef is. Dried beef starts by salting and curing lean cuts of beef brisket or round. It is then slowly dried until most moisture evaporates, concentrating the meaty flavors. Sliced paper-thin, the texture becomes dense and chewy when raw but tender when cooked.

Other common names for dried beef include chipped beef, cured beef, and even beef jerky. The packaging will always clearly state “dried beef” or “chipped beef.” Popular brands like Armour, Hereford, and Hormel are widely available.

Where Is Dried Beef Located in Grocery Stores?

Now that you know what to look for, here are the two main sections to find dried beef:

Canned Meat Aisle
The most obvious location is the canned meat section or shelf-stable meat aisle. Look near other cured meats like deviled ham, corned beef hash, Vienna sausages, and potted meat. Dried beef often comes in jars or pouches rather than cans.

Deli Section
Many grocers also stock dried beef in the packaged deli meats section alongside pre-sliced hams, turkey, roast beef and more. The in-store deli may also slice it fresh to order.

In addition, check near the hot dogs, bacon, sausage and jerky for dried beef options. Due to varied store layouts, scan all shelves with cured and smoked meats if you can’t locate it right away. Asking the customer service desk is another tactic to find its exact location.

What Does Dried Beef Look Like?

When browsing for dried beef, look for thin slices of cured beef in bags or tubs. The color varies from deep red to brown depending on ingredients and curing method. It will look dense and stiff, unlike raw fresh ground beef.

Packaging is typically labeled clearly as “Dried Beef” or “Chipped Beef.” Popular brands to look for include Armour, Hereford, and Hormel. depending on your region. With an eye out for these visual cues, recognizing dried beef is easy.

Tips for Buying Dried Beef

Follow these tips for purchasing dried beef to help you pick the best product:

• Check the expiration or use by date and pick the furthest out.

• Look for pliable slices that haven’t dried out completely.

• Opt for low or reduced sodium versions if available.

• Select thicker, meatier looking slices for the best texture.

• Compare cost per ounce to find the best deals.

• Inspect packaging for any damage, leaks, or signs of spoilage.

Storing and Preserving Dried Beef

To extend shelf life, use these storage methods:

• Store unopened dried beef in a cool, dry pantry away from light.

• Once opened, transfer to a sealed airtight container or zip-top bag.

• Refrigerate opened dried beef for up to 1 month.

• Freeze for up to 6 months by removing air from freezer bags.

• Look for mold and off odors and discard dried beef if detected.

Delicious Ways to Use Dried Beef

Dried beef adds concentrated savory flavor to many dishes:

• Sauté into scrambles, frittatas, quiche

• Mix into mashed potatoes or potato salad

• Add to biscuits, breads, pizza dough

• Use in stir fries, fried rice, pasta dishes

• Fold into omelets, breakfast tacos, hashes

• Make old fashioned creamed chipped beef

• Create unique dips, spreads, pâtés

With an insider’s guide to locating dried beef at the grocery store, you can grab this unique ingredient to make tasty recipes. Explore using dried beef in creative new dishes to serve your family and friends. The smoky, salty, umami flavors will level up eggs benedict, shepherd’s pie, gravy, and more. Happy cooking with dried beef!