Beef Makes Holiday Entertaining Easy & Economical
Ground beef fits on all counts. It is Canada's favourite meat, but surprisingly one that is often neglected for holiday entertaining.
"Consumer research shows that the number of ground beef meals is stable year round, being enjoyed on average about once a week," says Cynthia Cousins, a home economist with the Beef Information Centre. "But when guests are present, the use of ground beef drops off, especially in the winter months."
Not surprisingly, the research also confirmed the Centre's hypothesis that entertaining with ground beef is higher in the summer, as Canadian barbecues sizzle with burgers. "So that got us thinking beyond burgers, to developing economical party recipes everyone could enjoy year round," adds Cousins.
The result is Casual Gatherings: simply fabulous beef feasts, a new recipe booklet full of easy, affordable dishes with lots of do-ahead options. Many of the recipes use economical beef cuts, such as stewing beef cubes, blade roasts, and naturally, ground beef. There are ideas for all occasions from the pot luck dinner to the weeknight soiree.
"I really like the do-ahead, multi-use concept of the Asian Beef Mixture," says Cousins. "Using a base mixture which can be prepared in advance, the booklet gives four options for 'no-knives-required' items for those parties where guests are standing and mingling."
Baked Spring Rolls, Asian Pot stickers, Asian Tortilla Bites and Beef and Bean Stirfry, start with an economical and easy-to-prepare base, and are guaranteed to put a party-smile on your face during the budget-stretching season.
