Unseen Costco Beef Tenderloin Tips: Where Do They Go?

Have you ever wondered where the tenderloin tips at Costco end up if you can't find them on your local wholesale shelves? This article delves into the fascinating journey of these meat trimmings and how Costco deals with them. We'll explore their potential uses and provide tips on how to inquire about these cuts directly from your local Costco.

The Delight of a Beef Tenderloin Meal

If there's one cut of meat that shines during special occasions, it's the beef tenderloin. This extraordinary piece of meat is ideal for feeding numerous people without requiring a lot of fuss. With a bit of preparation, a good skillet, and a probe thermometer, you can ensure a delicious and tender meal that will have diners closing their eyes, humming, and smiling every bite.

What Happens to the Trim?

Despite the beef tenderloin being a staple in many households, you may notice that tenderloin tips don't always make their way to the shelves of your local Costco. But what exactly does Costco do with these trimmings? It turns out that there's much more to these cuts than meets the untrained eye.

Utilizing Trim Cuts Effectively

Costco, like many meat processors, ensures that no part of the animal goes to waste. The tenderloin tips, while not always appearing as whole cuts, can be turned into something equally delicious. Often, these trimmings are reincarnated as components of cubed steak packs or other processed cuts that are then sold to other retailers or even wholesale.

Requesting Specific Cuts

While tenderloin tips might not be on display at every Costco location, there's hope. Here’s a tip to increase your chances of noticing them: visit during a less crowded time and ask if they have any tenderloin tips available for sale. Many Costco employees are accommodating and willing to help when specific requests are made. As one satisfied customer mentioned, it's worth the effort to ask, as they have often been able to source unique cuts upon request.

Alternative Uses for Trim Cuts

Tenderloin tips can also find their way into a variety of other dishes beyond cubed steak packs. They can be ground up and used for meatballs, burgers, or even combined with other cuts to enhance the dish's flavor. Some culinary experts suggest making these trimmings into a sauce or rub, particularly if you're a fan of using dripping from roast beef as a base.

Conclusion

The next time you head to your local Costco, keep an eye out for these tenderloin tips. If you can't find them on the shelves, don't hesitate to directly ask an employee. The alternative use of these meat trimmings is versatile and flavorful, ensuring that no part of the beast goes to waste. Whether you choose to incorporates them into a meal or grind them into something else, these cuts offer a unique and valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.