How to Cook Buffalo Blade: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Meal

Buffalo blade, also known as shoulder blade, is a versatile cut from the bison or buffalo that packs flavor and tenderness when cooked right. Buffalo meat, being leaner than beef, offers a unique taste and healthier choice, as it’s lower in fat and calories but rich in protein and nutrients. If you’re looking to impress with a delicious meal, learning how to cook buffalo blade can add a new dimension to your culinary skills. In this guide, we’ll cover the best methods and tips to cook buffalo blade to perfection.

Why Choose cook Buffalo Blade?

Buffalo meat is increasingly popular among health-conscious meat lovers. Compared to beef, it’s leaner, with fewer calories and a rich, slightly sweet flavor profile. Buffalo blade, in particular, is a great choice for slow-cooking recipes, grilling, or roasting, as it turns tender and flavorful over a longer cooking process.

Preparing Buffalo Blade for Cooking

When cooking buffalo blade, preparation is key to achieving the right flavor and texture.

1. Thaw Properly: If your buffalo blade is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking. Rapid thawing in a microwave or warm water can toughen the meat.
2. Season Generously: Buffalo meat can handle bold seasonings, so consider marinades, rubs, or a simple salt-and-pepper mix.
3. Allow Resting Time: After seasoning, let the buffalo blade rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Methods for Buffalo Blade

1. Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is ideal for buffalo blade, as the long cooking time helps to tenderize the meat and bring out its rich flavors.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs buffalo blade
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Instructions:
  1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear the buffalo blade for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
  3. Place the seared meat into a slow cooker with the broth, onion, garlic, and herbs.
  4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meat is tender.
  5. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

The result? A melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful buffalo blade that’s perfect to serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

2. Grilling

Grilling buffalo blade gives it a smoky flavor while keeping it juicy. Remember that since buffalo is lean, it cooks faster than beef, so watch it closely.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs buffalo blade
  • Olive oil
  • Salt, pepper, and favorite dry rub
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high.
  2. Brush the buffalo blade with olive oil and season generously.
  3. Place the blade on the grill, searing for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  4. Once both sides are seared, move the meat to indirect heat and cook for another 10-15 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare.
  5. Let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

3. Braising

Braising buffalo blade with aromatic ingredients creates a rich and savory dish.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs buffalo blade
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf)
  • Salt and pepper
• Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F.
  2. In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil and sear the buffalo blade on all sides.
  3. Remove the blade, and in the same pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and garlic.
  4. Add the wine and broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. Place the blade back in, add herbs, and cover with a lid.
  6. Bake in the oven for 2-3 hours until tender.

Final Tips for Cooking Buffalo Blade

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Buffalo meat can dry out if overcooked, so aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F for medium-rare.
• Let It Rest: Resting your buffalo blade after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful cut.
• Experiment with Sauces: Buffalo blade pairs well with rich sauces like red wine reduction, mushroom sauce, or even a simple garlic butter sauce.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook buffalo blade can open up new and exciting flavors in your kitchen. Whether you slow-cook, grill, or braise, this lean cut of meat is sure to impress with its rich taste and nutritional benefits. Try these cooking methods, experiment with seasonings, and enjoy a healthy, delicious meal with buffalo blade.