Supermarket Aldi is launching 100% British Wagyu Beef Burgers in stores nationwide. Don’t miss them, as when they are gone, they are gone.
But what actually is Wagyu beef? This originated in Japan with several breeds of cattle being able to produce this style of meat. Wagyu is known for is characteristic fine marbling which gives such remarkable flavour and melting texture. Japanese farmers feed their cattle beer and give them massages! They live in an environment with noise control to keep the animals calm.
In 2008, the first herd of Wagyu cattle arrived in Yorkshire, with the first meat becoming available in 2011. The Wagyu Breeders Association Ltd was established in 2014, such is the growing popularity of this meat. I don’t know if they play soothing music to the British cows, though.
Arriving in Aldi on the 30th January, Aldi’s British Wagyu Burgers will go on sale for just £2.99 for a pack of 2 substantial patties, a fraction of the price you would typically pay for such quality beef, which can be as much as £12.95! Anybody visiting a Japanese restaurant will likely have noticed Wagyu on the menu and been staggered at the cost.
Aldi’s Wagyu beef supplier and Chairman of the British Wagyu Society, Jim Bloom, commented: “I’m very excited about the launch of British Wagyu burgers into Aldi. The cows are reared on our farm in Yorkshire and thanks to its high marbling score, it is comparable to Kobe Wagyu.
High-calibre Wagyu beef
“British Wagyu is set to be the next big thing in the meat industry and it’s very exciting that customers will be able to try our high-calibre Wagyu beef at such an affordable price.”
Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, commented: “Here at Aldi, we champion British quality, which is why we’re delighted to be welcoming British Wagyu into our stores.
“We want customers to be able to enjoy the very best, high quality foods, at our everyday amazing prices and will be working closely with our supplier to ensure more British Wagyu lines hit stores throughout the year.”
Yes, I am not ashamed to admit that I enjoy a good burger. These days one can sometimes find a Wagyu burger at a restaurant – but at a price. Home cooking a Wagyu burger is the way to go. I would advise just grilling, and finishing in a hot oven – and don’t over-season. Savour the flavour of the meat before adding condiments. Keep it simple. These burgers are exceptional and more than worth the very modest cost.