What is it? Wagyu beef burgers from the Aldi Specially Selected range (€3.99/340g).
What’s good about it? They are made from Wagyu beef born and raised in Northern Ireland and processed and packed in Tipperary by ABP Food Group. They come already seasoned with salt and black and white pepper; but not realising that, I salted them just before frying and they were fine. Wagyu beef is prized for its flavour, coming from a high fat content, but the burgers did not release too much fat to the pan, and they browned nice and evenly. The cooked burgers tasted extra meaty, with a strong umami hit.
How do I use it? They come as a chunky burger, two in each pack, but I flattened them out between parchment paper before frying, for a more smash-burger approach.
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Where can I buy it? They are on sale in 160 Aldi stores nationwide, but it is a special release and only expected to be in store for a couple of weeks more. Stock up (they can be frozen).
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Anything else? There is also a 300g pack of Wagyu meatballs in the range, with meat from the same source. These would be lovely in a tomato sauce with spaghetti, but would also make cute little mini sliders if flattened out a little.
Send your Shelf Help product suggestions to marieclaire.digby@irishtimes.com
