Wagyu beef comes from four main Japanese cow breeds that are carefully selected and genetically tested. They include Japanese Polled, Japanese Black, Japanese Brown, and Japanese Shorthorn. It is said that these breeds make the best steak, with qualities like being incredibly tender and having a better flavor.
Wagyu beef prices average at $200 per pound. However, that price tag is there for good reason. Here are five of the top reasons Wagyu beef is worth every penny.
As a food blogger and beef lover, I get asked all the time if wagyu beef is really worth the high price tag. Wagyu beef has gained a cult-like following for its insane marbling, tender texture, and next-level flavor. But with wagyu commanding upwards of $200 a pound for prime cuts, is it worth emptying your wallet just to try it?
I’ve had the chance to try wagyu beef several times now from different purveyors and grades. After much introspection, I believe wagyu is absolutely worth trying at least once if you consider yourself a foodie or beef connoisseur. The entire experience – from the melt-in-your-mouth texture to the rich, buttery flavor – makes wagyu a true luxury item that every beef lover should splurge on occasionally.
Here are some of the reasons why I think wagyu beef is worth the indulgence:
The Flavor is Incomparable
The high marbling content in wagyu beef produces a remarkably rich and complex flavor unlike any other steak you’ve tried. The fat renders down during cooking, basting the meat in its own juices. Every bite delivers an intense depth of flavor – some even detect notes of butter or cheese. It’s an umami bomb!
The Texture is Out of This World
A perfectly cooked wagyu steak essentially melts on your tongue The high fat content makes the meat incredibly succulent and tender Even chewier cuts like shoulder or brisket transform into a velvety smooth texture.
It’s a True Luxury Experience
From the exorbitant price to the artisanal raising practices, wagyu beef delivers a genuine luxury dining experience Much care and expertise goes into producing authentic Japanese wagyu beef. You’re not just eating a steak, you’re savoring the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship
Health Benefits of Wagyu Fat
Surprisingly, wagyu beef provides some health advantages over conventional beef. The fat contains anti-inflammatory omega-3s and CLA, a fatty acid linked to cancer prevention. And the saturated fat in wagyu is more unsaturated than typical beef. Of course, enjoy in moderation!
Supports Small Farmers
Many small wagyu beef producers in the US and Australia rely on direct-to-consumer models to sell their hyper-premium beef, Purchasing wagyu supports these small family farmers dedicated to the art of raising wagyu
Makes for a Special Occasion Meal
There’s no better centerpiece for a romantic dinner, special birthday, or big celebration than a beautifully marbled wagyu steak. It transforms an ordinary night into a true occasion and memory that will last.
It’s an Experience Every Foodie Should Have
For hardcore food nerds passionate about flavor profiles, textures, and discovering new ingredients, trying real wagyu beef should be on your food bucket list. You owe it to your tastebuds to treat them to one of the most decadent culinary experiences out there.
How to Make Wagyu Worth the Splurge
If you do decide to take the wagyu plunge, here are some tips to make sure you fully enjoy the experience:
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Source it from a reputable seller and pay attention to the grading. Go for A5 Japanese wagyu or Prime/Platinum American wagyu.
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Pick a special occasion and make it into an event. Open a nice bottle of Cabernet.
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Keep the preparation simple – salt, pepper and high heat is all you need.
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Cook it yourself instead of ordering at a restaurant to control the prep. Go for medium rare.
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Portion into small slices and take your time savoring each bite. Make it last!
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Pair it with simple sides that won’t compete like roasted asparagus or potatoes.
Is Wagyu Worth It for Everyday Eating?
At $200+ per pound, wagyu is far too expensive to enjoy on a regular basis for most people. There are plenty of more affordable beef options that still offer great flavor and quality. Wagyu should be thought of as a rare treat or special occasion splurge meal. While delicious, it’s just not feasible or even necessary to eat A5 wagyu on the daily.
The Verdict: Definitely Worth Trying Once!
After getting to experience wagyu beef several times now, my verdict is that it is absolutely worth trying at least once if you’re a foodie, beef lover, or anyone who appreciates culinary indulgences. The unmatched flavor and texture make wagyu a truly luxurious, bucket-list dining experience unlike any other. While regular wagyu consumption may not be realistic, I believe everyone should get to enjoy this uniquely decadent and delicious beef at least once in their lives. It’s an experience your tastebuds will never forget!
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Highly Controlled Market and Breeding
Japan banned exportation of Wagyu cattle breeds in 1997. By then, only about 200 animals had been exported to the US. As a result, the supply of Wagyu beef outside of Japan is negligible in comparison to the demand. What’s more, Japan uses strict testing methods to ensure breeding uses only the best genetic material. The highly controlled breeding and limited supply justify the price.
Grading also plays a role in pricing. The Japan Meat Grading Association (JMGA) is very strict about how they grade Wagyu beef. They look at color, brightness, fat marbling, quality, texture, and firmness. The beef that finds its way into high-end restaurants is the highest grade, which is worth every penny. Try Wagyu sausage rather than links from the grocery store, and you’ll be able to taste the difference.
Japanese A5 Grade Wagyu Steak Taste Test | Is it worth it ?
FAQ
Is Wagyu beef really that much better?
What is special about Wagyu beef?
What are the cons of Wagyu beef?
Does Wagyu actually taste good?
What is Wagyu beef?
The word wagyu has a pretty literal translation: “wa” means Japanese, and “gyu” is cow. But that doesn’t mean that any Japanese cow qualifies. Wagyu beef breeds are carefully selected, and genetic testing is used to ensure only the best are allowed into the program.
Is wagyu steak expensive?
If you’ve ever seen Wagyu steak — or more likely Wagyu sliders — on the menu at an upscale steakhouse, chances are it was one of the most (if not the most) expensive food items at the restaurant. As much as Wagyu beef has a reputation of being the best steak you’ll ever eat, it’s also known for costing an arm and a leg.
Why should you buy Wagyu?
Wagyu has a vital role to play in today’s beef industry, increasing the quality of red meat produced that health conscious consumers demand. Whether you’re interested in something for yourself or a gift for your customers, we have something for you. Wagyu, the finest beef there is.
What is the most expensive Wagyu beef?
However, in recent months, chefs on Instagram and the popular video-sharing app TikTok have been showing lots of love to wagyu beef, specifically the most expensive variety, Japanese A5 Wagyu. What is wagyu beef? Wagyu literally translates in English to “Japanese cow” and is regarded as some of the highest quality beef in the world.