A Detailed Look at Steak-umm® Calories
While a single raw portion of Steak-umm® beef is a straightforward 130 calories, it's crucial to understand how this changes once cooked and integrated into a full meal. The cooking process itself can cause a slight reduction in calories, mainly due to fat rendering. Furthermore, the true caloric impact comes from the accompanying ingredients used in a classic cheesesteak.
The Caloric Breakdown: Raw vs. Cooked
The most significant factor in the calorie count is the state of the meat. A raw portion contains more fat and, therefore, more calories than a cooked one. During cooking, some of the fat renders out and is left behind in the pan, resulting in a slightly lower caloric value for the finished steak portion.
For example, while a raw 42.5g portion of the 100% Beef Sliced Steaks is listed as 130 calories, a cooked portion (approximately 32g) may be closer to 100 calories. This discrepancy is small but important for those tracking their intake closely. The type of meat also plays a key role.
Exploring Different Steak-umm® Varieties
Steak-umm® offers more than just their original beef product. They also have chicken varieties that provide a lighter alternative. This diversification means that the calorie count can vary significantly depending on which product you choose.
- 100% Beef Sliced Steaks: A raw 42.5g portion contains 130 calories, with 11g of total fat and 7g of protein.
- 100% Angus Beef Sliced Steaks: Similar to the standard beef, a raw 42.5g piece also contains 130 calories.
- Chicken Breast Sliced Steaks: A raw 42.5g portion is significantly lighter, containing only 50 calories, with just 1g of fat and 10g of protein.
For those seeking to reduce their calorie consumption, opting for the chicken breast variety is a clear choice. It provides a higher protein-to-fat ratio, making it a more calorie-efficient protein source.
How Add-Ins Impact Your Meal's Calories
The true caloric density of a meal featuring Steak-umm® comes from the bun, cheese, and other toppings. A basic cheesesteak can easily exceed 600 calories when you account for all the additions.
A typical cheesesteak sandwich could include:
- Meat: One cooked portion of Steak-umm® beef (approx. 100 calories)
- Bun: A standard white sub roll (approx. 200-250 calories)
- Cheese: Two slices of American cheese or provolone (approx. 150-200 calories)
- Oil: The amount used for cooking the meat (variable, but can add 50-100+ calories)
This simple formula can bring the total well over 500 calories. Adding extras like onions, mushrooms, or peppers will add minimal calories, but adding more cheese, extra meat, or a fatty sauce will further increase the count.
A Calorie Comparison: Steak-umm® Beef vs. Chicken
To put the differences into perspective, here is a comparison of the key nutritional metrics for the primary Steak-umm® varieties based on a single raw portion (42.5g).
| Nutrient | 100% Beef Sliced Steaks | Chicken Breast Sliced Steaks |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal | 50 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11g | 1g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 0g |
| Protein | 7g | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g | 0g |
| Sodium | 25mg | 20mg |
As the table clearly shows, the chicken breast option is significantly lower in calories and fat while providing a higher amount of protein. This makes it a compelling choice for those prioritizing lower-calorie meals or reduced fat intake.
Practical Tips for Managing Calories
If you love Steak-umm® but are mindful of your calorie intake, there are several simple strategies to make your meal healthier without sacrificing flavor:
- Reduce Portions: Use fewer slices of steak-umm to cut down on calories and fat.
- Choose the Right Base: Swap out a heavy sub roll for a lighter bun, a whole-wheat wrap, or even serve the meat on a salad.
- Go Easy on the Cheese: Use a single slice of cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety. Consider a stronger-flavored cheese to get more taste with less quantity.
- Add Vegetables: Load up on sauteed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. They add bulk, nutrients, and flavor with very few calories.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: Cook with a non-stick pan to minimize the amount of added oil, or use a cooking spray instead of a tablespoon of oil.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of calories in Steak-umm® varies depending on the product and preparation. A raw 42.5g portion of beef contains 130 calories, while the chicken alternative has only 50. The final calorie count of a finished dish like a cheesesteak can be significantly higher due to the bun, cheese, and cooking oil. By being mindful of these additions and utilizing smart cooking techniques, you can still enjoy Steak-umm® while managing your calorie intake effectively.
