Other
calf round (leg).
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
SERVING
CALORIES
147
PROTEIN
21.1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
6.9g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories147kcal—
Protein21.1g42%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat6.9g9%
Saturated fat2.3g11%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol50.1mg17%
Water71.1g—
MINERALS
Sodium67mg3%
Potassium356mg8%
Calcium10mg1%
Iron2.4mg13%
Magnesium22.3mg5%
Phosphorus185mg15%
Zinc2.6mg24%
Copper0.08mg9%
Manganese0.01mg0%
Selenium13.3µg24%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A2.4µg0%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.97µg5%
Vitamin E0.20mg1%
Vitamin K6.2µg5%
Thiamin (B1)0.03mg3%
Riboflavin (B2)0.17mg13%
Niacin (B3)6.0mg37%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.87mg17%
Vitamin B60.41mg24%
Biotin (B7)7.8µg26%
Folate (B9)0µg0%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup150g
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 piece110g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of high-quality complete protein, essential for muscle building, maintenance, and repair.
- ✓Rich in heme iron, a highly bioavailable form that helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia and supports oxygen transport in the blood.
- ✓Provides significant amounts of Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
- ✓Good source of zinc, which supports immune function, wound healing, and cell growth.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Ideal for slow, moist-heat cooking methods like braising or stewing, which break down connective tissue and result in tender, flavorful meat.
- 2Can be cut into thin slices for scaloppine or schnitzel; pound the slices to an even thickness and cook quickly over high heat to avoid toughness.
- 3When roasting, use a lower temperature (around 325°F or 160°C) and avoid overcooking to keep the lean meat from drying out.
- 4Marinating the meat for several hours before cooking can help to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate raw calf round at or below 40°F (4°C) in its original packaging or a sealed container and cook within 3 to 5 days.
- For long-term storage, wrap tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap and foil or a vacuum-sealed bag and freeze at 0°F (-18°C) for up to 12 months.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is calf round healthy?
Yes, calf round is a nutrient-dense lean meat that is an excellent source of high-quality complete protein. It is rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin B12 for nerve function and zinc for immune support, while being lower in fat than many adult beef cuts.
How much protein is in calf round?
A 100g serving of calf round contains approximately 21.1g of protein. This high protein content makes it ideal for muscle building, maintenance, and tissue repair.
Is calf round good for weight loss?
Calf round can be a great addition to a weight loss diet because it is relatively low in calories (about 147 kcal per 100g) and high in protein. The high protein content helps promote satiety, which can reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day.
Is calf round keto-friendly?
Yes, calf round is highly keto-friendly as it contains 0g of carbohydrates. It provides a clean source of protein and moderate fats, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic lifestyles.
Is calf round gluten-free?
In its natural, raw state, calf round is 100% gluten-free. However, always check labels if the meat is pre-marinated or breaded, as those preparations often introduce wheat-based ingredients.
How do you cook calf round to keep it tender?
Because the round is a lean cut, it is best cooked using moist-heat methods like braising or slow-roasting to prevent it from becoming tough. Alternatively, it can be sliced very thin and quickly pan-seared for dishes like veal scallopini.
What does calf round taste like?
Calf round has a much milder and more delicate flavor compared to mature beef. The texture is finer and more tender, with a subtle sweetness that pairs well with light sauces, lemon, and herbs.
How long does calf round last in the refrigerator?
Raw calf round should be stored in the coldest part of your refrigerator and typically stays fresh for 3 to 5 days. If you do not plan to cook it within that timeframe, it should be frozen to maintain quality.
How do you know if calf round has gone bad?
Fresh calf round should be pale pink with a clean, neutral scent. If the meat develops a greyish tint, a slimy or tacky texture, or a sour, off-putting odor, it has likely spoiled and should be discarded.
Can I substitute calf round with beef round?
Yes, you can substitute beef round, but keep in mind that beef has a stronger flavor and a coarser texture. You may need to adjust cooking times as beef round can be tougher and may require longer tenderizing or braising.
