Beef Part of a Heart Healthy Diet-Just ask Chef Richard Chamberlain

It may seem like an oxymoron-having a great steakhouse chef touting the benefits of red meat for a heart healthy diet. But Chef Richard Chamberlain of noted Dallas restaurant Chamberlain's Steak and Chop House and Chamberlain's Fish Market Grill Restaurant, has been speaking this language for years.

In partnership with the National Cattleman's Beef Association (www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com) and the American Dietetic Association (www.eatright.org), Chamberlain penned the book The Healthy Beef Cookbook. Focusing on the 29 leanest cuts of beef, the cookbook is full of easy, delicious and satisfying beef recipes-all with portion sizes that are good for the heart, the waistline and the wallet. The trick-especially here in Texas-is to go for the 3 ounce portion of meat-NOT the 18 ouncer that is so often found in restaurants.

Recently, I attended the Go Red for Women Luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Chef Chamberlain did a 30 minute demo for guests in a standing room only scenario. While making a quick marinade for his grilled ka-bobs, he talked about the importance of caramelization, what are proper food temperatures for beef and how grilled limes and added cumin to salsa are some of his secrets to great tasting food.

By the way, Chamberlain's is one of the ONLY steak houses in Dallas that offers a 5 oz. fillet on the menu. No need to ask for it-just order it. Taking care of customers-and their health! www.chamberlainsrestaurant.com