You've heard of book of the month clubs - steak of the month is even better! Here's how it works: you register for a program with one of several mail order meat companies, and every month you receive a different variety of quality steaks! They are all shipped safely, usually overnight, in Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) approved packaging.

The meat arrives fresh and ready for you to enjoy. Some companies add 'extras' to their steak of the month packages, like seasonings, sauces or recipes. The aim is fun, convenience, good eating and an opportunity to expand your repertoire of favorite recipes.

You can order steak of the month deliveries for yourself, but many people have found that they are a fun and innovative gift for friends or family. Christmas, being right before the start of a new year, is a great time to order a steak of the month package for someone on your list.

Like a magazine subscription, it's a gift that 'keeps on giving' throughout the year, but with a truly original twist. Think of it this way - you are treating your gift recipients to a fabulous dinner once a month for an entire year.

That having been said, not all steak of the month programs take the name literally - you can opt for more or fewer deliveries, as well. To make the gift less expensive, you can order a six-month supply of steak, to be delivered every second month.

Another option is four quarterly deliveries. In any case, the concept is the same, and the gesture will be appreciated by friends and family who enjoy good food and appreciate an original gift that doesn't add to household clutter.

Some recipients of a steak of the month gift find that they look forward to this meal all month long. Steak is, after all, a treat - something that most of us don't eat on a daily basis, to many of us it is the essence to good eating. A steak of the month program is a great way to add this element of celebration and enjoyment to your regular routine.

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