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Undercooked meat is a major source of pathogens like salmonella and E. coli. These food-borne infections can be avoided by using a meat thermometer to prepare meat to the right temperature. Developing the habit of utilising a meat thermometer is one of the most beneficial things a new cook can do. Apart from testing the temperature of meats, a meat thermometer can also be used to check the temperature of egg dishes and casseroles. It also protects against the dangers of undercooking, and a meat thermometer can prevent overcooking of those pricey portions of meat.
A meat thermometer is a stainless-steel probe that is put into the thickest section of the piece of meat. The meat’s temperature is measured by the tip, and the heat is displayed as a measurement on a thermometer gauge or digital display. Meat thermometers are available in a range of sizes, forms, prices, and colours. Meat thermometers are available at most grocery stores, specialist cook shops, and online. To get the most out of your meat thermometer, you should know how to properly use it. Here’s a quick guide on how to use a meat thermometer like a pro.
How to use a meat thermometer?
1. Place the thermometer in a container filled with ice and water for 20 seconds before taking a reading. If the thermometer reads 32 degrees Fahrenheit (or 0 degrees Celsius), it has been properly calibrated and is ready for use. If the thermometer does not achieve the correct temperature, the calibration is incorrect, and you should recalibrate it according to the user’s instructions or purchase a new thermometer.
2. Taking the meal away from the heat source—your oven, stove, or grill—to measure the temperature can result in an erroneous reading. For an accurate reading, insert the thermometer into the protein as it cooks on the heat source. After verifying the temperature, remove the thermometer from the meal.
3. To measure the temperature of a large piece of meat, insert the thermometer probe through the thickest part of the meat, being careful to avoid any bones, fat, or gristle. Allow the thermometer to register the temperature in the meat for about 10 seconds. (After verifying the temperature, remove the thermometer from the food.) The core of the meat must be at a safe minimum temperature.
4. Check the quick digital readout after gauging the temperature with a digital thermometer to determine the doneness of your dish. If you are using an analogue thermometer, check the reading by looking at the tiny hand on the dial of the display. Continue cooking and checking the temperature of your food until it reaches the minimum safe temperature standards if it hasn’t already.
