How To Use A Meat Thermometer

A meat thermometer is a simple kitchen tool to use. Check out the following steps to get an accurate reading every time:

Check your thermometer

The best way to test it is to place it in a glass of ice water. Make sure the thermometer doesn’t touch the bottom or sides of the glass and hold it there for 30 seconds. After 30 seconds, check the reading on the thermometer.

If it says 32°F, then it is accurate, and you can use it confidently. Otherwise, you may need to adjust its calibration or get a new thermometer altogether.

Clean the tip of the meat thermometer before each use.

Before using a meat thermometer, it is essential to clean the device to prevent the spread of bacteria. A few simple steps can be taken to clean the thermometer correctly.

First, rinse the thermometer under hot water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, use a mild soap or sanitizer to disinfect the thermometer’s tip.

Finally, dry the thermometer with a clean cloth or paper towel. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that your meat thermometer is ready for safe and accurate use.

Insert the thermometer into the meat

When cooking meat, it is important to use a thermometer to ensure it is adequately cooked. The CDC provides a breakdown of recommended cooking temperatures for various types of meat on its website.

For the most accurate readings, insert the tip of the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, away from any bones. For example, if you are cooking a roast, insert it into the center of the roast.

When cooking chicken breasts, insert them into the thickest part of the breast. Ensure the thermometer doesn’t touch any fat or gristle, as this can throw off the reading.

For the temperature to register, leave the thermometer in the meat for around 10 seconds. (After verifying the temperature range, take the thermometer out of the food.)

These simple steps will help ensure that you have food safety and your meat is cooked properly.

Read the thermometer

After you have inserted the thermometer into the meat, wait 10 seconds and then check the reading. If the meat is cooked to the correct temperature, it is safe to eat.

Otherwise, continue cooking the meat until it reaches the correct temperature. It is important to note that different types of meat should be cooked at different temperatures.

The following is a list of recommended cooking temperatures for various types of meat, courtesy of the CDC:

• Beef, pork, veal, lamb: 145°F (3 minutes of resting time is required before carving or consuming the meat)
• All Poultry and precooked meats: 165°F
• Fish: 145°F
• Hamburgers and ground beef: 160°F

Following these simple steps, you can use a meat thermometer to safely and properly cook your meat.